dog hiking

Asheville is a haven for pet owners who love to hike with their furry friends. Check out below our top dog-friendly hiking destinations to explore while in Asheville!

The Blue Ridge Parkway

  • The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the United States, and it also happens to be a great place to hike with your dog. The Parkway offers miles of trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Some of the most popular hiking trails include: Craggy Gardens, Graveyard Fields, and Linville Falls.

Bent Creek Experimental Forest

  • Bent Creek Experimental Forest is a beautiful forest located just outside of Asheville. This forest offers over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails that are dog-friendly. The trails range from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. This is a great place to spend a day exploring the beauty of nature with your dog.

French Broad River Greenway

  • This trail runs along the French Broad River and offers scenic views of the water and surrounding mountains. The trail is paved and flat, making it a great option for a leisurely walk with your pet.

Pisgah National Forest

  • Pisgah National Forest is a vast forest located just south of Asheville. This forest offers numerous hiking trails that are dog-friendly, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some of the most popular trails include: Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, and Skinny Dip Falls. Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Pisgah National Forest are a wonderful way to spend a day exploring the beauty of the mountains with your furry friend.

DuPont State Recreational Forest

  • DuPont State Recreational Forest is a lush forest located about an hour from Asheville. This forest offers numerous hiking trails that are dog-friendly, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some of the most popular trails include Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. 

Always remember to follow trail regulations and guidelines to ensure that you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable hike!