Massachusetts offers a variety of dog-friendly trails that cater to all skill levels and preferences. If you love spending time outdoors with your dog, there are plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails to explore in this beautiful state. You can choose from a variety of stunning landscapes when picking a trail, including scenic lakes, waterfalls, greenery, and coastlines. Keep reading to discover some of the best dog-friendly trails in Massachusetts.
The Bear Hole Reservoir Road Loop is a scenic trail located in West Springfield. This trail runs along the reservoir, giving you and your furry friend enjoyable views (and smells) as you walk. The well-maintained path is suitable for all skill levels, and the natural surroundings provide plenty of opportunities for your pup to explore. If you’re looking for a longer hike, don’t worry—this trail is located in Watershed Land Park, which has several nearby trails that you and Fido can explore.
Highlights:
- 2.6 mi trail with 190 ft elevation gain
- Estimated time to complete: 56 minutes
- Wide, clearly-marked gravel path
- Runs along a pond and several small waterfalls
Cape Cod Canal Bikeway
If you live between Bourne and Sagamore, you and Fido need to check out the Cape Cod Canal Trail. This flat, paved path offers stunning water views as you hike. As you and your pup walk along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful nature sights and other dog-owners and visitors enjoying the area. There are also plenty of benches and picnic areas where you can take a break and enjoy a snack with your dog. This trail is easy to hike in sections, so you and Fido can walk for as long or as little as you prefer.
Highlights:
- 14 mi trail with 127 ft elevation gain
- Estimated time to complete: 4 hours & 5 minutes
- Several benches along the path to take a break at
- Trail is accessible for visitors using strollers and wheelchairs
Charles River Reservation Full Bike Loop
If you’re up for a longer adventure, bring your pup to the Charles River Reservation. The trail is versatile, so you can tackle sections that fit your pace and what you have time for that day. If you want to check out this area but don’t have time for a long hike, visit the Charles River Pathway Short Loop or Southwest Corridor Trail. These trails allow you and Fido to explore the Charles River area without spending all day outside.
Highlights:
- 24.9 mi trail with 298 ft elevation gain
- Estimated time to complete: 7 hours & 21 minutes
- Beautiful water views as trail loops around the Charles River
- Popular trail for running, walking, and biking
Mount Norwottuck
For dog owners up for an adventure, Mount Norwottuck is an excellent option. This trail is located within the Mount Holyoke Range State Park, which has a variety of trails and sights that visitors can explore. This loop trail features some steep sections, providing a good workout for you and Fido. Although this trail is a bit more strenuous, it is well worth the effort when you reach the summit. This trail is perfect for those looking to combine physical activity with the beauty of Massachusetts landscapes. If you’re near Amherst, bring your furry friend to explore this trail.
Highlights:
- 3.6 mi trail with 748 ft elevation gain
- Estimated time to complete: 1 hour & 49 minutes
- Trail leads to the highest peak in the Holyoke range
- Best times to visit are March-November
Graham Trail to Vetter Trail Loop
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hike in Andover that’s not too strenuous, the Graham Trail to Vetter Trail Loop is a great choice. This 4.1-mile loop takes you through lovely wooded areas and offers scenic views of the water. You can enjoy nature at a leisurely pace while walking this trail, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing outing with your pooch. Plus, the variety of terrain keeps things interesting as you hike. You and Fido will walk through wooded areas, open clearings, and wooden stairs and paths.
Highlights:
- 3.3 mi trail with 485 ft elevation gain
- Estimated time to complete: 1 hour & 27 minutes
- Trail gets crowded, so we recommend visiting early in the day
- Popular area for bird watching, hiking, and mountain biking
Ridge Hill Reserve
If you’re near Dartmouth, Ridge Hill Reserve Trail is perfect for a quick and scenic hike. With a well-marked trail that’s just over two miles, it’s an excellent option for a short outing that won’t take up your whole day. As you hike, you and Fido will see grassy hills and beautiful woods. As you explore the reserve, you’ll likely encounter other friendly hikers and their pets. The combination of scenic views and a relaxed environment makes this trail a great area to connect with nature and take pictures of your pup and the landscapes.
Highlights:
- 2.3 mi trail with 78 ft elevation gain
- Estimated time to complete: 44 minutes
- Trail is moderately challenging, so it’s not for beginners
- The reserve is full of greenery and wildlife
Exploring the trails of Massachusetts with your dog is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors together. Whether you want a relaxing stroll or a more challenging hike, you’re sure to find a trail that you and Fido love. Once you pick a location, grab some human and canine hiking gear and get ready to hit the trails!
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