Top Dog Parks in Western Montana

With breathtaking vistas of the Rocky Mountains, expansive forests filled with Ponderosa pine, Aspen and Rocky Mountain Douglas-fir and the occasional bear, moose, elk or coyote sighting, Western Montana is home to many beautiful areas that are also dog-friendly. Highlighted here are just a few of the top dog parks you can explore with your pup in Big Sky Country.

Glacier National Park

Located in West Glacier, Glacier National Park allows dogs in certain areas of the park. One of the most important things to note is that your pup must be secured at all times, either on a leash no longer than 6 feet, caged, or under physical restraint. You and your pup can visit picnic areas, front country camping areas, and lakes where motorized crafts are allowed. Areas that are off-limits to dogs include any backcountry areas, hiking trails, buildings, or lakes along developed areas.

Image Source: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/openingplan.htm

Paws-to-Play Dog Park

Paws-to-Play Dog Park (Begg Park Dog Park) is a 6.24-acre park located in Kalispell that contains a 3.5-acre dog park. The park is divided into 2 fenced portions: one for smaller dogs and a larger one where your pup can stretch their legs. While the dog park opened in 2017, they continue to work to raise funds to add more features such as an ADA-compliant path, agility course and additional restrooms.

Image Source: https://www.pawstoplay.org/

Jacobs Island Bark Park

Residents of Missoula can enjoy the Jacobs Island Bark Park, which is located at the eastern edge of Jacob’s Island Park. Your pup can play safely in this area that features a fence on 3 sides and double gates. If your pup likes the water, you can access the Clark Fork River via the 4th, unfenced side.

Image Source: https://www.bringfido.com/attraction/2726

Hamilton Dog Park

The city of Hamilton has a dog park located next to the city’s waste water treatment facility. Hours of operation for April through September are 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM and October through March from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You will need to keep your pup leashed upon arriving and leaving the dog park. It should also be noted that your pup must have all current vaccinations and be licensed. You cannot bring goods into the dog park.

Image Source: https://www.bringfido.com/attraction/9798

Hugh Rogers WAG Park

The City of Whitefish partnered with the Whitefish Animal Group (WAG) to create the Hugh Rogers WAG Park. The park was named in honor of Dr. Hugh Rogers, a Whitefish veterinarian who was killed in a plane crash in 2009. The park features many amenities, including a dog wash station, an agility course, a pond with a dog beach, a drinking fountain for you and your pup, a community pavilion, and a small dog area.

Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/whitefishdogpark/