The Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in the US:
- Wild Dirt
- Apr 30, 2024
- 3 min read
Exploring Nature with Your Canine Companion
If hiking is one of your favorite things, wait until you discover it with your dog. Without forcing its tastes (and yours), getting lost among forests and lakes makes us happy, and doing it with someone who chases birds, checks on you from time to time and rubs in the dirt makes it even more special.
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” – John Muir
Indeed, we can only make as many plans as we'd like with them, as our pets are generally not allowed to enter (practically) anywhere. That's why we find guides like the one we bring you today so helpful: the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the US.
List of the Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in the US
Sweet home, Alabama! Now it is. This short-distance (0.6 miles) singletrack is the ideal trail for you and your pup. The course culminates at the highest point in the state: Bald Rock Outlook. There, you'll enjoy unbeatable views, and when you're done, you can take your dog to unwind at Bosarge Memorial Dog Park.
8 miles of rocky labyrinth canyons reminiscent of the alleys of Petra, in Jordan, will be the perfect setting to immortalize moments with your pet. Little Wild Horse Canyon traverse is moderate (depending on the difficulty you choose), but its narrowness makes you have to make sure your dog is leashed and able to open up between paths.
Salt spray, breeze and 200-foot-high sand dunes. This is undoubtedly another thing, so we're not surprised it's the quintessential California coastal hike. Except on the 12-acre closure and coastal trail north of the Horse Trail intersection, your dog won't have to be on a leash, but we recommend you keep it handy. And that's because the beach is a frequent scene for horses.
Back to the mountains again, and we leave this route to the more athletic dog (and owners). All trails lead to... Bear Peak. 4.7 miles, with 3,000 feet of elevation gain and multiple terrain challenges. But with views, you will want to stay on Bear Peak Trail from start to finish.
Like the setting for the mythical (and much-desired) lake vacation, this place is ideal for your dog to recognize different forms of nature: wildflowers, serene forests and swift rivers. And the best thing is that, when you finish, you can reward him with the Doggie Delights menu on the Veranda. Yummy!
It's clearly a beauty. Flowers of various hues and colors flood this botanical garden in Asheville. The tour winds through streams and meandering paths. Guide your dog along with them, and watch out for the flora!
Another challenge is in sight. This time, the Hog Rock / Cunningham Falls loop brings ups and downs and uneven, rocky terrain that will serve as a workout to keep your pup in shape. But the Cunningham Falls and scenic overlooks will be rewarding for sure.
Its conditioning makes it a trail for everyone. You can enjoy nature and the 215-foot Taughannock Falls with your pet outside the city. And, if it's summer and you're in the mood for a swim, cool off in them!
Rocky, orange and desert. The Grand Canyon of Texas is noticed. Palo Duro Canyon will be the perfect setting for your pet. Wide open spaces where you can run around on a trail of moderate difficulty. Remember the water!
Another one at the foot of the sea. Overlooking the Newport waterfront, the Cliff Walk is approximately 3.5-mile trail is leash-friendly for dogs.
And now, after choosing your route, remember to walk carefully where you step and respect the trails for your pet and the flora and fauna around you. Leave No Trace!
