Sometimes we want to take the whole family on vacation… including our pet! Human travelers aren’t the only ones who love exploring lush forests, well-worn trails, and waterways brimming with life – canine visitors of all shapes and sizes love it, too! McDowell County, with its epic outdoor adventures, welcoming open-air patios, and comfy accommodations, is the perfect destination for pet-friendly adventures in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
When you visit McDowell County, remember to practice good “pet-iquette” by picking up after your pet and following all local regulations. Dogs are required to be on a leash (typically 6 feet or shorter) in all of the area towns and the recreation areas of Pisgah National Forest, Lake James State Park, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Outdoor PupTastic Adventures
Dogs make some of the most excellent hiking partners, and there are so many trail options in Western North Carolina. So, whether you have a couple of hours or the entire day to play outside, it’s easy to find the perfect hike:
- Setrock Creek Falls in the Pisgah National Forest near Burnsville offers ample parking and an easy 1.1-mile out-and-back hike that kids and pups of all ages will enjoy. With plenty of resting spots along Setrock Creek, the hike to the waterfall couldn’t be more pleasant.
- The Catawba Falls River Trail in Old Fort is an excellent choice for a moderately challenging journey on one of the best hikes in McDowell County. This 2.1-mile out-and-back hike delivers you to Catawba Falls, where you can delight in the forest splendor and cool off in the natural mist.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the challenging hike to Crabtree Falls, the tallest waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Little Switzerland. The wooded trail will provide ample shade, which will be appreciated during the steep 2.6-mile loop.
- If you’re town-bound, you can still get a great hike in with your pet on a stroll along the Joseph McDowell Historical Catawba Greenway in Marion. This paved path follows the flow of the Catawba River with fishing piers scattered along the way for a chance to stop, take in the view, and possibly give a belly rub.
Check out even more fan favorite area hikes here.
Pet-friendly Patios for Dining, Drinks, and Treats
Most restaurants, cafes, and breweries that offer outdoor and patio seating are happy to welcome your well-behaved dog. McDowell County knows dog lovers get hungry and thirsty after frolicking in the nearby woods.
- While in Old Fort, stop by Hillman Beer’s creekside deck with the pup for a local brew, some good food, and a casual community atmosphere. Place your order at the drive-through window of GoGo’s Handcrafted Cinnamon Buns for a tasty treat (that you may have to fight your dog for). For some of the best pizza in town and a pup-friendly patio space, 27 Main gives Old Fort vibes and a menu to satisfy.
- While in and around Lake James, find respite at the Fonta Flora Brewery at Whippoorwill Farm in Nebo, with its backdrop of the Linville Gorge. Dogs on leashes are allowed on and inside the property to enjoy the beer, restaurant, and scenery. Mica Town’s Nebo location is another delightful option after a day on the lake. You’ll find a dog-friendly taproom patio and housemade beer, cider, spirits, and locally-inspired cocktails, rotating food trucks, and weekly live music.
- Marion offers pet-friendly options for all meals of the day, starting with Ingenious Coffee Roasters, where you can get cleverly-crafted coffee to rev the engine. Enjoy a different kind of beverage while spending time in Marion at Keeper’s Cut Meadery, where their dog-friendly deck invites you to sit and sip. In the mood for chicken wings and housemade Southern sides? Then you are absolutely in luck at the Marion Wing Factory, where the pups are welcome at the outdoor seating areas. Enjoy an outdoor table at Crabby Abby’s Bar & Grill. There’s fresh seafood, hand-cut premium steaks, and a full-service bar. Copper Creek Distillery has been crafting new moonshine experiences in small batches for the public since 2021 and welcomes your dogs.
Pet-Friendly Accomodations
After a big day of adventure, rest up and recharge at one of many comfortable, pet-friendly accommodations. Many national brand hotels will welcome pets for an additional fee. Most local campgrounds and RV parks allow pets. And you can also find pet-friendly vacation cabins with lots of space to run!
McDowell County offers some unique stay opportunities for you and your animal companions:
- Find an amenity-filled campground in Spruce Pine, at Spacious Skies - Bear Den Campground and Cabins, where the mix of pet-friendly overnight options just begs you to bring the pups along for the mountain adventure.
- Little Switzerland is one of those magical types of places to spend quality time, and the Switzerland Inn has pet-friendly accommodations so you don’t miss out on the magic of this amenity-filled experience in the Swiss Alps of North Carolina.
- Hinterlander, near Marion, might just be the dream-come-true place to stay for the doggos in the family because they will have their very own canine host. After a stay (and play!) here, your pup may be completely spoiled for all other vacations.
Also, if you plan some human-only activities during your stay, that’s A-OK. You can let your furry friend stay at Sugarbear’s Sweet Retreat Dog Boarding and Kennel in Marion. Your pup will have a great day of canine companionship and care while you enjoy some leash-free time.
Check out all of our lodging options here to begin planning your vacation to McDowell County.
