Dog-Friendly

Hiking with your Dog

Hitting the trails with our furry companions offers many benefits including improved overall health and improved pet behavior. Fortunately for us, Big Sky is a massive outdoor playground for owners and dogs alike. Here are our favorite dog-friendly trails and areas in Big Sky.

 

Dog-friendly Big Sky Hikes:

  1. South Fork Loop** - 1-mile round trip –  This is a perfect family hike, especially if you have younger children.  Also known as the Storybook trail, this timbered loop runs alongside the South Fork of the West Fork of the Gallatin River, providing a good source of water during the summer heat. In the winter, this trail is groomed for Nordic skiing. 
  2. Little Willow Way** - 1.6-mile round trip – Looking for something easy yet scenic? Little Willow Way is a local favorite as it is flat and a well-maintained gravel path—perfect for older dogs! This trail starts in the Big Sky Community Park and follows the West Fork of the Gallatin River. 
  3. Hummocks Trail** - 3 miles round trip - Hummocks trail is a series of three loops through forests and meadows that can be shortened to adjust for time constraints. This trail offers both water and shade.  Hummocks tends to be quite popular due to its close location to town center. 
  4. Beehive Basin Trail - 6.6 miles round trip -  If you're looking for a big hike with your active dog, this trail in the Custer Gallatin National Forest should be on your list.  In peak season, Beehive can be fairly busy.  However, in the end you'll be rewarded with amazing views, and your dog will love the fresh alpine lake. 
  5. Huff's Trek** - 3.3 miles one way - This easy gravel path runs alongside a dirt-surfaced, forest road.  Its open space makes it a great trail for not only hikers but for those who enjoy biking alongside their pet.  Please note: this trail is groomed for Nordic skiing in the winter but is not open to dogs. 
  6. Cinnamon Mountain Trail - 8.5-mile round trip – If you’re looking for a big day with your pet and to break a sweat, make your way to the Cinnamon Mountain Trail located 10.5 miles south of Big Sky. With a 2,600-foot elevation increase, this trail will give you and your pup a great workout alongside the beautiful landscape. Make sure to bring an adequate supply of water as well as bear spray.

**These trails are maintained by the Big Sky Community Organization with the help of local donations.  If you are a frequent user of these trails, consider giving back and/or donating. 

Be Aware: Dogs are not allowed to hike in Yellowstone National Park. Be aware of where the park boundary begins (about 14 miles south of Big Sky) so that you don't get ticketed!

 

Hiking with your Dog

Rules of the Trail

Nothing ruins the trail experience faster than poorly behaved pets and owners. Be a good neighbor and visitor by adhering to the following rules:

Proper Etiquette:

  • Keep your dog safe. Be aware of hazards - deadfalls, rocks, river crossings, other animals, other dogs, hunters.
  • Maintain control of your pet at all times. Ensure that your dog is on leash or on voice command.
  • Remember that other people don't love dogs as much as you do - especially kids.
  • Other dogs may not enjoy your pet either.  Maintain control and leash your dog if necessary. 
  • Obey all trailhead signage including dog rules and open/closure signs. 
  • Pick up and dispose of your pet's poop. 
  • Yield to horses at all times and maintain control of your pet. 
  • Bring all the necessary things for your dog - water, collar, leash, pack, poop bags, first aid kit, treats, and food.
  • Know your pet's limit and be aware of weather conditions. 
  • Be Bear aware, especially during more active times of the year including the spring and fall. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.