Traveling to Monument Valley With Pets: Park Rules and Pet Policy
Last verified July 10, 2026 by the Wetherill Inn front desk: Pet policies may vary. Please call us directly at 928-697-3231 to discuss bringing your pet.
Planning to bring your dog to Monument Valley? Two things to know up front: dogs are not allowed on the Scenic Drive or trails inside the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (service animals aside), and you will want a pet-friendly place to stay in nearby Kayenta. This guide covers the park’s pet rules and how to plan a trip to Monument Valley with pets in 2026.
- Dogs in the park: Not permitted on the Scenic Drive, trails, or tours (service animals excepted)
- Why: Navajo Tribal Park rules protect wildlife, livestock, and sacred sites
- Wildcat Trail: No dogs, even leashed
- Plan for: A pet-friendly room in Kayenta and never leaving a pet in a hot car
Last updated: July 2026. Confirm park pet rules before visiting.
Can you bring dogs to Monument Valley?
Generally no. The Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park does not allow dogs on the 17-mile Scenic Drive, on the Wildcat Trail, or on guided tours. The Navajo Nation restricts pets to protect free-range livestock, wildlife, and culturally sensitive areas. Trained service animals are treated differently under the law, but emotional support animals are not the same category, so confirm ahead if this applies to you.
What that means for your visit
Because you cannot take your dog into the park, plan for a pet to stay at your hotel during park hours. Desert heat makes leaving a dog in a vehicle dangerous and potentially deadly, so this is not a place to improvise. The practical approach is a pet-friendly room in Kayenta, park visits while your dog rests in a cool room, and walks in town before and after.
Staying at Wetherill Inn with a pet
Pet policies at Wetherill Inn may vary, so please call us directly at 928-697-3231 to discuss bringing your pet before you book. We are on Main Street in Kayenta, 22 miles (25 minutes) from the park, with room to walk your dog around town morning and evening.
Tips for road-tripping the Southwest with a dog
- Carry plenty of water; desert dehydration is fast.
- Walk on shaded or grassy surfaces; midday pavement and slickrock burn paws.
- Plan park visits for cooler morning hours and keep them shorter.
- Note that many tribal and national park trails in the region restrict pets, so build in town breaks.
Traveling With a Pet? Call the Front Desk
We are happy to talk through your plans. Call 928-697-3231 or check availability at Wetherill Inn, 25 minutes from Monument Valley.
Frequently asked questions
Are dogs allowed in Monument Valley?
No. Dogs are not permitted on the Scenic Drive, the Wildcat Trail, or guided tours in the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Trained service animals are handled separately under the law.
Can I leave my dog in the car at Monument Valley?
No. Desert heat makes this dangerous and potentially fatal. Plan to leave your pet in a cool hotel room in Kayenta during park visits instead.
Are there pet-friendly hotels in Kayenta, AZ?
Call Wetherill Inn at 928-697-3231 to confirm current pet accommodations. Because options in town are limited, always confirm the pet policy before booking.
Source: Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation — Monument Valley (park rules and pet restrictions).