Dog-Friendly Hikes in Shenandoah National Park: 5 Trails You’ll Love

Traveling with your pup is one of the best parts of the RV lifestyle. When Lisa and I explore new places, we always keep an eye out for trails that Sierra can enjoy too. Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a gem for dog lovers. Unlike many U.S. National Parks that limit pets, Shenandoah actually allows dogs on almost all of its 500+ miles of trails—a rare treat.

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Tip: We use AllTrails to research trails, check recent conditions, and track our hikes. It’s an essential app for exploring Shenandoah with your pup.

Here are five of the best dog-friendly hikes to explore with your furry friend.

1. Hawksbill Summit Trail – Dog-Friendly Highest Peak in Shenandoah

• Length: 1.6 miles round trip (via Upper Hawksbill Trail)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Upper Hawksbill (mile 46.7)

At 4,051 feet, Hawksbill is the park’s highest peak. The trail is wide, shaded, and manageable for most dogs. Once you reach the summit, you’ll find a stone observation platform with panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley. It’s one of the best sunrise or sunset spots in the park—so if your pup is an early riser, this is the hike to do.

Check trail conditions and reviews on AllTrails before heading out.

2. Blackrock Summit via Trayfoot Mountain and Appalachian Trail

• Length: 1.1 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trailhead: Blackrock parking (mile 84.4 on Skyline Drive)

This is one of the easiest big view hikes in Shenandoah. The short loop takes you to a rocky summit with incredible 360° vistas over the Shenandoah Valley and Trayfoot Mountain. The summit’s boulder field is fun for dogs to scramble around, but keep them leashed since there are drop-offs. It’s a perfect hike for sunrise or sunset with your pup.

3. Rose River Falls Trail – A Dog-Friendly Waterfall Hike

• Length: 4 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Fishers Gap Overlook (mile 49.4)

If your pup loves water, this trail is a must. The hike winds through lush forest and leads to a 67-foot waterfall. The trail crosses streams and passes smaller cascades along the way, making it a cool, refreshing option for warmer days. Just bring a towel—chances are your dog will want to splash around.

4. Mary’s Rock via Panorama or Meadow Spring

• Length: 3.7 miles round trip from Panorama, or 2.9 miles from Meadow Spring
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Panorama (near Thornton Gap) (mile 31.6) or Meadow Spring parking (mile 33.5)

Mary’s Rock is a must-do hike for you and your pup. The summit sits at 3,514 feet and offers one of the best views in the park — sweeping panoramas of the Shenandoah Valley and Skyline Drive. The trail is rocky in sections, so watch your dog’s paws, but the forested climb provides plenty of shade.

If you’re short on time, the Meadow Spring route shaves nearly a mile off the hike while still delivering the same jaw-dropping overlook. Either way, Mary’s Rock is a bucket-list Shenandoah hike that’s perfect for adventurers with four-legged companions.

Pro tip: Check conditions and trail maps on AllTrails before heading out. It’s especially helpful here since parking can be tight on busy weekends.

5. Limberlost Trail – Easy Dog-Friendly Hike for All Ages

• Length: 1.3 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy, fully accessible
• Trailhead: Limberlost Trail parking (mile 43)

The Limberlost Trail is perfect if you’re looking for something flat and easy. It’s a fully accessible loop with packed gravel, wooden boardwalks, and bridges. The trail winds through beautiful hemlock, oak, and maple forests, making it a peaceful stroll. Great for senior dogs or those with mobility challenges.

Gear Recommendations for Dog-Friendly Hikes

A little preparation goes a long way toward making your dog-friendly hike safe and enjoyable. Here are some items I recommend bringing along:

• Harness & Leash: A sturdy harness like the Ruffwear Front Range paired with a 6-foot leash gives you better control while being comfortable for your dog.
• Collapsible Water Bowl: Lightweight and easy to clip to your pack. Kurgo’s Collapsible Bowl is a great choice.
• Dog Backpack: If your pup is up for it, a Ruffwear Approach Pack lets them carry their own water and snacks.
• Paw Protection: Trails can get rocky and hot in summer. Musher’s Secret Paw Wax or dog booties help protect sensitive paws.
• First Aid Kit: A compact pet first aid kit ensures you’re ready for scrapes, ticks, or other minor injuries.

For humans, don’t forget trekking poles (helpful on steep descents), plenty of water, and a camera to capture those Shenandoah views.

And don’t forget digital tools! We always use AllTrails to navigate and discover dog-friendly trails in Shenandoah and elsewhere.

Tips for Hiking Shenandoah with Dogs

• Leash up: Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
• Bring water: Streams are available, but always carry fresh water for your pup.
• Watch for wildlife: Black bears and deer are common. Keep your dog close and under control.
• Leave no trace: Pack out all waste—yes, that includes dog waste bags.

Trails Where Pets Are Not Allowed

Shenandoah is one of the most dog-friendly National Parks in the U.S., but there are a few exceptions. Out of more than 500 miles of trails, fewer than 20 miles are closed to pets.

Here are the trails where dogs are not permitted:

• Fox Hollow Trail (mile 4.6)
• Stony Man Trail (mile 41.7)
  • Note: the first section follows the Appalachian Trail, where dogs are allowed. But you cannot take the blue-blazed spur to the summit with a pet.
• Limberlost Trail (mile 43)
• Post Office Junction to Old Rag Shelter
• Old Rag Ridge Trail
• Old Rag Saddle Trail
• Ridge Access Trail (Old Rag area)
• Dark Hollow Falls Trail (mile 50.7)
• Story of the Forest Trail (mile 51)
• Bearfence Mountain Trail (mile 56.4)
• Frazier Discovery Trail (mile 79.5)

So while you do need to plan carefully around these trails, the good news is that over 480 miles remain open to you and your pup — making Shenandoah one of the most pet-friendly National Parks in America.

Plan Your Hikes with AllTrails

We recommend AllTrails for exploring Shenandoah’s trails. With GPS maps, trail reviews, and real-time updates, it’s the best way to find dog-friendly hikes and stay on track.

Final Thoughts on Dog-Friendly Hikes in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park stands out as one of the most dog-friendly National Parks in the country. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, enjoying a peaceful forest stroll, or standing on the park’s highest peak, you and your pup can experience it together. No matter what trail you do with your dog, they’ll be happy they got to go and get worn out.

For full-time RVers like us, having so many dog-accessible trails in one park is a rare gift. Pair your hikes with a drive along Skyline Drive, camp under the stars, and make memories with your four-legged travel buddy that you’ll never forget.

If you’ve visited Shenandoah with your dog, I’d love to hear about your favorite trails. Drop a comment below and let’s swap stories from the trail.

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