Top Dog-Friendly Hiking Destinations in North Carolina

Courtesy of WagletWorks Adventure Dog Gear

North Carolina hosts some of the most breathtaking views from the tops of gorgeous mountains where you can take in the sights for miles around. But, as they say, the journey is just as important as the destination. We have a list of some of the best hiking journeys you can take throughout North Carolina, with your trusty four-legged companion right alongside of you!

The Blue Ridge Parkway & Mountains
The Blue Ridge Parkway is easily the most pristine drive in the United States but it also has equally amazing hiking trails to experience with your waglet. If you’re lucky enough to live near to the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can try each of these trails every weekend and choose your personal favorite.Maybe you’re passing through North Carolina or planning a vacation. Make a note of these trails to visit and experience all the Blue Ridge has to offer while you’re there.Our personal favorite is Grandfather Mountain. There is very little that can compare to the views offered here.

The Blue Ridge Mountains have endless outdoor activities for you, your family and your pup. This site lists plenty of things to do in the Blue Ridge, places to stay, restaurants and everything in between.

If you’re a resident of North Carolina or are going to be staying in North Carolina, we recommend the book Doggin’ Asheville which has 50 of the best places to hike with your dog. For only $12.95, you can’t beat the memories and experiences it can provide for you!

Hanging Rock State Park – Danbury, Stokes County
A nearly 7,000 acre state park located in northern North Carolina, Hanging Rock State Park boasts everything from a 12 acre lake to mountain peaks as high as 2,500 feet where you can view miles of the piedmont plateau all around you. Whether you want to rent a boat for some leisurely fishing, take a swim with your waglet at the bottom of a waterfall or explore the thousands of acres throughout this amazing mountainous refuge, your choices are never limited. And you’re sure to never be disappointed with anything you choose to do there!

Crowders Mountain State Park – Kings Mountain, Gaston County
Imagine walking the last steps to the second highest point in Gaston County to breathe in the sweet mountain air and see unobstructed views for over 25 miles; the birds around you welcoming your company with song and the trees gently rustling in the light wind with a warm sun peering through the green leaves. Crowders Mountain State Park is even better than it sounds. Choose from trails that range from less than a mile to some that are longer than 6 miles one way to explore the valley, climb the peaks, trek through the trickling streams or just enjoy the company of your dog and the sounds of nature around you.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore – Manteo, Dare County
Maybe you’re looking for something to do for the warmer weather and incorporate some swimming time for your waglet? Cape Hatteras National Seashore is the perfect idea! Your pup can explore all the trails and beach this park has to offer, except for what lies in the wildlife refuge. Spend the day exploring the trails and end your adventure by cooling off with a swim in the ocean or searching for seashells at low tide. Cape Hatteras is great for the day, the weekend or a long vacation with your dog.

Once you’ve got your perfect four-legged partner and are ready to hit the trails, here are 10 Essentials Everyone Should Consider Taking Whilst Hiking & Camping from coolwilderness.com.

Here’s another great resource with tips on hiking with your dog from My Open Country!

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WagletWorks Adventure Dog Gear is dedicated to improving the time you spend with your dogs by offering hands-free, care-free products that are perfect for every day outings or the biggest adventures. WagletWorks line of hands-free dog walking gear puts all of your focus on your dog and your surroundings, exactly where it should be!