Wouldn't having a friend always ready to go on trails and hikes with you be awesome? Then you should get a dog because they love the outdoors, and it helps them grow physically and mentally. You can take them to any park in the city for a regular walk, but the real fun begins on National parks and hiking trails. You can enjoy nature, scenic views, and a great traveling destination and bond immensely with your dog and family. Let's find out.

 

What are Some Restrictions on Dogs in These Parks and Trails?

Most parks allow taking your pet along with you in these parks, but they have few restrictions and specific areas where you can take them. The most widely used rules, called BARK, are a must.

· Here, B stands for bagging any dog waste like food, poop, etc. 

· A is for the leash and always keeping it on them. Most attendants will check the sturdiness of the leash before proceeding further. Don't worry. They have good ones on hand if yours isn't strong enough.

· You must always respect wildlife and don't allow your pet to chase after them or hurt them in any way.

· Finally, you should learn and know the boundaries of your pet. There are certain restrictions that you must adhere to.

1.Gatling Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

This vast park spans over 1200+ kilometers of nature you and your dog can go well in. You can take them on the trail to see the amazing Little Pigeon River, walk the banks with them, cross the river by the footbridge, etc. There is a fantastic trail suitable for dogs where owners can bike, and it isn't too hard as it is primarily flat.

2.Acadia National Park – Maine

In this national park, you have lots of places you can have fun with your dogs, albeit just a few places due to the difficulty of the trails. Your pet can access all these trails if you have a service dog. The BARK rules also apply here, so ensure you have brought enough waste management bags. 

These trails have stunning views as it is located on Mount Desert Island, stretching up to the coast. Enough tracks are going to different opinions that you can come again to enjoy.

3.Rocky Mountain National Park – Denver Colorado

While most of the rules of BARK are the same here, dogs are allowed only on paved trails. Nonetheless, you still get amazing views on these trails because you experience preserved nature with your furry friend. Moreover, you can enjoy different lake views if you take alternate routes on each visit.

You see lovely nature in these trials with wildlife like elks and bighorn sheep. Be prepared in winter as you will need proper gear; otherwise, you and your pet won't be allowed.

4.Yosemite National Park – California

If your dog loves camping with you, this is the perfect park to take him with you to many of the camping sites where dogs are allowed. Most trails and roads are pet friendly, with only a few places restricted, such as the backcountry trails. The BARK rules also apply here, even though it is one of the most highly visited places for dog owners.

 

5.Spruce Creek Trail in Breckenridge – Colorado 

Now the trails in this place are fun as you enjoy multiple alpine lakes along the route. When you or your dog gets tired, chill out and dip in the lake to cool off and relax. The trail is about 14 km long, so you will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and chill alongside the lake.

6.Shenandoah National Park – Virginia

Your pet isn't allowed on the Ranger programs but can enjoy all the nature, waterfalls, and stunning views any time while following BARK rules. The most recommended rocky viewpoint is at the end of Blackrock Summit Loop, where you can spend your afternoon and watch the sun go down. Don't worry; the trail is only 2 km long, so you can quickly return in time.

7.Glacier National Park – Montana 

We recommend this national park because your dogs are more than welcome to "Go to the Sun Road," the most unbelievable trail in the park. You can also enjoy the landmarks left by glaciers long ago and view the remaining 25 glaciers in the distance. For pets, there is a special K9 camp where different dogs can interact and play.

8.Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

What list will be complete without the Wonder of the World, where both of you can awe at the gaping hole of the canyon? The only bummer is that your dog is kept from the canyon's rim so that you can tread the trail around it.

9.Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Ohio

You can enjoy the bike trail and other excellent natural smaller trails, making over 160 km. Your pet isn't allowed in buildings and the East Rim Mountain bike trail. This park is well known for its remarkable flora and fauna, plus for resting under one of its many notable and soothing waterfalls, such as Blue Hen Falls. 

You can go with your family and enjoy many activities besides hiking, including kayaking and golfing.

10.Joshua Tree National Park – California

One of the highest visited parks in the past two years, there is plenty to do with your dogs. See the incredible views of the Oasis of Mara Nature Trail and Bighorn Pass Road for an incredibly scenic drive, or enjoy the night sky every night. The park is full of panoramic views of the desert landscape, but most of the time, your pet is only allowed on the paved trails and roads. The rest of the BARK rules apply here as well.