10 Dog-Friendly Spring Road Trip Destinations for You and Your Pup 🚗🐾

Figure: Nothing beats a car ride with the windows down – a golden retriever enjoying the breeze on a road trip.

Spring is here, the open road is calling, and your dog is itching to stick their head out the window and feel the wind in their fur. For adventure-loving millennials and Gen Zers who treat their dogs like family, there’s no better time to plan a pawsome spring road trip. We’ve fetched 10 must-visit, dog-friendly destinations across the U.S. – from mountains to beaches, forests to national parks – that will have both you and your canine co-pilot wagging with excitement. So rev up your engines, pack the treats and gear, and get ready for a tail-wagging adventure!

Overview:

Blue Ridge Parkway & Asheville, NC (492 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Scenic mountain drives with breathtaking overlooks.

Outer Banks, NC (268 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Dog-friendly beaches where pups can run off-leash.

Acadia National Park, ME (475 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: 100+ miles of dog-friendly hiking trails.

Sedona, AZ (2010 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Iconic red rock hikes perfect for sunrise adventures.

Grand Canyon (South Rim), AZ (2000 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Leashed dogs allowed on the stunning Rim Trail.

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV (2353 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Crystal-clear lake with dog-friendly beaches and trails.

Big Sur, CA (2506 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Dramatic coastal views and dog-friendly scenic stops.

Redwood National & State Parks, CA (2517 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Walk among the world’s tallest trees with your pup.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO (1621 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Dogs can explore and play on the giant sand dunes.

Black Hills & Custer State Park, SD (1463 miles from Malvern, PA)

• • Highlight: Scenic drives and trails with wild bison sightings.

Before we hit the road, let’s talk prep. Make sure your ride is as comfy and safe for your pup as it is for you. Stock up on all natural pet food and plenty of water, and don’t forget those high-value snacks (think single source protein dog treats or small batch dog treats from your favorite local pet shop in Malvern, Pennsylvania, or wherever you call home). A happy, well-fed doggo makes for a smooth trip! And speaking of smooth trips, check out these road trip pet essentials to keep your furball safe and cozy on the journey:

Gear Up: Road Trip Essentials for Your Canine Co-Pilot 🚙🐶

• Dog Sleeping Bag – When camping under the stars, give your pup their own comfy sleeping spot. A warm, packable dog sleeping bag (like the Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag) keeps your buddy snug on chilly nights​.
  rei.com
  No more shivering or sneaking into your sleeping bag!
• Impact-Resistant Crate – Safety first. Secure your dog in a crash-tested travel crate to protect them (and you) on the road. A properly engineered crate absorbs front, rear, and rollover impacts to keep your pup safely contained​.
  4x4northamerica.com
  It’s peace of mind whenever you hit the brakes or take those winding turns.
• Portable Dog Tent – Give your dog a little home-away-from-home at the campsite. A lightweight “pup tent” pops up to provide shade from the sun or refuge if it rains​.
  cascadeclimbers.com
  It’s a cozy corner for Fido to chill while you roast marshmallows, and it sets up in minutes.
• Dog Bike Sidecar/Trailer – Planning to cruise some bike trails or beach boardwalks? Bring your pup along for the ride! A dog-friendly bike trailer (think Burley Tail Wagon or Thule’s pet trailers) lets your dog sit back and enjoy the views. Many are designed for easy loading/unloading and maximum comfort for your canine copilot.​
  burley.com
  Strap them in, and pedal away knowing your sidekick is safe and enjoying the adventure.

Alright, now that we’re geared up and the snack jar is full, let’s explore the top 10 spring road trip destinations that are dog-friendly and absolutely stunning. Each spot offers something special – whether it’s flower-filled trails, sandy paws on the beach, or breathtaking vistas you can share with your pup. Buckle up and let’s roll!

 

 

1. Blue Ridge Parkway & Asheville, NC – Mountains, Music, and Mutts 🏞️🎶🐕

Figure: A scenic stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway in spring, curving around the mountains in North Carolina.

If your dog could choose a playlist for this trip, it’d be full of country roads and mountain tunes. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a perfect road trip to take with your dog, offering 469 miles of winding mountain roads, scenic overlooks, hikes, and waterfalls to explore together​(musingsofarover.com). Springtime paints the Appalachian Mountains in hues of green and wildflower pink. Roll down those windows – you’ll both love the fresh alpine air as you cruise from one overlook to the next (your pup might even howl along to the radio 🎸).

Start around Asheville, NC, an ultra dog-friendly city famous for its art scene and craft breweries (many of which welcome dogs on their patios). Nearby, you can hop on hiking trails in Pisgah National Forest or along the Parkway itself. Don’t miss a pit stop at Craggy Gardens or Mount Mitchell – in spring these high-elevation balds burst with rhododendron blooms. Dogs are allowed on nearly all trails in the area as long as they’re leashed, so you can both stretch your legs on a short trek to a waterfall or a long hike with panoramic views.

What makes this trip truly paw-fect is the abundance of pet-friendly lodging and camping. Along the Parkway, you’ll find plenty of campgrounds and dog-friendly cabins or motels. Asheville even has pet-welcoming hotels (the Aloft Downtown famously has no pet fee​). After a day of cruising mountain roads, you and your pup can relax by a campfire or hit a pet-friendly café in town. Best spring months: Late April through June, when temperatures are mild, wildflowers are blooming, and the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. It’s a low-traffic, high-reward time to experience those Blue Ridge views with your best bud.

