Phoenix summers are brutal for pets. Asphalt burns paws. Cars turn into ovens in minutes. The usual dog-friendly options — a hotel room and a patch of parking lot grass — aren't much of a vacation for anyone.
Munds Park, Arizona solves that problem in a way that's hard to find anywhere else in the Southwest. At 7,000 feet in the world's largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest, summer highs top out in the low 80s, the ground stays cool, and there are actual forest trails to walk instead of sidewalks. Two hours north of Phoenix via I-17, it's far enough to feel like a real escape and close enough to not require a flight.
If you're traveling with a dog (or two), here's everything you need to know about making Munds Park your base camp.
Why Munds Park Works So Well for Pet-Friendly Travel
Most "pet-friendly" travel options feel like an afterthought — a small fee, a designated patch of grass, and a reminder that your dog can't go anywhere the humans go. Munds Park is different for a few reasons.
The temperature. In July and August, when Phoenix is sitting at 110°F, Munds Park is in the low 80s during the day and drops into the 50s at night. That means your dog can actually walk around without risk of heat exhaustion. Morning hikes, afternoon lounging on the deck, evening walks through the forest — all of it is comfortable and safe.
The terrain. The Coconino National Forest surrounds the community on all sides. There are over 100 miles of trails accessible directly from the park, most of them shaded pine forest paths rather than exposed desert scrambles. Dogs can stay on leash and still feel like they're actually exploring.
The space. A cabin gives your pet room to move in a way that a hotel room simply doesn't. A yard, a deck, open space. Your dog gets a real vacation too.
Pet-Friendly Cabins in Munds Park
Sherry's Munds Park Cabins has two pet-friendly vacation rentals that sit directly in the heart of the community.
Bluejay Getaway
Sleeps 12 | 4 bedrooms, 3 baths | Pets welcome
Bluejay Getaway is the right choice for large groups traveling with dogs. It sleeps 12 comfortably across four bedrooms, with a full kitchen, game room, wraparound deck, and a fire pit for evenings in the pines. The outdoor space is generous — enough room for your pet to explore and decompress without being cooped up.
The cabin is a Superhost property on Airbnb, 30 minutes from Flagstaff and 45 minutes from Sedona. Groups who want a central base for day trips while keeping their dogs comfortable find it hits every requirement.
Book Bluejay Getaway at SherrysMundsParkCabins.com
Munds Park Cozy Cabin
Sleeps 9 | 4 bedrooms, 2 baths | Pets welcome
Munds Park Cozy Cabin has the kind of stone fireplace and forested deck views that make everyone in the group — humans and dogs included — want to stay another night. Four bedrooms, sleeps 9, with outdoor spaces on multiple levels and pine forest in every direction.
Smaller groups traveling with pets find Cozy Cabin a perfect fit. Same location, same forest access, same cool mountain air.
Book Munds Park Cozy Cabin at SherrysMundsParkCabins.com
Dog-Friendly Activities Near Munds Park
Crystal Point Trail and Odell Lake Loop
The most popular hike in the community, Crystal Point Trail runs 2.1 miles one way through dense ponderosa pine with panoramic views from the top. The full Odell Lake Loop adds up to 4.6 miles and includes Odell Lake — a 26-acre reservoir tucked in the forest where you can spot waterfowl and let your dog cool off near the water.
Dogs must be on leash on National Forest trails. Bring water for them — the altitude and dry air dehydrate dogs faster than many owners expect.
Trailhead: Iron Springs trailhead, accessible within Munds Park community.
Munds Canyon Trail
For a longer, wilder hike, Munds Canyon Trail No. 240 runs deeper into the Coconino National Forest. Forested terrain, minimal crowds, and the kind of quiet that makes the whole trip worth it. Dogs are welcome on leash. More info at Coconino National Forest.
Nearby Flagstaff (30 minutes north)
Flagstaff has a strong dog-friendly culture. The downtown core has multiple outdoor restaurant patios that welcome leashed dogs. Buffalo Park — 213 acres of open land at 7,000 feet — allows dogs on leash and has sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks. On cooler mornings, the Kachina Trail through the aspens below Humphreys Peak is one of the better dog walks in the state.
Sedona (45 minutes south)
Note that several Sedona trails and state parks have restrictions or fees that vary by season. Slide Rock State Park does not allow dogs on the swimming portion of the creek. However, many of the forest service trails around Sedona (Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Broken Arrow) allow leashed dogs. Check current rules before you go, as regulations can change year to year.
Tips for Traveling with Pets to Munds Park
Pack for altitude. At 7,000 feet, both humans and dogs tire faster on the first day. Plan for a slower start — a morning walk rather than a full hike — and watch your dog for signs of fatigue.
Bring water for the trail. Streams near Munds Park are not reliably present on most trails, especially in summer. Carry more water than you think you'll need for both of you.
Watch for wildlife. The Coconino National Forest is home to mule deer, elk, coyotes, and the occasional black bear. Keep your dog leashed and close on trails, especially at dawn and dusk.
Nights are cold. Even in July, evenings drop into the 50s at 7,000 feet. Smaller dogs and short-haired breeds may need a layer for evening fire pit time.
Don't leave pets in vehicles. Even at 7,000 feet, a parked car in direct afternoon sun gets dangerously hot quickly. Plan your stops so your dog stays with the group.
When to Go
Summer (June through August) is the most popular season for pet-friendly cabin trips from Phoenix. The contrast from valley heat is dramatic and the trails are at their best. Fall (September through November) brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the beginning of golden light in the pines — one of the most beautiful times to be in Munds Park.
Both cabins book out quickly for summer, so checking availability early is worth the two minutes it takes.
Where to Book
Both Bluejay Getaway and Munds Park Cozy Cabin are available at SherrysMundsParkCabins.com. Sherry and Mike are Airbnb Superhosts with years of experience hosting groups, families, and pet-owners in Munds Park. Both properties are available for direct booking.
If summer dates are full, fall availability opens up for September and October — some of the best months to be in the mountains with your dog.
Questions about bringing your pet? Check the listing details at SherrysMundsParkCabins.com or reach out through the booking platform.
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