Dogs on Trails

Q: Why is Grand Ridge important as a natural area?
A: Grand Ridge Park was established in part as a sanctuary for native plants and animals.  Bears, cougars, bobcats, deer and many other species live and raise their young within the 1,100 acres of forest land that comprise the park.  They are just as startled by dogs running down the trail as hikers are when walking with their children.

Q: My dog is very well behaved.  Does he need to be on a leash?
A: Your dog may be well trained but others may not.  Dog fights can be avoided when all dogs are leashed.  Few dogs will “stay” or “come” when a deer runs by.  Off leash dogs have become a more significant problem in recent years due to increase park usage.

Q: I have heard that it is alright for my dog to be off leash if he is under voice control.  Is that true at Grand Ridge Park?
A: Within King County Parks, Marymoor Park is the only park where there are areas designated for dogs off leash.  Dogs in these designated areas must be accompanied by their owner and be under vocal control.

Q: I don’t see any one here.  Why do I need to have a leash on my dog?
A: Even though you think you are the only one around there are a variety of wild animals that make Grand Ridge Park their home, most notable being Black Bear.  Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife states in their Living with Wildlife brochure on Black Bears:
“Avoid hiking with dogs.  Dogs may disturb bears and lead them back to you”.  They simply state in their brochure on Cougars: “Leave Rover” at home when camping or hiking.

Q: Why must my dog be on a leash?
A: KC Ordinance 7.12.410 states “dogs and other pets or domesticated animals must be kept on a leash no greater than fifteen feet in length, and under control at all times.  Any person whose dog or other pet is in any King County park area shall be responsible for the conduct of the animal and for removing feces deposited by such animal from the park area.”  Failure to keep dogs on a leash is an infraction.  Any person found guilty of committing an infraction shall be assessed a monetary penalty not to exceed $500.00.

If you have any question please contact Parks staff at 206-205-3067.
Thank you and enjoy your visit!