national hiking trails dog info

Pony Express National Historic Trail

Located from the state of California to Missouri

The Pony Express was a mail service delivering messages, newspapers, and mail. Officially operating as the Leavenworth and Pike's Peak Express Company of 1859, in 1860 it became the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company; this firm was founded by William H. Russell, Alexander Majors, and William B. Waddell, all of whom were notable in the freighting business. During its 19 months of operation, it reduced the time for messages to travel between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts to about 10 days. From April 3, 1860 to October 1861, it became the West's most direct means of east-west communication before the telegraph was established and was vital for tying the new state of California with the rest of the United States.

  • Pets are generally allowed on most trails and exterior areas that do not conflict with an adjoining area such as a National Park
  • Parking areas and along paved roads
  • Some campgrounds and picnic areas
  • Must be restrained or kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
  • Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times
  • Pick up after your dog at all times – Leave no trace

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Inside buildings (unless service animal)
  • pets are not permitted in historic homes, in visitor centers, or on ranger-led programs.
  • Never leave your pet unattended or alone inside a vehicle
  • Never off leash – unless inside a vehicle, tent, dog crate or other portable kennel
  • Untagged dogs or dogs with uncurrent tags
  • Excessive barking

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Extreme range of weather
  • Extreme heat
  • Venomous Snakes
  • Poisonous Plants
  • Spiny and prickly plants
  • Predatory animals
  • Be aware of animal traps and hunting areas
  • Swim safely, extreme water areas
  • Ticks and biting insects
  • Do not drink from waterways
  • Bring plenty of drinking water

Leash Laws: Most parks require dogs to be on a leash in some or all areas, however, some parks allow dogs off leash in certain locations, please consult the parks website before going off leash, Thank you!

  • Consult the park website before traveling all information is to be used as a guide.
  • Respect local wildlife.
  • Leave no trace – What you bring in, you bring out.
  • If you are visiting during the hottest months of the year, a “palm test” is recommended before walking your dog – place your hand on the pavement for a minute and see if it is comfortable there. If the pavement feels hot to your palm, it will be hot to your dog’s paws.

(801) 741-1012

Pony Express National Historic Trail Website

Pony Express National Historic Trail Camping

Pony Express National Historic Trail Hiking

Pony Express National Historic Trail Volunteer

We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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