As the temperatures dip and leaves fall to the ground, it’s the perfect time to spoil your canine companion with quality time in the great outdoors. Below, we’ve compiled five dog-friendly spots with hikes around the country to enjoy with your furry friend this fall.
Toketee Falls — Oregon
This easy-rated 0.9 mile out-and-back trail features one of the most famous waterfalls in Oregon—Toketee Falls—and is a low-committal stroll, yet incredibly beautiful to enjoy with your pooch. Admire the sounds of cascading water plunging over basalt cliffs into a large pool of water. There are many picnic benches to enjoy a lunch accompanied by your pup, or even watch as your dog—or you—daringly splash in the cold pool of water.
Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes — Michigan
Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes is one of Michigan’s biggest gems, and your dog can share the wonders of the mitten’s western side alongside you. Try out Pyramid Point Loop, a moderate 2.5-mile loop boasting views of Lake Michigan as you stroll through dusty sand dunes. At Empire Bluff Trail, you can wind through towering forest trees until you reach the coast, spending about 1.5 miles on your feet round-trip.
St. Mary’s Glacier and James Peak — Colorado
The trailhead to St. Mary’s Glacier is roughly an hour from Denver, making this a convenient escape from the city. You can hike roughly half a mile with your pup to reach beautiful views of St. Mary’s Glacier and return down, or if you and your dog are up for more adventure and difficulty, continue on the trail for around 3.5 additional miles and summit James Peak, a popular Colorado 13er. Make sure to bring extra layers for yourself, plus food and water for your furry friend.
Acadia National Park — Maine
Acadia National Park is mostly situated along the mid-section of the coast of Maine and has over 100 miles of dog-friendly terrain where you can explore beautiful scenery—and one of the few national parks to allow dog on trails. To preserve your pet privilege, you and your pup can even become an Arcadia BARK Ranger to learn tips and tricks to responsible hiking and pet safety. Some of the top trails at Acadia National Park to bring your dog on include a moderate 1.8-mile loop on Great Head Trail for beach access and beautiful ocean views.
Blue Hills Reservation — Massachusetts
Blue Hills Reservation is a 7,000-acre state park situated roughly 10 miles south of Boston that is an excellent space to share with your dog. There are a variety of dog-friendly trails that range from longer days to shorter strolls. Hike Great Blue Hill via Skyline Trail, a 3-mile look through beautiful New England fall foliage and lookouts over the downtown Boston skyline. Or, cruise through colorful trees, serene ponds, and say hello to wildlife on the 6.7-mile peaceful Ponkapoag Pond Trail.
