Ron LawnHiking with your dog is an incredible way to explore nature while spending quality time together. Whether you’re seeking the serenity of a forest, the challenge of a mountain, or the beauty of a coastal trail, there are countless scenic dog-friendly hiking trails across the country that will make your outdoor adventure unforgettable. These trails offer not only stunning vistas but also ample opportunities for you and your pup to bond in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a scenic and dog-friendly hiking experience, here’s a guide to some of the best trails to explore with your four-legged companion.
1. Acadia National Park – Maine
Trail: Jordan Pond Path
Acadia National Park, located in Maine, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and it’s one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the U.S. The Jordan Pond Path is an excellent hiking trail for both novice and experienced hikers and is ideal for dogs. The loop trail is about 3.3 miles long and offers scenic views of Jordan Pond, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests. Dogs are welcome on the trail, but they must remain on a leash at all times. The park has over 100 miles of dog-friendly trails, and many feature beautiful coastal vistas, making it a perfect destination for hikers with pets.
2. Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Trail: Limberlost Trail
If you’re looking for a peaceful trail in the Appalachian Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers some amazing options. The Limberlost Trail, a 1.3-mile loop, is a dog-friendly trail that takes you through a tranquil forest filled with rhododendrons, wildflowers, and towering trees. It’s a relatively easy hike with gentle terrain, making it perfect for dogs of all sizes. The park features over 200 miles of hiking trails, many of which are suitable for dogs. You and your pup will enjoy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lush forests, and serene streams along your hike. Dogs are allowed on all trails in Shenandoah, but they must be leashed.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee and North Carolina
Trail: Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is one of the few trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that allows dogs, and it’s a great choice for a scenic hike. This 1.9-mile trail follows the Little Pigeon River and offers beautiful views of the water, nearby forests, and wildlife. The trail is mostly flat, making it suitable for dogs of all fitness levels. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 70 miles of trails that are dog-friendly, although dogs are restricted from the backcountry and some higher-altitude areas. The Gatlinburg Trail, with its peaceful riverside setting, is a perfect introduction to the park for you and your dog.
4. Joshua Tree National Park – California
Trail: Hidden Valley Trail
For a unique desert landscape, Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent destination for hiking with your dog. The Hidden Valley Trail is a 1-mile loop that takes you through a rock-enclosed valley surrounded by iconic Joshua Trees. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it ideal for dogs. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the park’s otherworldly rock formations and desert flora. Dogs are welcome on all paved and dirt roads in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. If your pup enjoys the desert terrain, Joshua Tree is a must-visit destination.
5. Lake Tahoe – California/Nevada
Trail: Eagle Lake Trail
Lake Tahoe is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery. The Eagle Lake Trail is a relatively short, 2-mile round-trip hike that provides sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail is moderate in difficulty, making it an excellent option for both dogs and their owners to enjoy. Along the way, your dog will get a chance to explore the fragrant pine forests and enjoy the cool mountain air. Lake Tahoe has a variety of dog-friendly trails, and many of them offer stunning panoramic views, making it a popular hiking destination for dog lovers.
6. Zion National Park – Utah
Trail: Pa’rus Trail
Zion National Park in Utah is famous for its towering red rock formations and canyons, and the Pa’rus Trail is one of the park’s most dog-friendly trails. This 3.5-mile trail is paved, making it accessible for dogs of all sizes. The trail follows the Virgin River, offering spectacular views of Zion’s cliffs and natural beauty. This relatively easy hike provides a wonderful way to experience the park’s incredible landscapes while keeping your dog by your side. While Zion does have some restrictions for dogs (they are not allowed on most trails), the Pa’rus Trail is a great way to enjoy the park with your furry friend.
7. Banff National Park – Canada
Trail: Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail
Banff National Park is one of Canada’s most iconic national parks, and the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail is a must-hike for dog lovers. The trail is an easy, 2-mile path that runs along the stunning Lake Louise, with views of the surrounding mountains and the turquoise waters. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but they must be on a leash, and it’s important to note that Banff has regulations to protect wildlife, so dogs should be kept under control at all times. If you’re traveling to Banff with your dog, the park offers several pet-friendly trails, each providing spectacular natural beauty.
8. Mammoth Cave National Park – Kentucky
Trail: Green River Bluffs Trail
Mammoth Cave National Park offers some unique hiking opportunities, and the Green River Bluffs Trail is a scenic, dog-friendly option. This 2.6-mile loop trail winds through the park’s forested hills and offers beautiful views of the Green River below. The trail is moderately easy, with some elevation gain, and it’s a great choice for hikers looking for a peaceful, natural setting. Dogs are welcome on most of the park’s trails, but they must be on a leash. If you and your dog enjoy exploring caves, you can also visit the park’s famous Mammoth Cave, though dogs are not allowed inside the cave itself.
9. Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
Trail: Bear Lake Loop Trail
The Bear Lake Loop Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is a scenic, dog-friendly trail that takes you around Bear Lake with views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The trail is short, just 0.6 miles, and relatively flat, making it perfect for hikers with dogs of all abilities. While Rocky Mountain National Park offers many dog-friendly trails, it’s important to know that dogs are not allowed on the park’s backcountry trails or in the wilderness areas. However, Bear Lake Loop is an excellent way to experience the stunning mountain landscape with your pup.
10. Cape Cod National Seashore – Massachusetts
Trail: Great Island Trail
If you’re looking for a coastal hike, Cape Cod National Seashore offers stunning trails with views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Great Island Trail, a 4.5-mile out-and-back hike, takes you along the shoreline and through salt marshes, offering expansive views of the coastline. This trail is perfect for dogs who enjoy being near the water, and you’ll encounter plenty of spots for your dog to cool off and explore the beach. Dogs are allowed on most trails in the national seashore, but they must remain on a leash.
Tips for Hiking with Your Dog:
- Check Local Regulations: Always check specific trail and park regulations to ensure that dogs are allowed on the trail and what restrictions may apply (e.g., leash requirements, designated areas).
- Bring Water and Snacks: Make sure to bring enough water for both you and your dog, especially on longer hikes.
- Prepare for the Weather: Be mindful of the weather conditions—some trails may be too hot or too cold for your dog, especially during the summer or winter months.
- Keep Your Dog on a Leash: To ensure your dog’s safety and protect wildlife, keep your dog on a leash, even on off-leash trails.
Conclusion
Hiking with your dog is an enriching experience that allows you to bond while exploring nature together. From coastal paths to mountain trails, the U.S. and beyond offer a wealth of dog-friendly hiking trails, each providing unique and scenic views for both you and your dog to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, these trails offer the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure with your furry companion. So, grab your leash, pack your hiking gear, and hit the trail for your next dog-friendly hiking escapade!
