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Autumn offers the opportunity to explore lesser-known national parks and monuments. The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it a perfect time to connect with nature in a serene setting.
These fun destinations offer breathtaking views, scenic drives and dog-friendly trails. With the summer rush over, visitors can take advantage of discounted admission fees and off-season deals that make these autumn visits even more affordable.
The National Park Service offers some tips and requirements for visitors bringing dogs along for your adventures:
- Keep dogs on leashes. Keep your dog leashed. Leashes must not be longer than six feet.
- Bring plenty of pet litter bags and pick up after your dog. Pet waste can transfer diseases to wildlife and harmful bacteria into water sources Your consideration helps keep tails available to other pet owners.
- Keep pets away from wildlife and prevent pets from startling or provoking them by barking, lunging and chasing animals.
- Take note of your dog’s health and abilities. How far can they walk without limping? Are they panting frequently and need to rest or have a water break? Are they getting stickers in their fur or burs in paws?
- Consider using paw shoes for hot trails that can burn their pads or rocky paths that can cause cuts or scrapes.
- Assess your dog’s health before every outing. Consider your pet’s age, health, and fitness level before heading out.
- Carry pet supplies such as a collapsible water bowl, dog-appropriate food and snacks and extra waste bags.
- Do not leave your dog unattended anywhere in the park, even for short periods.
- Do not leave pets in unattended vehicles or tied to an object such as a post or tree. Temperatures in vehicle cabins can soar to dangerous levels even on cool days and cause dehydration or death.
- Visit parks during off-peak periods to avoid crowds that can cause pet anxiety or separation from owners. It also helps pet owners find convenient parking to shorten the distance your canine friend needs to walk for trail heads and park facilities.
For the information on pets in National Parks go to:
National Park tips for hiking with pets
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/trails/hiking-with-pets.htm
National Park Pet codes and restrictions
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-36/chapter-I/part-2#2.15
Become A BARK Ranger
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/pets/be-a-bark-ranger.htm
National Parks offer programs for you and your dog to become good stewards of our nation’s national resources. The programs are led by rangers and help visitors understand the details about the park, especially from your pet’s point of view.
BARK is an acronym for:
- Bag your pet’s waste
- Always leash your pet
- Respect wildlife
- Know where you can go
National parks have lots of distractions and stimulus for dogs. BARK programs help you keep your pet, other visitors and wildlife safe. The program is specific to the park and in some cases may involve a guided walk. They include dos and don’ts but also help you understand the topography and challenges.
NORTHEAST
1. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Pennsylvania/New Jersey
https://www.nps.gov/dewa/index.htm
Located along a 40-mile stretch of the Delaware River it passes through a ridge of the Appalachian Mountains. A highlight is the scenic drive along Route 611 which offers visitors a panoramic view of the cliffs and colorful treetops.
Hikers can explore 100 miles of trails winding through the forest's rugged mountains and along the river. The McDade Trail is popular with dog walkers. It offers a 31-mile path through wooded areas and open fields. Kayaking and canoeing on the Delaware River allow visitors to experience the national park's aquatic surroundings.
Dog notes: DWGNRA hiking trails provide the perfect opportunity for owners and their dogs to take beautiful photos against a colorful backdrop of red, orange and yellow leaves. Visitors are expected to bring water for the trek as natural water sources might not be safe for their pets to drink.
2. Marsh-Billings Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont
https://www.nps.gov/mabi/index.htm
Conservationist George Marsh Billings owned the iconic mansion before it was handed over to the Rockefeller family. The building is filled with original furnishings, art and a remarkable collection of conservation literature. Visitors can also wander through 643 acres of woodlands and gardens with autumn's beauty on full display.
Ranger-led programs include guided hikes and educational tours that delve into the park's history and conservation efforts. The park has several trails for dogs to enjoy the crisp autumn air and crunch of leaves underfoot.
Dog notes: MBRNHP allows hikers and their furry friends to connect with nature on the South Peak Loop Trail and Woodstock Carriage Road. Visitors are advised to look out for wildlife while on walks with their dogs, ensuring they stay calm and under control.
MIDWEST
3. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
https://www.nps.gov/indu/index.htm
The park extends across 15 miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, providing a blend of riverine and forested areas. A diverse ecosystem of sandy beaches and windswept dunes creates a stunning backdrop for a perfect autumn getaway. History lovers can visit the Century of Progress Architectural District and see five homes built for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair.
Visitors can bring treats and toys and hide them along the Glenwood Dunes Trail and Paul H. Douglas Trail. Both paths cut through expansive woodlands allow dogs to use their natural tracking instincts.
Dog notes: IDNP offers park guests and their canine companions the chance to explore the West Beach and Cowles Bog Trails. The park also has beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan where dogs can cool off and splash in the water on hot autumn days.
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
https://www.nps.gov/cuva/index.htm
This park has 33,000 acres of deep ravines, wetlands, waterfalls and forest trails for visitors to explore. The 65-foot Brandywine Waterfall is one of the main attractions. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Beaver Marsh to see turtles, herons and beavers in their natural habitat.
