Dog Friendly Hiking Trails Near Knoxville Tn – Hiking in the woods with our four-legged companions is one of life’s simplest pleasures, but not all hiking trails welcome canine companions. Below we offer a selection of hiking trails in the Smokies that are suitable for every member of the family, even the furry ones.
About two miles long, the Gatlinburg Trail is relatively flat and winds through a wooded area. This is one of two trails in Smoky Mountains National Park that allows visitors to bring their dogs. The path offers a beautiful view of the Maliot Gulab river and crossing the bridge. History buffs will enjoy the chimneys from the foundations of several old houses along the way.
Dog Friendly Hiking Trails Near Knoxville Tn
The Holston River Weir, also known as the Holston River Weir, is an animal-friendly recreation area. It offers several trails along the river that range from 0.2 to 1.8 miles in length. The relatively flat areas have parking and encourage pet owners to bring well-behaved dogs on leashes to explore the trails.
The Dog-friendly Guide To Knoxville
Along the French Broad River, the Seven Islands Bird Sanctuary boasts many dog trails. There are 190 species of birds that call 416 hectares of land home. This beautiful peninsula has more than eight miles of nature trails, hills and views of the Smoky Mountains. Located about 19 miles east of Knoxville, it is a popular destination for hikers, fishermen, paddlers and nature lovers.
The Rufus Morgan Falls Trail is a moderate one-mile hike in the Nantahala National Forest that usually takes about 40 minutes with your dog. Although the route is in a remote area, it is a very popular place and can be very crowded at peak times. There is smooth terrain and several water sources for your four-legged adventurers. Official rule – dogs must be returned on a leash from August 1 to April 15, but under control in all seasons of the year.
Dogs are allowed on all hiking trails in the Pisgah National Forest as long as they are kept on a leash. Known as a scenic area with waterfalls, mile-high peaks and forested slopes, it covers a total of half a million hectares. Dog owners are reminded to clean up any debris left behind to preserve the natural beauty and cleanliness of the area. The trail to Barnardsville is beautiful and has many entry points for the southern Appalachians.
Along with the Gatlinburg Trail, this is the only trail in GSMNP that allows dogs. After the drive to Cherokee, pet owners can take their dogs for a walk along the 1.5-mile Okanoolufty River Trail, which overlooks the river and takes hikers to Cherokee Bay. Because this hike is flat, it’s a great choice for beginners and family members of all ages and skill levels.
Take Fido Along
Note that the Catawba Falls Trail will be closed until Spring 2023 for major improvements, but it’s worth putting on your long-term dog walking bucket list and the renovations will make it more enjoyable. The trail has several bridges and a stream crossing that ends at a scenic waterfall where everyone, including your dog, can play.
Dry Falls is a popular waterfall located a few miles from Highlands. This place offers visitors a rare opportunity to walk safely behind the flow of water. This 75-foot waterfall in the Nantahala National Forest cascades over a cliff, allowing you to walk behind the falls and stay mostly dry. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
The Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail is a 35-mile multi-use trail, one of 1,600 rail trails maintained by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that creates a national network of trails from former railroad tracks and connecting corridors. Once a disused railway line, it is now a great place to walk and explore with your dog. The full route runs from Abingdon to Whitetop near the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and the North Carolina line.
This 400-acre park accepts dogs on leashes and offers bike trails, camping, picnic pavilions and softball fields. Sugar Hollow Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. It is a popular place to spend a day or weekend with outdoor activities. Sugar Hollow Park recently created a new trail map detailing many hiking, running and biking trails.
Hiking Roan Mountain State Park: The Best Time To Visit!
This dog-friendly park features 1,029 acres of exciting recreation, a 53-acre lake set among mountain views, and trails to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. Pets must be under control and on a short, tight leash. Dog owners must be polite to other guests and clean up after their pets. Entry is charged per vehicle.
Anna Ruby Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the middle of the Chattahoochee National Forest. This scenic area is accessible via a half-mile dog-friendly trail in Unicoi State Park. The ample recreation area offers picnic areas, hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The visitor center hosts programs and public activities ranging from stargazing to watching fire foxes, insect larvae that glow in the dark.
This dog run is located in Otto, near Dillard. The loop road is over a mile long and leads to a beautiful waterfall. Dogs are welcome in the scenic area and will enjoy a refreshing swim at the end. Dog owners are reminded to clean up any debris left on the trail. Here in Knoxville, Southern hospitality extends to locals and visitors alike, and four-legged friends are no exception. In fact, Knoxville is one of the most dog-friendly cities, so whether you’re looking to eat, visit, or explore the local area, your kids will never feel at home in the Scruffy City. From hikes, parks, and backyards to restaurants, breweries, and shopping, we’ve compiled this list of favorite places to take your buddies on a hike!
| PetSafe’s new dog park in Knoxville, Concord Park, sits on nearly four acres with paved and natural walking trails that wrap around, as well as a dock with river access where pups can play. They have special dog fountains and even a dog shower to wash your dog off before getting back in the car!
Discover The Best Dog-friendly Glamping Near Knoxville, Tennessee
Fort Dickerson, one of the best-preserved earthen forts from the Civil War era, is located in a charming city park with a wading lake and more than 4 miles of nature trails where you and your pooch will have plenty of opportunities to to walk , run or refresh.
For wilderness adventures with your dog without leaving the city, Ijams Nature Center welcomes four-legged friends year-round with more than 12 miles of trails that meander through Knoxville’s extensive urban wilderness network and Mead Quarry, where pups can soak.
The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum sits on 47 acres of the former Howell Nursery, with walking trails and exhibit gardens for you and your canine companion to wander. Often overlooked as a place to bring your dog, this is dog friendly and will make the perfect getaway for you and your four-legged friend.
This large park is a delight for dog parents with greenery, walking paths, river views and terraces and gardens for plenty of outdoor enjoyment. And did we mention those great views of the Great Smoky Mountains?
Hiking With My Dog
@sevenislandsstatepark | If you’re looking for a quieter getaway with spectacular scenery, the Seven Islands Bird Sanctuary is a great place to bring your dog. Although it’s only half an hour from the city, it feels like a million miles away with beautiful scenery, serene wildlife, plenty of trails to explore and even a few places for your dog to swim.
@utgardensknoxville | The official botanical garden of Tennessee, Utah Gardens is a hidden gem among Knoxville’s dog-friendly getaways, boasting a variety of native plants that line its beautiful paths and lush green lawns. We highly recommend taking your pooch for a fun day out to explore this urban paradise.
@worldsfairparkevents | On any given day, you’ll find puppies playing, catching bees, and hanging out with four-legged friends on its 15 plus acres of greenery. With a children’s play area and plenty of picnic space, it’s a great place to bring the whole family, including your dog, for some fresh air and fun.
| Known for its spectacular Smoky Mountains National Park, House Mountain is the highest peak in all of Knox County, providing a serious workout for you and your dog. This hike involves rock climbing and can be challenging for less experienced or older dogs, so make sure your dog is in top shape before you go. But if you’re even a little worried, we recommend bringing a dog leash for extra safety in the more difficult-to-navigate areas!
Top 10 Best Dog Friendly Hiking Trails In Cleveland, Tn
| Three Falls at Bruce Creek Racecourse to the Devils is a favorite place for two- and four-legged friends, featuring puppets.
