The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Each State

There's nothing better than exploring the great outdoors with your best friend by your side. Hiking is not only a great way to exercise for both you and your dog, but it's also an opportunity to create lifelong memories. That's why we've compiled a list of the best dog-friendly hikes in every state. No matter where you live, you and your pup can enjoy the beauty of nature together.

How should I prepare for a dog-friendly hike?

When planning your next hiking trip with your dog, we recommend keeping a few things in mind. First and foremost, make sure the trail you choose is dog-friendly. Not all hiking trails allow dogs, and those that do may have specific rules and regulations regarding dogs, such as requiring them to be on leash at all times. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your pup, as well as a first-aid kit in case of any injuries.

We recommend having a backup plan in case something goes wrong. It can be tough to consider the worst-case scenario, but the reality is that nature can be wild and unrelenting. Wildlife, unstable footing and inclement weather can all pose a challenge to your and your dog.

We recommend taking a look at something like the Evac Kit from Ruffwear, which allows dogs to be carried along the trail if injured. Better safe than sorry when it comes to our pets.

BackTrak™ Dog Evacuation Kit

The BackTrak Evac Kit™ is an emergency evacuation kit that’s prepared for the unexpected so you and your dog can confidently go out and go further. It includes two components: a lightweight first-aid dog muzzle, and a human vest with a built-in dog-carrying sling. Together, these are designed to aid you if an emergency situation comes up and your dog is injured or sick and unable to get back to the car under their own power.

Learn more

With that in mind, let's take a look at some of the best dog-friendly hikes across the United States.

Alabama: Chewacla State Park, Auburn

Located in Auburn, Chewacla State Park is the perfect spot for a dog-friendly hike in Alabama. With over 700 acres of rolling hills, forests, and lakes, Chewacla State Park offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. There are over 5 miles of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty, so there’s something for every level of hiker and their leashed pup.

Alaska: Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site, Valdez

The Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site in Valdez Alaska is a scenic and dog-friendly hike that offers stunning glacier views. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail. The trail is short but great for experienced hikers and the entire site itself spans over 100 acres.

Arizona: Bell Rock Pathway, Sedona

The Bell Rock Pathway in Sedona, Arizona, is a dog-friendly hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding red rocks. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail, and there are even dog waste stations along the way. The trail is easy to moderate in difficulty and is about 3.6 miles long. Both experienced and beginner hikers can enjoy this route with their pup.

Arkansas: Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton

Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton, Arkansas, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located in the Arkansas River Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and there are even dog waste stations throughout the park. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 7 miles long.

California: Runyon Canyon, Los Angeles

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Runyon Canyon is a popular hiking spot for both locals and tourists. The trail offers stunning views of the city, the Hollywood sign, and the Pacific Ocean. Dogs are allowed off-leash in certain areas of the park, and there are even dog water fountains along the way. The trail is moderate in difficulty and is about 3 miles long.

Colorado: Chautauqua Park, Boulder

Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Dogs are allowed off-leash in certain areas of the park, and there are even dog waste stations throughout the park. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 7 miles long.

Connecticut: Sleeping Giant State Park, Hamden

Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of New Haven and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and there are even dog waste stations throughout the park. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 8 miles long.

Delaware: Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes

Cape Henlopen State Park is home to more than 5,000 stunning acres, including a large beach that your dog will enjoy exploring. Delaware's largest state park is the perfect setting to take a pup hiking on-leash, and you can even camp overnight in designated areas. With paddleboarding, fishing, and playing in the sand on the schedule, you're sure to have a great pet-friendly day with your dog.

Florida: Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Hobe Sound

Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, Florida, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and there are even dog waste stations throughout the park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, so be sure to keep your pup close. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 11 miles long.

Georgia: Panther Creek Falls Trail, Clarkesville

The Panther Creek Falls Trail in Clarkesville, Georgia, is a dog-friendly hike that leads to a stunning waterfall. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail (and off-leash in designated areas), and there are plenty of opportunities for swimming along the way. The trail is moderate in difficulty and is about 7 miles long.

Hawaii: Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail, Oahu

If you're looking for a dog-friendly hike with a view, look no further than the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail in Oahu, Hawaii. The trail offers stunning views of the ocean and the lighthouse at the top. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail, but be sure to invest in some booties if hiking during the warm months as the asphalt can burn your pup's feet. The trail is easy to moderate in difficulty and is about 2 miles long.

