Tonto Dog Policy
Tonto National Monument is Dog Friendly
Tonto National Monument preserves two cliff dwellings, and a museum with pottery, woven cloth, and other artifacts.
Tonto National Monument is fairly dog friendly. Dogs are allowed on most trails (see below). Dogs are not allowed inside buildings at the Visitor Center or the Museum, and not allowed inside the actual Cliff Dwellings. Please note that temperatures can rise quickly here, so make sure you have plenty of water for your dog, don't leave your dog unattended, and make sure your dog's paws aren't too hot.
Tonto National Monument also participates in the BARK Ranger Program where you and your dog can earn a special dog tag for learning and following the rules of the park (see the BARK Ranger section below).
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/tont/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/tont/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Annual Visitors
- 24,756
Trail Policy
Dogs are allowed on most trails while on a leash no longer than 6'.
Dogs are allowed on the following trails:
- Lower Cliff Dwelling Trail
- Cactus Patch Trail
Dogs are not allowed on the Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail.
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
For more information on the Bark Ranger program, please see: https://www.nps.gov/tont/planyourvisit/pets.htm
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
Please tell us if you think there’s anything we should add or change on this page.