The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is a perfect destination for those who love nature and adventure. And if you are traveling with a furry friend, then the Smokies offer an array of activities for you and your dog to enjoy together. Here are the 10 best activities to do with dogs in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and where to go for each one.
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Hiking: The Smoky Mountains are known for their scenic trails, and what better way to explore them than with your four-legged friend? Some popular dog-friendly trails include the Gatlinburg Trail, the Oconaluftee River Trail, and the Andrews Bald Trail.
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Waterfall Hopping: The Smoky Mountains are home to many beautiful waterfalls, and most of them are accessible via hiking trails. Some dog-friendly waterfalls include Abrams Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Grotto Falls.
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Biking: If you and your furry companion are biking enthusiasts, then you can head to the Cades Cove Loop Road. This 11-mile road is closed to traffic on select days, making it perfect for biking with your dog.
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Swimming: If your dog loves to swim, then the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many dog-friendly swimming holes. Some popular ones include the Deep Creek area, Greenbrier area, and Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area.
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Picnicking: Picnicking is a great way to spend time with your dog while enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are many picnic areas in the park, including the Chimneys Picnic Area, Cades Cove Picnic Area, and Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area.
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Wildlife Watching: The Smoky Mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, elk, and many more. You can take your dog on a wildlife watching adventure in places like Cades Cove, Cataloochee Valley, and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
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Horseback Riding: If you and your dog are up for a unique adventure, then consider horseback riding. There are many stables in the Smoky Mountains that offer guided horseback riding tours, including Smoky Mountain Riding Stables and Sugarlands Riding Stables.
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Scenic Drives: If you want to take a break from hiking and other outdoor activities, then consider a scenic drive. The Foothills Parkway, Newfound Gap Road, and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail are all dog-friendly scenic drives.
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Photography: The Smoky Mountains offer some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, and photography enthusiasts will not be disappointed. Take your furry friend on a photography adventure to capture the beauty of the park.
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Dog-Friendly Attractions: There are also many dog-friendly attractions in the Smoky Mountains, including the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, and the Dollywood theme park.
The Smoky Mountains offer a wealth of activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy together. With so much to see and do, you and your dog will never be bored. Just be sure to follow the park's rules and regulations regarding pets, including keeping your dog on a leash at all times and cleaning up after them. Have a great trip!