Make your next adventure to a National Park even better with your pup by your side.
When you’re planning a trip, you want to travel with loved ones. That includes your four-legged, furry friend. Instead of leaving your dog at home, bring them along with the whole family to enjoy these dog-friendly parks and activities.
Olympic National Park
Located in northwestern Washington, Olympic National Park gives you the opportunity to experience several different environments all in one place. You can see forests, coastline, hot springs, and even glaciers, all in one location.
While most places in Olympic National Park prohibit dogs, Olympic National Forest is dog-friendly. We’ve found all the places you and your furry friend can go together so all you have to do is splendor in vacation.
Hike the Spruce Railroad Trail
One of the best ways to bask in nature with your pet is by taking a hike. The Spruce Railroad Trail runs along the coast of Lake Crescent and is a gentle hike. You can take the trail for as long as you want and turn around, or go all the way around the lake, which is 10 miles. This trail is dog-friendly, but be sure to bring a leash.
Along the hike, you’ll find old orchards, maple trees, ancient railroad tracks, the Punchbowl, and a beautiful bridge spanning the lake. You’ll find the bridge just one mile into your hike. Along the way, you’ll find a number of beach access points where you can cool your feet in the water.
Wander the Shores
Turn your camera and vacation mode on while you walk along the Olympic Coast.
While a hike through forests of maple trees is a great way to get your heart pumping, there’s nothing like a leisurely stroll in the sand. Take in the beachfront views of the Olympic Coast by heading to the Rialto Beach parking area and down to the sand.
As you walk along the coast you’ll see James and Little James Island, Gunsight Rock, and lots of sea stacks. Keep an eye out for spy whales, sea lions, and otters in the water! With sand underfoot, the smell of sea spray, and the sounds of waves crashing up on shore, you and your company are guaranteed some quality time.
Where to Stay: Lake Quinault Lodge
Lake Quinault Lodge is where time stands still. This grand, rustic lodge is the perfect place to hide away from the modern world and bask in nature. With comfortable guest rooms, a majestic fireplace, lake access, and the Roosevelt Dining Room, you will be perfectly situated.
Lake Tahoe
One of the beauties of the Lake Tahoe region is the diverse array of activities and year-round fun. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find diverting things to do and see. From lake cruises and tours to a night out at the casino, you won’t have a moment of boredom.
Hiking: Big Meadow Trail
There are plenty of dog-friendly hikes around Lake Tahoe, particularly Big Meadow Trail. The hike is open to hikers, dogs, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Along the trail, you’ll find rocky terrain, dense forest of Jeffrey pine, white pine, fir, and Big Meadow Creek. The trail ends at Big Meadow with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and a great spot to picnic.
Before setting off on your hike, be sure you have everything you need for you and your dog. You should have:
- A 6-foot leash
- Personal identification on your pet’s collar
- Pet waste pick-up bags
- Water
- Shoes for rough terrain (dog and human)
- Plenty of treats and snacks
Beachtime with Your Doggo
Zephyr Cove Resort provides access to two different beaches, south and north beach. Dogs are more than welcome on the north beach, as long as they are well-behaved and remain leashed. Down on the sand, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas to enhance your fun-in-the-sun day of beachside entertainment. If you’re brave, you can even take a dip in the chilly, Alpine waters of Lake Tahoe.
Where to Stay: Zephyr Cove Resort Cabins
Zephyr Cove Resort cabins offer pet-friendly, private accommodations for your stay in South Lake Tahoe. The cabins are just a few minutes walk from the beach and include a fully equipped kitchen, gas fireplace, lake views, and are pet-friendly for a small fee. Nearby, you’ll find Zephyr Cove Restaurant and Sunset Bar & Grille for tasty, convenient dining.
Togwotee Pass
It doesn’t get much better than this view right here!
Some of the most beautiful countryside and views in the United States are in Wyoming. Pack up your four-legged friend and family and head to Jackson Hole to enjoy some time in nature and scenic views in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Stretch Your Legs: Lost Lake Trail
An abundance of green grass to explore on the trails in Togwotee Pass.
Grab some snacks, lace up your hiking boots, and pack a day bag to hit the trail. Lost Lake Trail is a dog-friendly, 3.1-mile hike through fields of wildflowers. The trail is lightly trafficked, but dogs must be kept on a leash.
Cruise the Loop
Just because your legs are tired doesn’t mean you can’t take in the breath-taking surroundings. Hop in the car, roll down the windows, and take a beautiful drive along the scenic loop through Grand Teton National Park. The 42-mile loop has plenty of scenic pull-outs where you can stop to snap a photo or stretch your legs.
Where to Stay: Togwotee Mountain Lodge
Located in Moran, Wyoming, Togwotee Mountain Lodge is a classic, full-service mountain resort. Choose a room in the resort or a private cabin. The lodge is pet-friendly and is home to the Grizzly Grill and the Red Fox Saloon so you can get a meal and a drink anytime hunger strikes.
Lake Powell
If you have a dog that loves the water, make sure to look into all the fun water activities at Lake Powell!
Lake Powell is the ultimate playground for water sports, beachside activities, hiking, and spectacular scenery. With almost 2000 miles of shoreline and its location along the border of Utah and Arizona, the lake offers great weather and a wealth of nature.
Hike the Rim Trail
This mostly flat trail is an easy hike for both humans and dogs. The entire hike is 10 miles long, but you don’t have to go the entire way, it’s possible to exit at many points. Along the hike, you’ll find stunning views of Glen Canyon and Lake Powell. The trail runs near the town of Page at certain points.
View Horseshoe Bend
As part of the east rim of the Grand Canyon in Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is a must-see scenic stopping point. Carved out by the Colorado River, visitors and their leashed dogs can hike a short distance to a viewpoint for taking in the incredible views of the bend.
Where to Stay: Lake Powell Resort
For a pet-friendly place to stay near Lake Powell, look no further than Lake Powell Resort. For a small fee, you and your four-legged friend can stay in a marina or lake view Traditional Room. Dogs must be leashed at all times and shouldn’t be left unattended on a patio or balcony.
Bushkill Falls
Known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania, Bushkill Falls is a beautiful, pet-friendly location for a nature getaway for hiking, waterfall views, and picnics. The park is home to eight waterfalls, the Pocono Mountains, and plentiful hiking trails.
Take in Waterfall Views
No matter what type of hike you’re interested in, you can take in waterfall views in Bushkill Falls. Trails are rated as green, yellow, blue, and red, depending on their intensity. The park is dog-friendly, dogs must be kept on the leash and not be left unattended.
Have a Picnic
When you visit Bushkill Falls, be sure to pack a picnic. After seeing the waterfalls, you can head to the picnic areas and pavilion for some lunch. The picnic areas are located through the park but close at 5:00 pm.
When you’re planning a trip with the whole family, there’s no reason to leave your furry friend at home. These pet-friendly parks and activities will make for the perfect vacation for the whole family.
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