25 Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in America

There is no better way to bond with your dog than hitting the trail together. The rhythm of footsteps on dirt, the shared excitement of rounding a bend to discover a waterfall or panoramic vista, the contented exhaustion of collapsing together at the trailhead after a full day of adventure. Hiking with your dog taps into something fundamental about the human-canine relationship that has been forged over thousands of years of shared exploration.

America is blessed with an extraordinary diversity of landscapes, and for dog owners, the options for trail adventures are nearly limitless. From the granite-clad peaks of New England to the red rock canyons of the Southwest, from lush Pacific Northwest rainforests to rolling Appalachian ridgelines, there are dog-friendly trails to suit every ability level and aesthetic preference. This guide covers 25 of the best dog-friendly hiking trails across every region of the United States, complete with practical information to help you plan your next adventure.

Before You Hit the Trail: Essentials

Fitness Assessment

Not every dog is ready for every trail. Before planning a hike, honestly assess your dog’s fitness level:

• Beginner dogs: Can handle flat to gently rolling trails of 1 to 3 miles. This includes puppies over six months, senior dogs, small breeds, and dogs new to hiking.
• Intermediate dogs: Comfortable with moderate elevation gain, rocky terrain, and distances of 3 to 8 miles. Most healthy adult dogs fall into this category with some conditioning.
• Advanced dogs: Athletic breeds in peak condition that can handle strenuous trails of 8 or more miles with significant elevation gain, technical terrain, and multi-day backpacking.

Gear Checklist

Every hike with your dog should include:

• A sturdy six-foot leash (retractable leashes are not appropriate for trails)
• A well-fitting harness with ID tags
• Collapsible water bowls (at least two)
• Enough water for both of you
• High-energy treats
• Poop bags
• Dog-specific first aid kit
• Booties for rocky or hot terrain
• A packable jacket for weather changes

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Northeast Region

1. Carriage Roads, Acadia National Park, Maine

• Distance: Up to 45 miles of interconnected paths
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Leashed dogs welcome on all carriage roads

These crushed gravel paths were built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the early 1900s and are among the most scenic, dog-friendly trails in America. Wide, gently graded, and surrounded by forests and lakes, they are perfect for dogs of all fitness levels. The Jordan Pond area is particularly beautiful.

2. Breakneck Ridge to Bull Hill, Hudson Highlands, New York

• Distance: 6.5 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs allowed on leash

One of the most challenging and rewarding hikes near New York City. The trail features rock scrambles and exposed ridgelines with stunning views of the Hudson River. Only for experienced, athletic dogs comfortable with rock climbing.

3. Franconia Ridge Loop, White Mountains, New Hampshire

• Distance: 8.9 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs allowed on leash in White Mountain National Forest

This iconic loop hike climbs above treeline to a ridge walk with 360-degree views of the White Mountains. The exposed ridge section can be windy and weather can change rapidly. Best for well-conditioned dogs in summer and early fall.

4. Mohawk Trail, Mohawk Trail State Forest, Massachusetts

• Distance: Various loops from 2 to 7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

A beautiful forest network with trails along the Cold River and Deerfield River. The Indian Trail to Todd Mountain offers excellent views, while the river trails are perfect for dogs who love to splash.

Southeast Region

5. Max Patch, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

• Distance: 2.4 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

Max Patch is a bald mountain summit along the Appalachian Trail with 360-degree panoramic views of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. The wide, grassy summit is perfect for dogs, and the relatively short hike makes it accessible to all fitness levels. Arrive at sunrise or sunset for unforgettable photographs.

6. Raven Cliff Falls, Caesars Head State Park, South Carolina

• Distance: 4.4 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

This trail follows a creek through lush forest to a viewing platform overlooking a 420-foot waterfall. The trail is well-maintained with wooden bridges and stone steps. Dogs will love the creek crossings.

7. Palo Duro Canyon, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

• Distance: Over 30 miles of trails
• Difficulty: Easy to strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” this 120-mile canyon system in the Texas Panhandle offers dramatic red rock scenery and over 30 miles of dog-friendly trails. The Lighthouse Trail (5.8 miles round trip) leads to the park’s iconic rock formation.

8. Devil’s Bridge Trail, Sedona, Arizona

• Distance: 4.2 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

One of Sedona’s most popular hikes leading to a natural sandstone arch. The red rock scenery is spectacular, and the relatively short distance makes it manageable in cooler months. Avoid summer months due to extreme heat.

