Best Dog Parks in and Around Salt Lake City
Parley’s Historic Nature Park, also known as Tanner Park, offers plenty of spots for running, exploration, and water play.
Utah is famous for its incredible hiking opportunities, but sometimes you just need a dedicated, safe space where your dog can run free. Whether you’re looking for a shady retreat, a spot for your pup to splash in the water, or a wide-open field to burn off energy, Salt Lake City dog parks and the surrounding areas have plenty to offer.
Here are our top picks for the best dog parks near Salt Lake City, Utah:
Tanner Park (Parley’s Historic Nature Park)
📍 2760 Heritage Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84109
❌ Not Fenced | 💧 Creek Water Only | 🌳 Shade Available | 🅿 Small Parking Lot & Residential Parking
Why we love it: Nestled at the mouth of Parley’s Canyon, Tanner Park offers a beautiful setting for a leashed walk or a semi-wild off-leash adventure down the canyon trail. A creek runs through the area, providing plenty of spots for cooling off, including a natural swimming hole at the far end where dogs can take a deep plunge. This park is a longtime local favorite for quick nature escapes within city limits, so while there’s plenty of room to spread out, it can get crowded at peak times. If your pup gets overwhelmed by meeting lots of new dogs at once, this may not be the best spot.
Pro Tip: Tanner Park is a stunning spot for sunrise and sunset walks—just be prepared for your dog to get wet and a little dirty, so bring a towel.
Cottonwood Dog Park
📍 1580 W North Star Dr 300 North, Salt Lake City, UT 84116
✅ Fenced | 💧 Water Available | 🌳 Shade Available | 🅿 Plentiful Parking
Why we love it: Cottonwood Dog Park is a spacious, year-round favorite for off-leash play. Mature trees provide shade in the summer, while grassy areas help minimize mud in the winter. Picnic tables and a paved path make it accessible and easy to enjoy. The entrance is on the west side of the park, and while it can be tricky to find the first time, the wide open space is worth it. Locals are friendly and often leave behind shared tennis balls, and there is a water fountain and community water bowls to keep pups hydrated. Plus, its location along the Jordan River Parkway makes it a great starting point for a post-park stroll or bike ride.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience, and bring a towel just in case your dog gets wet. Some visitors note that the surrounding area can feel a little sketchy, so stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying the park.
Memory Grove Dog Park
📍 300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
❌ Not Fenced | 💧 Creek Water Only | 🌳 Shade Available | 🅿 Limited Parking
Why we love it: Tucked just north of downtown and near the Utah State Capitol, Memory Grove Park is a beautiful escape from city life right in downtown SLC. While the Memorial side of the park requires dogs to be leashed, you can access an off-leash trail that offers a mix of sun and shade along City Creek Canyon. The path follows a creek, making it a scenic and refreshing experience for your dog, though it can get crowded (particularly on weekends), so it’s best for dogs who love socializing with other dogs (and NOT a good spot for games like fetch).
Pro Tip: Be cautious during spring runoff when water levels rise; the currents can sweep a dog over waterfalls or downstream.
Rotary Glen Dog Park
📍 2850 E Emigration Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT, US, 84108
✅ Partially Fenced | 💧 Water Available | 🌳 Shade Available | 🅿 Plentiful Parking
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a less crowded dog park in the Salt Lake City area, Rotary Glen may be just the spot. Nestled at the entrance of Emigration Canyon, this hidden gem offers a quiet retreat for dog owners and their furry friends. With approximately 2 acres of open space, the park is surrounded by canyon walls, creating a scenic and peaceful setting to run and play. A well-maintained gravel walking path makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll while your dog explores. Whether you’re after a peaceful escape from the city or a scenic spot to toss a ball, Rotary Glen has it all.
Pro Tip: Bring water for your pup, and consider combining your visit with a hike along the nearby Emigration Canyon trails for a full outdoor adventure.
Fairmont Park Dog Park
📍 1104 S Ashton Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
✅ Fully Fenced | 💧 Water Fountain | 🌳 Shade & Seating | 🅿 Parking | 🌙 Evening Lighting
Why we love it: Fairmont Park Dog Park is a safe, well-designed off-leash space featuring both grass and gravel areas, catering to dogs of all sizes. Play obstacles keep energetic pups entertained, while shaded seating makes it comfortable for owners. With water fountains, free poop bags, a double-gated entrance, and lighting for evening visits, it’s one of the most convenient and popular dog parks in Salt Lake City.
Run-A-Muk Dog Park (Park City)
📍 3399 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098
✅ Fenced (Minor Weak Spots) | ❌ No Water | ❌ No Shade | 🅿 Plentiful Parking
Why we love it: Run-A-Muk is a 43-acre off-leash park that feels more like a nature reserve than a typical dog park. Featuring a two-mile trail, it’s ideal for adventurous pups who need to burn off extra energy, practice recall, and explore wide-open space. Owners can enjoy the serenity of wildlife and the outdoors while letting their dogs roam freely. With multiple trailheads and plenty of parking, it’s perfect for a day trip—plan to check out some dog-friendly dining and sights in Park City while you’re there. Be mindful of cleaning up after your dog, as waste can be easy to overlook in such a large area.
Pro Tip: Bring water for your pup, and avoid visiting right after a snowmelt—it can get very muddy.
Willow Creek Dog Park (Park City)
📍 4460 Split Rail Ln, Park City, UT 84098
✅ Fenced | 💧 Water Available (Pond) | ☀ Minimal Shade | 🅿 Plentiful Parking
Why we love it: This Park City gem is a must-visit for dogs who love to swim! The fully fenced pond features a dock for jumping practice, and adjacent fenced areas include separate sections for large and small dogs—perfect for drying off after a swim. Agility obstacles and a mix of grassy and soft-surface areas keep active pups engaged. Willow Creek also connects to paved and soft-surface trails for on-leash walks. Be aware that it can get muddy in the winter as snow melts, so plan accordingly.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to signs identifying areas where dogs must remain on-leash when entering and exiting trails and dog park areas.
In Conclusion: Salt Lake City is a Dog Lover’s Paradise
Salt Lake City has it all for dogs—shaded neighborhood parks, mountain trails, and wide-open spaces, plus quick escapes to the mountains of Park City for even more adventure. Whether your pup loves chasing a ball, splashing in a creek, or exploring scenic trails, there’s a perfect park waiting for you. With so many options nearby, every day can be a fun-filled adventure for you and your furry friend!
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