Travelers can also explore over 125 miles of surrounding areas including picnic spots, historical sites and hiking trails. The Ledge Trail is a favorite because of its scenic beauty and accessible location for hikers of all levels. Standford and Plateau Trails allow people to enjoy their treks with their canine companions.
Dog notes: CVNP holds guided nature walks where visitors get to learn about the park’s history in the company of other dog walkers. The pets are not allowed to play in the water. Owners are permitted to bring their four-legged companions on canoeing trips.
SOUTHEAST
5. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm
Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the world, featuring over 400 miles of underground passageways. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours ranging from family-friendly walks to deep cave explorations.
Dogs are not allowed inside the caves. Cedar Sink and Heritage Trails are excellent alternatives for visitors and their dogs to enjoy the autumn scenery together. Above ground the park offers 80 miles of trails for leisure strolls and challenging hikes through the hills.
Dog notes: MMCNP is home to the 6.9-mile Maple Spring Trail which cuts through a dense forest of towering trees and autumn wildflowers. It is important to bring water and dog treats for the long walk and be prepared to turn back when tired. Due to fluctuating temperatures owners are advised to bring along a doggy sweater for canines sensitive to cold weather.
6. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
https://www.nps.gov/cong/index.htm
Situated about 20 miles from Columbia, the park’s floodplain forest is resplendent with changing leaves that add shades of gold and amber to an autumn landscape. The park is a haven for deer, wild boar and a variety of bird species.
Trekkers can use the 2.4-mile Boardwalk Loop Trail which offers an elevated view of the forest. The Weston Lake Loop and Kingsnake Trail are open for dogs to enjoy the park's natural beauty. Kayaking and canoeing are popular in the fall when water levels are more stable. The Harry Hampton Visitor Center is an ideal reference point for first-time visitors to navigate the park.
Dog notes: CNP’s 1.5 mile Oakridge trail provides new scents from fallen leaves and wildlife for dogs to stimulate their senses. Owners should be mindful of the park’s natural habitat as alligators are often sighted in nearby waters. The National Park Services requires dogs to be on leash at all times for their safety.
SOUTH
7. Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri
https://www.nps.gov/ozar/index.htm
Nestled in the Ozark Highlands, this national park spans 80,000 acres of open wilderness. Long-distance trails pass through the park offering a spectacular view of falling foliage. Visitors and their dogs can follow the Alley Spring trail for shorter distances.
The calm waters of the Current and Jacks Fork rivers are ideal for picnics and water sports. Big Spring which is one of the largest springs in the U.S. is also a popular area for hikers and campers. The spring’s water has a unique blue-green hue due to its high mineral content.
Dog notes: ONSR is a wonderful place for guests and their four-legged companions to enjoy autumn together. Alley Spring and Miller’s Cave Trails allow dogs to spend plenty of time outdoors because they offer cushioned trails that are gentle on a dog’s paws and joints.
SOUTHWEST
8. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
https://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm
Wood fossils dating back over 200 million years offer a glimpse into its prehistoric past. A portion of the park is located in the Painted Desert. An arid area littered with logs embedded with minerals that generate vibrant red, orange, pink and purple colors.
Puerco Pueblo Trail offers a chance to explore the ancient ruins of a 600-year-old Native American village. Other popular destinations are the Blue Mesa and Crystal Forest where visitors can examine hardened wood pieces with sparking quartz crystals.
Dog notes: Petrified Forest National Park offers a range of dog-friendly hiking options including short walks, lengthy trails and flatlands that are easy on dog paws and joints. The open landscape gives them plenty of room to play, explore and connect with the natural environment. Bring plenty of water as the dry desert air can be dehydrating and there are no watering holes.
9. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
https://www.nps.gov/gumo/index.htm
The park is home to Guadalupe Peak—the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet. El Capitan is one of the world's famous cliffs and a favorite destination for rock climbers. The vertical rock formation is a towering 3,000 feet from the valley floor.
McKittrick Canyon is an important place to visit. A 4.8-mile pathway takes visitors through a canyon filled with maple and oak trees against a background of craggy cliffs. With over 80 miles of trail, mule, deer, elk and mountain lions can be viewed in their natural habitat. The autumn season is also a good time to spot plenty of birds escaping the cold weather for warmer territories.
Dog notes: GMNP is a fantastic spot for dogs and their owners. Dogs are allowed in areas accessible by vehicles including parking areas, picnic areas and campgrounds including Pine Springs. The open space is perfect for owners to test their frisbee skills with their pets. Dogs are not allowed on most trails and are prohibited in the backcountry.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
10. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
https://www.nps.gov/lavo/index.htm
Situated in the Cascade Range, the park covers 10,000 acres known for its volcanic landscapes, alpine meadows and alluring forest fields. The area is also home to steaming fumaroles, clear mountain lakes and Lassen Peak—the largest plug-dome volcano in the world.
Hikers can take in the vibrant landscape from a boardwalk that hovers above hissing steam vents and bubbling spring water. The peaceful waters of Manzanita Lake are for fun seekers looking to fish or relax by the lakeside. Dog walks are restricted to only paved roads and campgrounds.