Idaho: Camel's Back Park, Boise

Camel's Back Park in Boise, Idaho, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located near downtown Boise and offers stunning views of the city and the Boise Foothills. Dogs are allowed off-leash in certain areas of the park, but be careful along the stone staircase as it can be too steep for pups. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 5 miles long.

Illinois: Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, Darien

The Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien, Illinois, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of Chicago and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and there are even dog waste stations throughout the park. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 9 miles long.

Indiana: Turkey Run State Park, Marshall

Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, Indiana, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located near the Wabash River and has views of neighboring Sugar Creek. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and there are even dog waste stations throughout the park. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 11 miles long.

Iowa: Ledges State Park, Madrid

Ledges State Park in Madrid, Iowa, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that runs along the Des Moines River Valley. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and they'll love trekking the canyon with you by their side. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 4 miles long.

Kansas: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Strong City

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Strong City, Kansas, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that meanders through a beautiful prairie. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and they'll enjoy romping through the tall grass. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 3 miles long.

Kentucky: Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, Clermont

The Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Clermont, Kentucky, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of Louisville and is home to a variety of interesting wildlife. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and they'll enjoy over 32 miles of hiking. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 14 miles long.

Louisiana: Bayou Sauvage Ridge Trail, New Orleans

The Bayou Sauvage Ridge Trail in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that is housed within the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. The trail is on a boardwalk and you'll enjoy views of the swamps and bayou without dipping your toes in the water. Just be sure to watch out for gators and wild boars - they're not common but better to be safe than sorry!

Maine: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine, offers some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the state. The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail and enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Maryland: Patapsco Valley State Park, Ellicott City

Patapsco Valley State Park in Ellicott City, Maryland, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of Baltimore and is a favorite of pet-owners in the area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, which range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 16 miles long.

Massachusetts: Middlesex Fells Reservation, Stoneham

Middlesex Fells Reservation in Stoneham, Massachusetts, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of Boston and welcomes leashed dogs, or un-leashed in designated areas. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 10 miles long.

Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Empire, Michigan, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail.

Minnesota: Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors

Gooseberry Falls State Park in Two Harbors, Minnesota, is a dog-friendly hiking spot with views of the falls and the surrounding area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails and in campgrounds, and even on the beaches. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 8 miles long.

Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park, Tishomingo

Tishomingo State Park in Tishomingo, Mississippi, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and no pet-fee is required to camp. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails and in the campgrounds.

Missouri: Castlewood State Park, Ballwin

Castlewood State Park in Ballwin, Missouri, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of St. Louis along the scenic Meramec River. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, but beware that the active railways nearby may scare dogs - and you'll obviously want to keep an eye on your pups at all times to stay safe.

Montana: Glacier National Park, West Glacier

While Glacier National Park is not the most pet-friendly in the nation, the surrounding area offers plenty of roaming opportunities for the hiking pup. The park offers a variety of trails for humans all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Your dog will enjoy Flathead, Kootenai, and Lewis and Clark National Forests - and most even allow pets to be off-leash on designated trails.

Nebraska: Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford

Fort Robinson State Park is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located in Crawford and offers over 60 miles of hikes to partake in with your pup. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trails, and there is even a dog-friendly campground nearby. The trails range from easy to difficult and are a range of lengths.

Nevada: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Las Vegas

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that showcases views of the red rock formations in the area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 11 miles long.

New Hampshire: White Mountain National Forest, Campton

White Mountain National Forest in Campton, New Hampshire, offers some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the state. The forest offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the forest's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail.

New Jersey: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Bushkill

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Bushkill, New Jersey, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located on the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania and runs up against the Delaware River. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 14 miles long.

New Mexico: Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Cochiti Pueblo

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument in Cochiti Pueblo, New Mexico, is a dog-friendly hiking spot where you'll come in contact with the unique rock formations in the area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the monument's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 3 miles long.

New York: Harriman State Park, Stony Point

Harriman State Park in Stony Point, New York, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located just outside of New York City along the Hudson River. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 21 miles long.

North Carolina: Hanging Rock State Park, Danbury

Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury, North Carolina, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that pet and people alike will enjoy. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 7 miles long.

