One of the things that visitors love about visiting the Smokies is that they are pet-friendly. However, there are a few things you should know before you and Fido visit this fun place. If you plan to hit the trails with your four-legged friend, read on to learn more! Here is a list of 3 things you should know when hiking in the Smoky Mountains with your dog:
1. There Are Only 2 Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails
There are only 2 pet-friendly hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains. One of them is the Gatlinburg Trail on the Tennessee side. It has a round-trip distance of 3.8 miles and has flat paved terrain. Hikers will cross the Little Pigeon River using one of the longest footbridges in the area. Other things to look out for include a chimney from an old homestead and fascinating rock features. As for the North Carolina side, the Oconaluftee River Trail is the other pet-friendly trail. It has a roundtrip distance of 3 miles which follows along the trail’s namesake. The terrain is similar to that of the Gatlinburg Trail. If you hike in the warmer months, admire the more than 40 species of wildflowers that bloom in the area each spring. There are also some historical remnants, one of which is the Davis House.
2. Keep Your Dog on a Short Leash
An important rule to follow when hiking in the Smoky Mountains with your dog is to keep them on a short leash that measures no more than 6 feet. This is for the safety of yourself and your pet as well as other visitors. Additionally, it will keep your dog from running into the path of other wildlife. You’ll be glad to know that bigger wildlife, such as black bears, are very accustomed to all the activity. With that being said, they will leave you alone when you stay far away. This is a distance of at least 150 feet. It is also good to keep an eye out for signs of animal activity. These include trackings, droppings, and overturned logs.
3. The Picnic Areas and Campgrounds Are Pet-Friendly
Along with the Gatlinburg and Oconaluftee River Trails, the picnic areas and campgrounds are also pet-friendly. The picnic areas are a great place to stop after your hike. You can have a snack and give Fido a well-deserved drink of water. Keep in mind that some picnic areas may have hiking trails nearby that are not pet-friendly. If you want to spend even more time in the Smokies after your hike or picnic, plan a camping trip! Pets are allowed on the campgrounds in the national park. A great option is the frontcountry campgrounds. Campers stay near their cars which makes for easy access to supplies. Along with keeping your pet on a short leash, you must clean up after them. Thank you for helping us keep the area beautiful for years to come!
Now you know more about hiking in the Smoky Mountains with your dog! Want more information? Check out our list of places dogs are allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