Dog notes: LVNP offers restricted access to trails because of the presence of an active volcano in the area. The Manzanita Lake allows experienced dog swimmers to take a dip in the water overlooking Lassen Peak. Guest accommodations outside the park offer access to nearby dog-friendly trails.
11. North Cascades National Park, Washington
https://www.nps.gov/noca/index.htm
This park is part of the larger North Cascades National Complex and includes Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. The woodlands offer sizzling scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Attractions include pictorial landscapes, jagged peaks and natural lakes. In autumn, hikers can afford to explore many paths that follow through forests and rivers. Wildlife watchers should look out for beer, deer and birds preparing for the winter season.
Dog notes: NCNP has a vast trail network with dog-friendly hikes through meadows, forests and rivers. Ross and Diablo Lakes are popular spots for dogs and their owners to enjoy a picnic by the shore. The lakes are also ideal rest stops for canines to cool off and stay hydrated during longer hikes.
12. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
https://www.nps.gov/crla/index.htm
This area is surrounded by sheer cliffs that rise to 2,000 feet and a lake set in an ancient caldera formed by the collapse of a volcano 7,000 years ago. A popular attraction is the Scenic Rim Drive—a 33-mile loop around the caldera with wonderful views of the lake from different overlooks.
Crater Lake has 90 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls in the park to challenging backcountry routes. Popular trails include Garfield Peak Trail and Mount Scott Trail. Both trails offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Dogs are welcome on both the Pinnacles Trail and Pacific Crest Trail for plenty of exercise.
Dog notes: CLNP limits the areas dogs can explore in a bid to protect the local ecosystem. One of the best spots is the Pacific Crest Trail. Dogs love this trail because of the wide-open space and earthy organic smells from decaying leaves they always find intriguing. The Godfrey Glen Trail–a one-mile loop through a forest is another haven for dogs to enjoy nature's paradise.
Other National Park destinations for dog lovers
13. Lake Clark National Park, Alaska
https://www.nps.gov/lacl/index.htm
Hiking, backpacking trips, exploring beaches and shorelines are only some fun activities dogs and their owners can enjoy at this remote park.
14. Wrangell-St Elias National Park, Alaska
https://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm
The largest national park in the U.S. spans across 13 million acres and offers dogs a chance to experience new sights, sounds and smells.
15. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona
https://www.nps.gov/orpi/index.htm
Several trails and scenic drives require dogs to be on leash to make it easier for visits or fun activities at the park.
Visit the NPS.gov website for detailed information for the best experiences, current road conditions and visitor center hours. The site’s interactive map is a valuable tool for locating parks close to home, dog-friendly trails and fun attractions for a trip to remember.
16. Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona
https://www.nps.gov/chir/index.htm
The monument has multiple dog-friendly hiking trails that pass through scenic canyons and rock formations shaped by ancient volcanic activity.
17. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
https://www.nps.gov/hosp/index.htm
The park offers several hiking trails like the Grand Promenade. It is located close to pet-friendly facilities for owners to leave their dogs and visit the historic bath houses of healing waters.
18. Channel Islands National Park, California
https://www.nps.gov/chis/index.htm
This park features five remote islands off the southern California coast. It offers several beach areas for owners to exercise and bond with their dogs.
19. Pinnacles National Park, California
https://www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm
Dogs are not allowed on most trails to protect wildlife and natural resources. They are restricted to a few trails like the Pinnacles Campground Loop and Old Pinnacles Trail.
20. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm
The landscape provides plenty of room for dogs to explore and play in the open environment. Owners must ensure their pets take breaks and stay hydrated.
21. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm
It has campgrounds for dogs and their owners to stay for a few days while walking through deep gorges, prehistoric rock formations and scenic viewpoints.
22. Capitol Reef National Park, Colorado
https://www.nps.gov/care/index.htm
Capitol Reef National Park includes the 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold in the earth’s crust. The Fruita Campground is pet-friendly and allows dogs and their owners to spend valuable time underneath the stars.
22. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
https://www.nps.gov/isro/index.htm
The secluded park offers a wilderness setting, backcountry trails and campgrounds for dogs to bask in outdoor adventures.
23. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
https://www.nps.gov/voya/index.htm
This area is known for its vast natural landscapes which offer plenty of space for dogs to explore, play and connect with nature.
24. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Tennessee/Kentucky
https://www.nps.gov/biso/index.htm
This park features large open areas for dogs to spend an extended time with nature and experience wildlife.
25. Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
https://www.nps.gov/wica/index.htm
A combination of caves, prairies and forests provide a rich and stimulating environment for dogs to enjoy their outdoor adventures.
26. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nnlandmarks/site.htm?Site=PADU-TX
This is the second largest canyon in the U.S. It has numerous trails of different difficulty levels including the Palo Duro Canyon Trail and Lighthouse Trail. Dog owners should exercise caution for the safety of their pets: bring plenty of water, avoid lengthy walks that can damage your pet’s health especially on warm days. There are no water sources available along the trail. For visitors staying overnight, State park cabins do not allow pets.
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