North Dakota: White Butte Highpoint Trail, Bowman

White Butte Highpoint Trail in North Dakota offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for beginner hikers, but even more experienced hikers will enjoy the stroll. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, and off-leash in other designated areas. It's a popular birding spot so bring your binoculars along and enjoy!

Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park, Logan

Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located in the Hocking Hills region and is dense with beautiful trees. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 6 miles long.

Oklahoma: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Indiahoma

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Indiahoma, Oklahoma, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that boasts views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the refuge's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 8 miles long.

Oregon: Crater Lake National Park, Klamath County

Crater Lake National Park in Klamath County, Oregon, offers some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the state. The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail.

Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen State Park, Benton

Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton, Pennsylvania, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located in the Endless Mountains region and showcases the beauty of the surrounding waterfalls and streams. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 7 miles long.

Rhode Island: Burlingame State Park, Charlestown

Burlingame State Park in Charlestown, Rhode Island, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located near the coast which means the hikes are quite picturesque. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 5 miles long.

South Carolina: Table Rock State Park, Pickens

Table Rock State Park in Pickens, South Carolina, is a dog-friendly hiking spot surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. Cabins are not dog-friendly but if you're not planning to stay overnight, that shouldn't be an issue. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 7 miles long.

South Dakota: Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, Hot Springs

Buffalo Gap National Grasslands in Hot Springs, South Dakota, is a popular pet-friendly hiking spot. The park is located near the Badlands and is the perfect stop as the Badlands themselves are not dog-friendly. The trails range from easy to moderate and boast uninterrupted views of the prairie.

Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the state. The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Dogs are allowed on-leash on specific trails, but there are a few where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out.

Texas: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Canyon, Texas, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that showcases views of the second-largest canyon in the United States. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 0.75 to 10 miles long.

Utah: Red Canyon, Panguitch

The Red Canyons in Utah are a great option for dogs and their parents. You'll be in awe of this collection of red rock formation and tunnels along Highway 12. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails and hikers of all levels will enjoy the extensive variety of trails.

Vermont: Camel's Hump State Park, Huntington

Camel's Hump State Park in Huntington, Vermont, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for experienced hikers. The park is located in the Green Mountains and can be quite steep in some areas. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but there are a few trails where dogs are not allowed. It's important to check the park's rules and regulations before heading out on the trail. Depending on the direction you choose, trails range from easy to very difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 8 miles long.

Virginia: Shenandoah National Park, Luray

Shenandoah National Park in Luray, Virginia, offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails for all skill levels. The park is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and all but 20 trails allow you to bring your pup. Dogs can hike on-leash on most trails, which range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 8 miles long.

Washington: Mailbox Peak Trail Loop, North Bend

Mailbox Peak Trail Loop in North Bend, Washington, offers some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the state. The park offers a variety of trails for more experienced hikers. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, and may be off-leash in a few designated areas. Be sure to read the rules and regulations before you go.

West Virginia: New River Gorge National River, Glen Jean

New River Gorge National River in Glen Jean, West Virginia, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that boasts a great view of the New River Gorge. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, and you'll encounter coal mines, rocky outcrops, and more.The trails range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 1 to 8 miles long.

Wisconsin: Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo

Devil's Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin, is a dog-friendly hiking spot that offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. The park is located in the Baraboo Range and is a favorite of pet parents in the area. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, which range from easy to difficult and can be anywhere from 0.5 to 4.5 miles long.

Wyoming: Bridger-Teton National Forest, Pinedale

The Bridger-Teton National Forest in Pinedale, Wyoming, offers some magnificent dog-friendly hiking spots for all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. We love the Highline Trail in particular, which features a pebble beach that water-loving dogs will flip over. Dogs are allowed on-leash on most trails, but it's important to check the forest's rules and regulations before heading out.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many dog-friendly hikes available across the United States. Whether you're looking for a short, easy hike or a challenging adventure, there's a trail out there for you and your adventurous sidekick.

While hiking with your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience, it's important to remember that not all dogs are built for hiking. Start slow and choose trails that are appropriate for your dog's age, breed, and fitness level. If your dog is new to hiking, begin with shorter, easier trails and gradually work your way up to more challenging hikes.

No matter where you live, there's a dog-friendly hike nearby waiting to be explored. Hiking is a great way to bond with your curious copilot while enjoying the beauty of nature. So grab your leash and hit the trails!

Lizz Caputo is a Content Strategist at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.