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Midwest Region

9. Towpath Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

• Distance: Up to 20+ miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

A flat, paved trail following the historic Ohio & Erie Canal through forests, wetlands, and past waterfalls. Perfect for dogs of all ages and abilities, and one of the longest continuously flat dog-friendly trails in any national park.

10. Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota’s North Shore

• Distance: 310 miles total (day hike sections available)
• Difficulty: Easy to strenuous (varies by section)
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash on most sections

Running along Lake Superior’s North Shore, this trail offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Midwest. Popular day-hike sections include Gooseberry Falls (1.5 miles), Split Rock River Loop (5.7 miles), and Oberg Mountain (2.3 miles). Multiple waterfalls, lake views, and boreal forest create an unforgettable experience.

11. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

• Distance: 13 miles of interconnected trails
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

Located along the Illinois River, this park features 18 canyons carved by glacial meltwater, seasonal waterfalls, and blufftop overlooks. The canyon trails are the most scenic, though they can be crowded on weekends.

12. Indiana Dunes Trails, Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

• Distance: Over 50 miles of trails
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

Sand dunes, wetlands, forests, and 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline provide diverse trail experiences. The 3 Dune Challenge (1.5 miles with 552 feet of elevation gain across three dunes) is a popular workout for athletic dogs.

Mountain West Region

13. Bear Peak, Boulder, Colorado

• Distance: 4.7 to 9 miles (depending on route)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs allowed on leash or under voice control (depending on trailhead)

Rising over 3,000 feet from Boulder to a rocky summit, Bear Peak offers one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes along Colorado’s Front Range. The panoramic views from the top stretch from the Continental Divide to the Great Plains.

14. Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

• Distance: 3.6 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs NOT allowed on trails (use nearby Roosevelt National Forest instead)

Important note: Rocky Mountain National Park does not allow dogs on trails. However, the adjacent Roosevelt National Forest has many dog-friendly alternatives with similar scenery. The East Shore Trail on the south side of Grand Lake is an excellent option.

15. Angel’s Landing Alternative: Pa’rus Trail, Zion National Park, Utah

• Distance: 3.5 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dog policy: Pa’rus Trail is the only dog-friendly trail in Zion

While Zion’s famous trails are off-limits to dogs, the Pa’rus Trail follows the Virgin River on a paved, scenic path that welcomes leashed pets. It is flat, beautiful, and provides access to the canyon’s dramatic scenery without the crowds of the more famous routes.

16. Jenny Lake Loop, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

• Distance: 7.7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs allowed on paved portions and some multi-use pathways

Grand Teton allows dogs on more trails than most mountain parks. The paved multi-use pathway system offers stunning views of the Teton Range while keeping your dog legal. For a longer adventure, the Teton Park Road bike path stretches over 14 miles.

Pacific Northwest Region

17. Rattlesnake Ledge, North Bend, Washington

• Distance: 4 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

Just 30 minutes from Seattle, this popular trail climbs through old-growth forest to a rock ledge overlooking Rattlesnake Lake. The views are stunning and the trail is well-maintained. Arrive early on weekends to beat the crowds.

18. Eagle Creek Trail, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

• Distance: Up to 13 miles (out and back to Tunnel Falls)
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

One of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacular trails, Eagle Creek passes multiple waterfalls, crosses a dramatic bridge behind Tunnel Falls, and winds through lush moss-covered forest. Some sections have steep dropoffs, so keep your dog close on a short leash.

19. Runyon Canyon, Los Angeles, California

• Distance: 0.85 to 3.3 miles (various loops)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Off-leash allowed in designated areas

LA’s most famous dog-friendly hike features off-leash areas where dogs can roam free with views of the Hollywood sign and downtown LA. The park is busy, social, and perfect for friendly dogs who enjoy meeting new friends.

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Pacific Coast Region

20. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel, California

• Distance: Various trails from 0.5 to 6 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs allowed on paved Sea Lion Point Trail and Bird Island Trail (on leash)

While dog access is limited, the trails that do allow pets offer some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in California. Watch for sea otters, harbor seals, and migrating whales from the clifftop trails.

21. Fort Funston, San Francisco, California

• Distance: Various trails totaling about 3 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Dog policy: Off-leash allowed

A legendary off-leash paradise on the bluffs above the Pacific Ocean. Dogs can run freely on the beach and coastal trails. The hang gliding launch area provides dramatic views, and the social atmosphere makes it a favorite among San Francisco dog owners.

