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The Appalachian Trail
Hike The Appalachian Trail With Your Dog
4pts
Hike The Appalachian Trail With Your Dog
Special Interest: CampingHiking
The Appalachian Trail covers 2,189 miles through Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. We consider this to be a destination hike. You only need to hike a portion of it!
Start planning by going to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. An interactive Appalachian Trail Conservancy map is availalble to help you plan your route. The National Park Service also provides updated news and important notifications for hikers.
Please be aware that not all areas allow dogs and most areas require dogs to be on leash. Before you go, do your research on the area you go to and which trails allows dogs. Different rules may apply if you cross state or park boundaries as you may need to board your dog if you go on go backpacking or hiking for an extended period of time.
Dogs are not allowed at: 1) Baxter State Park, Maine 2) Bear Mountain State Park Trailside Museum and Wildlife Center, New York and 3) Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina. Please refer to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for more information regarding pets.
Need tips on preparing your dog for a long hike? The Trek has a great article to help get you started!
Take a picture of your dog at the trailhead you go on. Tell us what time of year you went, how you enjoyed the hike with your dog, and provide any other advice for fellow dog owners!
Help a fellow dog owner! Do you have an adventure story? Contact us and we will link it to this pawtivity or event! Where did you go? What did you do? Please include any useful tips and advice that would help others!
Location: Georgia | North Carolina | Tennessee | Virginia | West Virginia | Maryland | Pennsylvania | New Jersey | New York | Connecticut | Massachusetts | Vermont | New Hampshire | Maine
Activities: Hiking, Walking, Camping, Backpacking
Items Needed: Water, Poop Bags or Shovel, First Aid Kit, Tick Removal Tool, 6 Foot Non-Retractable Leash or Hands-Free Leash, Paw Protection, Reflective Gear On Your Dog, Other Appropriate Gear & Food
Safety: Please consult your vet before hiking with your dog, especially if you have a puppy or a dog that is not fully vaccinated. It's best not to go when it is too cold or hot. Pay attention to your dog's abilities and start slow. Remember to take small and steady water breaks to prevent bloat or water intoxication. And don't forget to check the paws! Watch your footing and steer clear of wild animals. Please follow leash laws and have good recall on your dog. Not all dogs are suitable for long hikes. Please be aware that some wild animals, such as coyotes, may actually be attracted to the presence of a dog. Check the area before you go if hunting is allowed there. If it is, bring an orange vest for you and your dog.
- Backpacking
- Come / Touch
- Hiking
- Sit
- Stay
- Wilderness Camping
Suggested Prerequisites:
- The Beginner’s Guide To Hiking With Dogs
Suggested Articles:
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