18 Dog-Friendly New England Fall Destinations
Posted by Ben Pollack on 10th October 2018
Editor's Note: This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated.
Fall brings an array of colors to tree lines throughout New England. There is no shortage of picnic areas, hiking trails, and national parks in the area. However, not all of these places allow dogs. We’re here to help you find the best destinations where you and your furry friend can enjoy the foliage and natural beauty of New England this fall.
Connecticut
The Cascades at Lake Mohigan, Fairfield
Located in Fairfield along the Gold Coast of Connecticut, this off-leash park has trails, creeks, and benches surrounding Lake Mohigan. There are bins for doggie waste bags, so don’t forget your Duty Bag.
Winslow Dog Park, Westport
With on and off-leash areas, as well as walking trails, fields, and gardens, your pup will have plenty of space to run around and socialize with other dogs while you enjoy the foliage.
Peterson Park & Mattatuck Trail, Wolcott
The park is located next to the extensive Mattatuck Trail that offers over 35 miles of rivers and outlooks.
Maine
Acadia National Park
Only a short drive from Bar Harbour, Acadia National Park sits over 100 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails and campgrounds to explore in this historic national park.
Hinckley Park, South Portland
On-leash walking around two scenic ponds and a number of looped trails through wooded areas is free of charge at the park.
Little Long Pond Leash-Free Area, Bar Harbour
There are freshwater ponds and streams for plenty of off-leash water fun. Bar Harbour is rich in local culture with farmer’s markets and art exhibits. Make sure to visit the area during your New England trip.
Massachusetts
Stodder's Neck, Hingham
Water surrounds three sides of the park where dogs and their owners can swim and enjoy the scene. This park is off-leash-friendly and offers tons of grassy space for dogs to run around and play together.
Vietnam Veteran's Park, Billerica
This is a new off-leash dog park set to open in Fall 2017! The trails and main area of the existing park still allow dogs on-leash.
Fresh Pond Reservation Dog Park, Cambridge
Walk along this gorgeous reservation with your pup off-leash before letting him or her go for a swim in the pond.
New Hampshire
Franconia Notch State Park, Lincoln
With some challenging hiking trails and flume gorges, it is essential to keep your dog on a leash or under strict voice command. Franconia Notch has some of the best fall-time nature hikes in the area.
Oliverian Trail, Conway
This 6.7 mile rail-trail is rated as moderate for hiking and is close in proximity to dog-friendly hotels such as: Spruce Moose Lodge and Cottages, North Conway Mountain Inn, and Red Jacket Mountain View.
Sandy Beach (Gilmore Pond), Jaffrey
During the week, Gilmore Pond is not crowded and has great water access for swimming with your dog.
Rhode Island
Fort Adams State Park, Newport
Your dog can follow along as you check out this historic fort. There is also nearby beach access.
Chase Farms, Lincoln
90 acres of open green fields and hills allow your dog to explore and get some exercise. They can cool off in the nearby lake afterwards.
Cliff Walk, Newport
The Cliff Walk is a National Recreation Trail in a National Historic District. This pleasant ocean-side walk starts near Easton’s Beach and transitions into moderate terrain as it stretches more south. Walk past the impressive mansions while taking in the view of this historic area.
Vermont
Dog Mountain, Saint Johnsbury
Dog Mountain is a 150 acre farm that has been transformed into a social hot spot for dogs and their owners. Complete with swimming ponds, hiking trails, and October Dogfest in the fall, this is a must-see location in New England.
Mills Riverside Park, Jericho
Enjoy the 216 acres of on and off-leash meadows and wooded trails. Watch for the signs that indicate if your pup can be off leash.
Smugglers Notch State Park, Stowe
Located in the beautiful Green Mountains, Smugglers Notch State Park provides you with a large variety of trails and incredible views. There are plenty of streams, waterfalls, and ponds, where your pooch can cool down after hiking the trails with you.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway on the coast or an adventurous hiking trip through the mountains this Fall, New England is abundant with incredible foliage and natural scenery to behold with your furry friend wherever you go. With only a little research beforehand, you and your dog can visit some of the Northeast’s most beautiful pet-friendly landscapes.
Do you have a favorite fall New England destination with your dog? Let us know!
Ben Pollack is a Kurgo Brand Ambassador, attending events throughout New England at breweries and beyond. He lives in New Hampshire and is pursuing a degree at the University of New Hampshire.
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