10 Dog Friendly Road Trips to Take With Your Four-Legged Friend
Going on a road trip can be an unforgettable experience for both you and your furry friend. Traveling with your dog can be a great way to spend time together, explore new destinations, and create memories. That said, it’s essential to plan a trip that’s pet-friendly, so your pooch feels comfortable, safe and happy throughout the journey. Here, we present ten dog-friendly road trips that you and your four-legged friend are sure to enjoy.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway is a beautiful drive overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers stunning views of the coastline. You and your furry friend can enjoy long walks on Carmel’s dog-friendly beaches and explore the charming seaside town of Santa Barbara. There are numerous pet-friendly hotels and restaurants along the way, making this an ideal road trip destination for you and your dog.
2. The Great River Road, Illinois
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River through ten states and offers stunning views of the river and its surrounding landscapes. In Illinois, you can visit the Mississippi Palisades State Park and let your dog run loose across 15 miles of trails that lead alongside the river while you take in the breathtaking scenery. Pet-friendly hotels and restaurants are plentiful, so you won’t have to worry about finding a place to stay or eat.
3. Lincoln Highway, Pennsylvania
The Lincoln Highway is a historic road that passes through Philadelphia and allows you and your dog to explore the state’s countryside and backroads. The town of Gettysburg is just a short drive from Philadelphia and offers a pet-friendly battlefield tour that will educate and engage you and your dog. Pet-friendly hotels dot the area, making it easy to find a place to stay.
4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is an idyllic destination that is perfect for dogs and their owners. Nap on the beach with your furry friend, go for a walk through the picturesque town of Provincetown, or hike in the Cape Cod National Seashore. Boston is a short drive away and offers plenty of pet-friendly hotels and restaurants to expand your trip and add new experiences into the mix.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, located in North Carolina, is a pet-friendly destination that offers breathtaking scenic drives, breweries, dog parks, and hiking trails that both you and your dog will enjoy. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stunning drive with many natural evocations, including waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic spots. A plethora of pet-friendly hotels and restaurants on your route will give you plenty of lodging options.
6. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park, located in Maine, is a must-visit destination filled with beautiful views, including mountains, lakes, and coastal landscapes, that you can explore with your furry friend. Your dog will love playing on the park’s trails, and you will love the awe-inspiring scenery. Pet-friendly hotels and restaurants are available on the way, so you can explore the park at your leisure.
7. Texas Hill Country, Texas
The Texas Hill Country offers a mix of sprawling green hills, colorful wildflowers, and picturesque streams, It is a popular destination for both dog lovers and avid travelers. You and your furry friend can relax and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery. The abundance of dog-friendly establishments in the area makes traveling with your dog in Texas Hill Country very convenient and practical.
8. Scenic Byway 12, Utah
Scenic Byway 12 is an awe-inspiring route that takes you through the seemingly never-ending stunning scenery of southwestern Utah. With several national parks, including Bryce Canyon National Park, and excellent hiking trails, your furry friend will share breathtaking views with you as you explore. There are many pet-friendly hotels on this route, so you won’t have trouble finding a place to stay.
9. The Oregon Trail, Oregon
The Oregon Trail is a historic road that runs through the Columbia River Gorge and boasts many pet-friendly attractions. Enjoy stunning waterfalls, scenic vistas, unique rock formations, and the Pacific coastline, and all these can be experienced with a furry friend. Pet-friendly hotels and restaurants are plentiful on this route, making it easy to plan and travel sans being hassled.
10. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore, located in South Dakota, is an iconic landmark that is surrounded by numerous pet-friendly trails and scenic byways, including the Black Hills National Forest, which offers vast hiking opportunities for you and your furry friend. Don’t forget to see the Crazy Horse Memorial either! Pet-friendly hotels in the area are abundant, so you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to lodging.
Conclusion
With this list of ten pet-friendly road trips, you don’t have to stress unnecessarily over finding a safe and comfortable adventure for you and your furry friend. Regardless of where you go, remember always to plan well in advance and make reservations beforehand. Make sure you understand the rules and restrictions of any parks, beaches, and other dog-friendly attractions you intend to visit. Enjoy your road trip with your four-legged friend and make precious memories together!
