Park City officials released updated trail guidelines on Wednesday to help maintain the community's dog-friendly status while ensuring the safety of hikers, bikers, and skiers. These updated protocols emphasize strict adherence to leash laws and waste removal to protect the local ecosystem and prevent trail erosion.
Maintaining Trail Integrity
The guidelines, released Aug. 6, 2026, by Park City Trails, highlight a community that remains highly dog-friendly but requires active responsibility from owners to preserve off-leash access. While the city offers numerous fenced dog parks and specific off-leash trails, officials warned that certain areas remain strictly off-limits to pets due to watershed protections or specific trail use designations.
To maintain these amenities, the organization urged pet owners to follow the 'leave no trace' principle. This includes traveling only on marked trails and using durable surfaces to prevent environmental damage. Officials noted that improper trail use, such as riding fat bikes or mountain bikes on soft ground, can create ruts that lead to costly trail repairs and erosion.
Waste Removal and Responsibility
A central focus of the updated guidance is the management of pet waste. Park City Trails clarified that the city does not have a 'poop fairy' to handle animal waste, and owners are expected to remove all waste regardless of where it is deposited.
Even if a dog moves off the main path into thick vegetation, the owner is responsible for retrieving the waste. The organization cautioned against leaving 'doggie bags' on the sides of trails, noting that these bags are frequently forgotten and left to rot. To assist with this, trash receptacles are often positioned roughly 100 yards up from a trailhead, but owners are encouraged to carry extra waste removal bags to ensure they can clean up anywhere.
Safety and Liability Risks
Safety concerns regarding leash laws were also addressed, particularly for multi-use trails. Officials warned that off-leash dogs can become confused by the presence of bikers and skiers, which can lead to significant injuries for people, animals, or equipment.
Owners were advised to leash their dogs immediately upon entering any trailhead parking lot to prevent pets from harassing others, getting hit by vehicles, or sneaking away while owners are distracted. The guidelines also noted that owners may face legal liability for damages or injuries caused by their pets, stating that a dog owner found in violation of leash laws could be sued.
Wildlife and Social Interaction
The current guidelines also include specific instructions for interacting with local wildlife. To ensure that off-leash zones remain available, pet owners must leash their dogs immediately if they encounter wildlife. The guidelines explicitly state that owners should keep their distance and must not allow their pets to chase or play with animals.
Park City Trails emphasized that owners must remain aware of and in control of their dogs at all times, noting that not all dogs respond to other dogs in the same manner. This level of control is vital to prevent unexpected behaviors, such as biting, which can occur if a dog becomes nervous.
A History of Dog Etiquette
These guidelines build upon a long-standing effort to balance recreation and conservation in the area. As far back as March 27, 2025, local resources were already educating residents and visitors on dog etiquette and the importance of connecting with nature responsibly.
Park City remains a community where pet owners can find a variety of options, including seasonal trails that change with the weather. For example, locations like Summit Park, Discovery, and North Basin offer different amenities during the summer, while locations like Skyridge and Clark Ranch provide options during the winter months.
Compliance and Future Access
For those seeking specific legal details, the guidelines point to the Park City Municipal Code and the Summit County, Utah, County Code for information regarding animal control laws.
Ultimately, the city's goal is to ensure that the community remains a place where both humans and pets can enjoy the outdoors. By following posted signs and respecting the rules of specific trails, pet owners help ensure that off-leash zones remain available for future use.