Southwest Region

22. Peralta Trail, Superstition Wilderness, Arizona

• Distance: 4.6 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

This trail offers iconic views of Weaver’s Needle, a volcanic spire in the Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix. The desert scenery is dramatic, with saguaro cacti and wildflowers in spring. Best hiked October through April to avoid extreme heat.

23. Tent Rocks, Kasha-Katuwe, New Mexico

• Distance: 3 miles (loop with slot canyon)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dog policy: Dogs NOT allowed

Unfortunately, this spectacular trail does not allow dogs. However, the nearby Valles Caldera National Preserve does allow leashed dogs on designated trails, offering volcanic landscapes and expansive meadows.

Appalachian Region

24. Old Rag Mountain, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

• Distance: 9.2 miles (circuit)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs welcome on leash

One of the most popular hikes on the East Coast, Old Rag features a dramatic rock scramble near the summit. Only attempt this with athletic, confident dogs comfortable with climbing over and between boulders. The views from the summit are extraordinary.

25. Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

• Distance: 8 miles (out and back)
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Dog policy: Dogs NOT allowed on most Smokies trails

The Great Smoky Mountains have strict no-dog policies on nearly all trails. The only dog-friendly option is the Gatlinburg Trail (3.8 miles round trip), a paved path along the Little Pigeon River. For more adventurous hiking with your dog, explore the adjacent Cherokee and Pisgah National Forests.

Trail Etiquette for Dog Owners

Being a responsible dog owner on the trail keeps trails open for all pet owners. Follow these guidelines:

On the Trail

• Always yield to other hikers. Step aside, shorten your leash, and keep your dog close.
• Yield to horses. If you encounter equestrians, step well off the trail on the downhill side and ask the rider for guidance.
• Pack out all waste. Carry used poop bags to a proper trash receptacle. Never leave bags on the trail, even if you plan to pick them up on the way back.
• Stay on designated trails. Off-trail exploration damages vegetation and disturbs wildlife.
• Keep your dog under control at all times. Even on off-leash trails, your dog should respond reliably to recall commands.

Wildlife Encounters

• Never let your dog chase wildlife. This is both dangerous for your pet and harmful to park ecosystems.
• Be alert for snakes. Keep your dog on the trail and watch where you both step.
• In bear country, make noise, carry bear spray, and keep your dog close. A dog that runs toward a bear and then runs back to you may lead the bear directly to you.

Water Safety

• Not all water is safe. Blue-green algae, giardia, and leptospirosis can all be present in natural water sources.
• Keep your dog out of fast-moving water unless you are confident in their swimming ability.
• Rinse your dog after swimming in stagnant water or saltwater.

Building Your Dog’s Trail Fitness

If your dog is new to hiking, build up gradually:

Weeks 1 to 2: Daily walks of 30 to 45 minutes on varied terrain (grass, gravel, hills). Weeks 3 to 4: Increase to 60-minute walks with moderate elevation changes. Weeks 5 to 6: Introduce short hikes of 2 to 3 miles with elevation gain. Weeks 7 to 8: Attempt moderate hikes of 4 to 6 miles. Week 9 and beyond: Your dog should be ready for most intermediate trails.

Pay attention to your dog’s recovery. If they are excessively tired, limping, or reluctant to walk the day after a hike, you have done too much too soon. Scale back and build more gradually.

Planning Resources

The following tools and websites are invaluable for planning dog-friendly hikes:

• AllTrails: The most comprehensive trail database in the US. Filter by “dog friendly” to find suitable trails. The app includes offline maps, GPS tracking, and user reviews.
• BringFido: Specifically designed for pet travel, with hiking trail listings, dog park information, and pet-friendly accommodation nearby.
• Hiking Project: A free app from REI with detailed trail descriptions, photos, and conditions reports.
• Leave No Trace: The organization’s website has excellent resources on responsible outdoor recreation with pets.

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Final Thoughts

Every trail you hike with your dog deepens the bond between you. Dogs do not care about summit selfies or trail statistics. They care about being with you, exploring together, sharing the simple joy of moving through the natural world side by side. America’s trail systems offer something for every dog and every dog owner. Extend your hiking trip by camping with your dog at a nearby campground. Whether you are logging miles on a challenging mountain ridge or strolling a flat canal towpath, the experience of hiking with your best friend is one of life’s great pleasures.

Lace up your boots, clip on that leash, and go find your next trail. Many of the best trails are located in dog-friendly national parks. Your dog is ready.

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