Few places spoil dogs and humans like Southern Idaho. Here, mornings begin with canyon rim walks above the Snake River and end on pet-approved patios with sunset views. Between the waterfalls, high-desert trails and small-town hospitality, you’ll find a region that rolls out the welcome mat and water bowl for two- and four-legged travelers. Here’s a roundup of the best pet-friendly places to play, eat and stay in southern Idaho.
SCENIC PLACES TO WALK & DIP YOUR PAWS
Snake River Canyon | Twin Falls
Get ready for panoramic views and photo-worthy overlooks of the iconic Snake River Canyon along the paved Snake River Canyon Rim Trail. Start at the Twin Falls Visitor Center and wind past waterfalls, scenic viewpoints and the Perrine Bridge—where BASE jumpers parachute into the canyon below. Down inside the gorge, Centennial Waterfront Park offers shaded picnic areas and shoreline coves perfect for on-leash paw-dipping. Just downstream, Auger Falls Heritage Park features a wide loop trail through rocky cliffs and sagebrush flats, with shallow river inlets where dogs can cool off on warm days.
Snake River Canyon, near Twin Falls | Photo: Visit Idaho
Rock Creek Park | Twin Falls
Follow the gentle curves of Rock Creek on this dog-friendly jaunt just minutes from downtown. Leashed dogs are welcome along the park’s paved and gravel trails, which trace the path of the creek through shady cottonwoods and across footbridges. Picnic areas and creekside pull-offs offer relaxing spots to take a break, making this a favorite among locals for casual strolls and short nature walks.
Thousand Springs State Park | near Hagerman
This scenic state park spans several units along the Snake River, offering a variety of leashed-dog-friendly trails with views. At Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, a rugged two-mile hike leads to a turquoise pool and a 30-foot waterfall. Ritter Island offers a mellow, two-mile dirt loop through meadows and along the river, with views of spring channels and restored farm buildings (open late May through early fall). For an easygoing stroll, Billingsley Creek provides wide, tree-lined trails alongside a spring-fed stream. Note: Visitors must pay a $7 day-use fee to access the park.
Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, near Wendell | Photo: Visit Idaho
South Hills | near Twin Falls
About an hour south of Twin Falls, the aptly named South Hills offer a refreshing change from southern Idaho’s high-desert terrain with forested slopes and cooler air. Leash up and explore short-to-intermediate trails like Ross Falls, Eagle Loop and Third Fork, all offering shaded escapes from the summer heat.
Ross Falls Trail in the South Hills, near Twin Falls | Photo: Visit Idaho
City of Rocks National Reserve | near Almo
About two hours southeast of Twin Falls, City of Rocks National Reserve offers wide-open skies and striking geology, where you can explore towering granite spires and historic wagon routes. Leashed dogs are allowed on all trails, and entry is free year-round. For overflow or quieter options, the adjacent Castle Rocks State Park offers similar scenery and also welcomes leashed pets. Note: Visitors must pay a $7 day-use fee to access the park.
City of Rocks National Reserve, near Almo | Photo: Visit Idaho
PET-FRIENDLY PATIOS TO EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY
Twin Beans Coffee Company | Twin Falls
Start the day at this downtown coffeehouse known for its house-roasted beans, hearty breakfast sandwiches and outdoor tables where dogs are welcome.
Koto Brewing Co. | Downtown Twin Falls
This brewery and restaurant offers a seasonal dog-friendly patio and a rotating lineup of house beers. Enjoy Idaho-inspired dishes, such as the smoked brisket sandwich or fish tacos, while your pup relaxes nearby.
Koto Brewing Co., Twin Falls | Photo: Visit Idaho
Anchor Bistro & Sports Bar | Twin Falls
A casual and lively choice for evening dining, Anchor Bistro welcomes dogs on its spacious patio and serves up burgers, wraps and regional beers.
Morey’s Steakhouse | Burley
Situated along the Snake River, Morey’s Steakhouse features a large patio where leashed dogs can join their owners. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal after exploring the Burley riverfront.
PLACES TO STAY WITH YOUR PUP
Hilton Garden Inn | Twin Falls
Travelers seeking a touch of comfort will appreciate this hotel’s spacious rooms, on-site restaurant and grassy areas for short walks. Two pets of any size are allowed for a nightly fee, making it a convenient and welcoming base for exploring the canyon rim.
Snake River Canyon Rim Trail, Twin Falls | Photo: Visit Idaho
My Place Hotel | Twin Falls
Ideal for extended stays, My Place Hotel features in-room kitchenettes, easy ground-floor access and quick routes to downtown dining. The hotel welcomes dogs weighing up to 80 pounds for a modest nightly fee and is recognized for its friendly staff and clean, practical accommodations.
Best Western Sawtooth Inn & Suites | Jerome
Set just off Interstate 84, the Best Western Sawtooth Inn & Suites offers a blend of convenience and comfort. Guests can bring up to two pets, weighing up to 80 pounds per room, for a small additional fee. The property’s hot breakfast and indoor pool make it a favorite among road-trippers.
Perrine-Coulee Falls view from Centennial Waterfront Park, near Twin Falls | Photo: Visit Idaho
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Southern Idaho’s high-desert climate means summers are hot and dry, and winters are cold and snowy, so preparation is key when visiting with your dog:
- Carry waste bags and plenty of water for you and your pup.
- Keep dogs leashed at all locations unless signage indicates otherwise.
- Avoid walking on pavement during peak summer heat to protect those paws.
- Pet policies, patio hours and trail access can change with the seasons, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm that four-legged friends are still welcome.
Plan your next dog-friendly getaway at VisitSouthIdaho.com.