18 Best Hiking Trails to Explore With Your Dog

If you like to get out and about with your dog, there are lots of amazing hiking opportunities that are pet-friendly. From exploring inspiring rock formations to taking in the air from cool mountain breezes,  we take a look at 18 of the best hiking trails that are dog-friendly:

Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas

Located in the Ozark Mountains, Devil’s Den State Park features winding trails through caves, cliffs and lush forests. This park has a range of pet-friendly trails, including the popular Devil’s Den Trail which is a 1.5-mile loop offering breathtaking scenery.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Colorado

This lesser-known park near Colorado Springs offers a mix of red rock formations and wide-open trails. Dogs are welcome on leash and can enjoy off-leash fun in designated areas. Red Rocks gets its name from the striking red rock formations that create a stunning landscape where visitors can explore and dogs can run free along the terrain. 

Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia

Located in the Allegheny Mountains,Blackwater Falls State Park boasts stunning views and pet-friendly trails, including the beautiful Elakala Trail. With its cascading waterfalls and moss-covered rocks, everywhere you turn is a must-see photo opportunity for you and your pet. Your dog will enjoy the cool, shaded paths on warm days and there’s plenty of spots to rest and have a picnic together.

Sleeping Giant State Park, Connecticut

Named after a ridge resembling a sleeping giant, Sleeping Giant State Park offers a variety of trails for you and your dog. The Tower Trail is a favorite, leading to panoramic views at the top that make an excellent photo keepsake.  Leashed dogs are welcome and the gentle inclines make it accessible for all skill levels.

Forest Park, Missouri

While Forest Park is located in bustling St. Louis, it offers miles of peaceful, pet-friendly trails. The park’s dual-loop paths wind through woodlands, meadows and lakes. Your dog can take in the sights and smells of nature while you enjoy the serenity of this urban oasis.

Caprock Canyons State Park, Texas

Caprock Canyons offers a rugged hiking experience where you can walk red rock formations and desert terrain that you may not have experienced before. The Eagle Point Trail is dog-friendly as leashed pets are welcome to explore the cliffs and enjoy the breathtaking.

Mohonk Preserve, New York

Located in the Hudson Valley, Mohonk Preserve offers over 70 miles of trails, many of which are dog-friendly. The Bonticou Crag Trail is an easy trail that provides stunning views and opportunities for your dog to explore the variety of terrains, whether open fields to wooded areas.

Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa

This unique park features a network of caves, cliffs and forested trails perfect for adventurous dogs. The Cave Trail loops through fascinating rock formations, allowing you and your pup to explore the underground wonders and above-ground beauty of this hidden gem in Iowa.

Tallulah Gorge State Park, Georgia

Tallulah Gorge’s rim trails offer breathtaking views of waterfalls and the steep canyon below. Dogs are allowed on leashes and will love the fresh mountain air. The North and South Rim Trails are great in summer as they have  a mix of shaded paths and sunny overlooks, so your dog will not overheat on your walk. 

Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia

Another gem in Georgia, Cloudland Canyon features picturesque trails winding through forests and waterfalls. The West Rim Loop Trail is ideal for hiking with dogs, offering spectacular views and a moderate challenge. Your pup will appreciate the varied terrain and opportunities to explore.

Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota

Stretching along Lake Superior’s northern shore, this long-distance trail offers segments perfect for dog-friendly day hikes. The Split Rock River Loop Trail is a standout, featuring waterfalls and forested paths. Your dog will love the fresh lake breeze and the natural beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore.

Great Dismal Swamp, Virginia/North Carolina

Despite its eerie name, the Great Dismal Swamp is a serene escape for hikers and their pets. The Washington Ditch Trail leads to Lake Drummond, offering scenic views and abundant wildlife. The flat terrain makes it easy for dogs to navigate and the shaded paths keep things cool.

Point Reyes National Seashore, California

Point Reyes is a lesser-known gem along the California coast with pet-friendly trails like the Kehoe Beach Trail. This short path leads to a secluded beach where dogs can play on the sand and enjoy ocean breezes. It’s a perfect mix of coastal beauty and canine fun.

Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Congaree’s unique swamp landscape offers a one-of-a-kind hiking experience. The Boardwalk Loop Trail welcomes leashed dogs and winds through towering trees and wetlands. It’s an excellent spot to experience the beauty of South Carolina’s wilderness with your furry companion by your side.

Painted Hills, Oregon

Part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills is a stunning spot for a quiet, dog-friendly hike. The Carroll Rim Trail provides elevated views of the vibrant, multicolored hills. While the terrain can be dry, your pup will enjoy the striking landscapes and peaceful atmosphere.

Acadia National Park, Maine

While Acadia is a popular park, some of its dog-friendly trails remain underexplored. The Ocean Path Trail is a great choice for leashed dogs, offering scenic coastal views and plenty of fresh sea air. It’s a great opportunity to experience Maine’s rugged coastline together.

Snow Canyon State Park, Utah

Snow Canyon offers dramatic red rock scenery and pet-friendly trails that are less crowded than other Utah parks. The Petrified Dunes Trail is a particular highlight, allowing you and your dog to explore ancient rock formations and interesting sandy paths.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Though much of North Cascades park is off-limits to pets, trails in the surrounding Ross Lake National Recreation Area welcome dogs. The Thunder Knob Trail offers moderate inclines and stunning views of turquoise lakes and the surrounding peaks. Your dog will love the fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings just as much as you will.

This story is part of our Hidden Trails series. Explore more nature-forward escapes here.