With its abundant trails and stunning landscapes, Asheville offers an ideal destination for dog owners who love to explore the great outdoors with their furry companions. In this article, we will guide you through some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Asheville that can provide breathtaking scenery and offer refreshing water sources for your four-legged friends to cool off and play in the summertime heat.
- Bent Creek Experimental Forest: Located just a short drive from downtown Asheville, Bent Creek Experimental Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs. This expansive forest boasts an extensive network of trails, including the popular Lake Powhatan Recreation Area trail system. Along the trails, you'll find creeks and streams where your pup can splash around and quench their thirst.
- DuPont State Recreational Forest: DuPont State Recreational Forest offers a plethora of dog-friendly trails amidst stunning waterfalls and pristine forests. The Triple Falls trail is a must-visit, featuring cascading waterfalls and a picturesque swimming hole where your dog can take a dip. The water levels here are generally calm and inviting for a doggie dip. Hooker Falls is another crowd-pleaser with a large pool at the bottom. There are plenty of opportunities for water play and scenic enjoyment. Fun Fact: The movie Last of the Mohicans was filmed at Hooker Falls!
- Pisgah National Forest: Pisgah National Forest is a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The Graveyard Fields Loop trail is particularly popular, offering breathtaking vistas, beautiful waterfalls, and natural swimming holes for your dog to enjoy. Or, in the Mills River area, the South Mills River Trail offers a long, scenic trail with multiple river crossings off the beaten path.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Stretching over 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region. Numerous pull-offs and overlooks provide access to shorter trails, streams, and stunning views.
- Catawba Falls: For the more adventurous dogs and owners, Catawba Falls provides a beautiful and refreshing swimming experience. Located in the Pisgah National Forest, this trail offers a 2.1 mile hike meandering along the Catawba River. The lower falls have a small pool that's perfect for a doggie paddle. Be aware that the terrain can be a bit rocky and the current strong after heavy rains, so always exercise caution.
- Warren Wilson College Trails: Nestled in Swannanoa Valley, the Warren Wilson College Trails offer a range of dog-friendly paths that wind through lush forests and meandering streams. With multiple trail options, you and your furry friend can explore the campus grounds while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
- Azalea Dog Park: This park is located in East Asheville, right next to the Swannonoa river. Owners can let their pets play in the shallow areas in parts of the river - but always remember to keep a close eye on your furry friend as the current can be strong occasionally.
- French Broad River Dog Park has access spots for dogs to get their paws wet and swim. It features a 2.8 mile paved trail, picnic areas, a fenced in dog park, and other fun amenities.
So, grab your hiking boots, leash up your pup, and embark on a memorable adventure in Asheville's beautiful nature scenery. With these dog-friendly swimming spots, you can ensure your pup has as much fun as you do in Asheville, and you can both stay cool!
Barkwells Is a Great Home Base for Your Next Outdoor Adventure!
If you and your dogs are outdoor lovers and you are looking for a pet-centric retreat where your pup can safely run off-leash, then look no further than Barkwells, The Dog Lover's Vacation Retreat. We have over ten acres of fenced open meadowland between Asheville and Brevard.
We offer everything you and your dogs need to enjoy the comforts of home, along with access to a wide variety of activities and amenities, including large private ponds and acres of fenced-in meadows. At Barkwells, we have plenty of space for your dogs to explore in a safe and secure environment.
For reservations or more information about our dog lovers' getaway, get in touch with us or visit our website.
