Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalks or trails at Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park. This is primarily for safety reasons. The hydrothermal features in the park, including Old Faithful, have temperatures that are near boiling point and can cause serious injury or even death if someone were to fall into them. Therefore, to ensure the safety of both visitors and their pets, dogs are not permitted in these areas.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the spectacular show that Old Faithful puts on with your furry friend. While you may not be able to get up close and personal with the geyser, there are still plenty of vantage points from which you can view it with your dog. There are designated viewing areas and overlooks where you can witness the eruption of Old Faithful from a safe distance.
One option is to watch Old Faithful from the Old Faithful Inn. This iconic lodge offers a fantastic view of the geyser from its upper floors and even has a viewing platform on the roof. You can take turns enjoying the show while one person stays with your dog and then switch off so everyone gets a chance to see it.
Another option is to view Old Faithful from the surrounding trails. There are several trails in the area that offer views of the geyser from a distance. While dogs are not allowed on these trails, you can still hike them on your own and then return to your dog to watch Old Faithful erupt. This way, you can still experience the beauty and power of the geyser while ensuring the safety of your pet.
It’s important to note that Yellowstone National Park does have designated pet-friendly areas where dogs are allowed. These areas include campgrounds, parking lots, and certain roads. So, even though your dog may not be able to accompany you on the boardwalks or trails near Old Faithful, you can still enjoy other parts of the park together.
While dogs are not allowed on the boardwalks or trails near Old Faithful for safety reasons, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the geyser with your furry friend. Whether it’s watching from the Old Faithful Inn or viewing from a distance on surrounding trails, you can still treat yourselves to the awe-inspiring sight of Old Faithful while keeping your pet safe.