Heading out for a hike? Take your dog along to one of these dog-friendly parks in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Living in the city can turn dogs (and their pet parents) into couch potatoes. Luckily the DC area has a bunch of great places where you and your furry friend can hike, explore and expend that extra energy. If this is your dog’s first hike, pick a short trail to start. Just like humans, dogs need conditioning before they can take on a strenuous hike. Bring along eight ounces of water for every hour of hiking you plan to do with your dog. Be on the lookout for wild animals, plants, and other hazards that can hurt your dog. If the trail you’re planning to take is rocky, consider buying dog booties to protect your dog's feet. And finally, make sure to always clean up after your dog!
Theodore Roosevelt Island
Theodore Roosevelt Island is a tiny island in D.C. that was converted from farmland. This living memorial to Theodore Roosevelt has two and a half miles of trails, making it the perfect short hike for you and your dog. There are no fees for the park and it is open year-round. The entrance to the park is located near the George Washington Memorial Parkway, just past the Memorial Bridge.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve
Scott’s Run has scenic wooded trails and rugged, rocky climbs. One of the trails leads you through the preserve taking you up to Scott’s Run Waterfall and another one leads to scenic overlooks of the Potomac River. Scott’s Run is also the place to go to enjoy the turning of the leaves in fall and the wildflowers in spring. It may be tempting to let your dog swim in the waterfalls, but swimming is against the rules for all at Scott’s Run.
Washington and Old Dominion Trail
This former railroad trail was transformed into a park with over 65 miles of paved and gravel trails. Called the skinniest park in Virginia, the park covers the Washington and Old Dominion Trail from Shirlington to Purcellville. The natural topography of the gravel trails makes it gentler on your dog’s feet. The park is open year-round and can be accessed from a number of locations, just check the website for directions.
Gunpowder Falls State Park
Gunpowder State Park has a variety of trails from easy forest hikes to rugged gorge trails. The more than 20 miles of trails loop around and will even take you to the base of the Prettyboy Dam. Dogs are welcome on all the trails but you may have to share them with horses. In warmer weather, Gunpowder Falls has swimming holes where you and your dog can take a dip.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Considered one of the best walking parks in America, the scenery in Harpers Ferry National Park includes the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, and the C&O Canal. Stroll along the river, walk through Civil War battlefields, or hike up a mountain via the 20 miles of hiking trails. The entrance fee is $20 a day per car or you can purchase a Harpers Ferry Annual Pass for $35.