 

 

2. Outer Banks, NC – Beach Bumming with Your Best Bud 🏖️🌊🐕

Swap the mountains for miles of sandy beaches and rolling dunes! North Carolina’s Outer Banks (OBX) barrier islands are a doggy paradise in spring. Here, beach towns like Duck and Corolla pride themselves on being super dog-friendly. In fact, the Town of Duck allows dogs off-leash on the beach year-round (as long as they’re under voice control)​ (musingsofarover.com) – meaning your pup can run free on seven miles of warm sand and gentle surf. (Talk about living their best life – zoomies in the sand, anyone?)

Spring is ideal on the OBX: the weather is warm but not too hot, and the summer tourist throngs have yet to descend. You might have long stretches of beach almost to yourself on a weekday morning. Many OBX beaches permit dogs on-leash during the day in off-season, and come spring, even stricter towns start loosening time restrictions. Always check local leash laws by town (for example, in Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, leashed dogs are welcome anytime in spring, whereas some areas have daytime restrictions after May 15​ (outerbanks.org)). Generally, April and May are fantastic – low 70s temperatures and breezy.

Besides beach play, you can take scenic drives up and down the islands. Visit the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (dogs can’t climb, but can walk the grounds), or ferry over to Ocracoke Island for a quieter vibe. Many OBX restaurants with outdoor seating will happily host your pup (some even have dog menus!). And if your dog loves a good social scene, bring them to the Dog Bar in Duck or the brewery in Kill Devil Hills that has an off-leash dog play area.

When the sun sets, cozy up at a pet-friendly beach rental – the Outer Banks have tons of vacation homes that welcome dogs. Nothing beats falling asleep to the sound of ocean waves with your sandy-pawed, happily exhausted pup snoring at your feet. Best spring months: April and May, before it gets hot. (Pro tip: Wild horses roam parts of Corolla – keep your dog leashed and at a distance if you go horse-spotting!). The Outer Banks offer that perfect blend of sun, surf, and sniffing that every beach-loving dog (and human) craves.

 

 

3. Acadia National Park, ME – New England Trails for Tails 🌲🏕️🐾

Does your dog have a bit of the explorer spirit? Acadia National Park in Maine might just be your spring dream. It’s often hailed as America’s most dog-friendly national park – and for good reason. Dogs are allowed on 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads in Acadia​ (nps.gov), which means you and your pup can summit peaks, stroll around lakes, and even walk right up to ocean cliffs together. From the rugged shoreline of Ocean Path to the gentle woods around Jordan Pond, your leashed companion is welcome to join your adventure (just avoid the few ladder-style trails that are off-limits to pups).

Spring in Acadia (late May into June) is a bit of a hidden gem. The ice and mud of early spring give way to blooming wildflowers, and the summer rush hasn’t hit yet. You can hike up Cadillac Mountain for a sunrise – one of the first places to see the sunrise in the U.S. – with fewer people around, and yes, dogs are allowed on that trail too. Imagine watching the dawn light up Frenchman Bay with your dog by your side, both of you bundled up in the cool Maine morning. Talk about an Instagram-worthy moment (and a memory for a lifetime).

Acadia also has pet-friendly campgrounds (Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods all permit pets​). If camping isn’t your thing, the nearby town of Bar Harbor is extremely dog-friendly, with many hotels, B&Bs, and even patios at lobster shacks rolling out the red carpet for canine guests. After a day of hiking, treat your pup to a patio meal in Bar Harbor – maybe some local seafood for you and a piece of all-natural jerky for them (they earned it on those trails!). Best spring months: Late May and June. Early spring (April) can be chilly/muddy in Maine, but by Memorial Day, Acadia is in full bloom. Just remember to keep Fido on leash (max 6 feet) and pick up after them to keep this park pristine for everyone​. With ocean views and mountain trails, Acadia offers a bit of everything – and you won’t have to leave your best friend behind to enjoy it.

 

 

 

4. Sedona, AZ – Red Rock Adventures and Tail-Wagging Trails 🏜️🧡🐕

Red rock canyons and spiritual vortexes… Sedona has a magical vibe, and your dog will sense it too! This Arizona gem is incredibly dog-friendly, from its numerous pet-welcoming hiking trails to dog-friendly restaurant patios in town (sedonadogfriendlytours.com). In spring, Sedona’s weather is just about paw-fect – mild, sunny days (60s-70s °F) and cool nights. The wildflowers sprinkle the desert floor with color, and the towering red rock formations glow beautifully at golden hour.

Leash up your pup and hit the trails: favorites include Bell Rock Pathway, Cathedral Rock (base trail), Fay Canyon, and Soldier Pass. These trails welcome dogs on leash and offer stunning views of Sedona’s famous red cliffs and mesas. West Fork Trail is another popular hike that meanders along a creek – great for dogs who might want to splash a bit. As you trek, you’ll likely encounter other friendly dogs (Sedona is a paradise for hikers and dogs alike​). Just carry plenty of water; even spring can get warm by midday and the desert sun is strong. (Pro tip: Sedona’s red rock canyons mean lots of rocky terrain – consider booties if your dog’s paws are sensitive, and always check the ground temperature).

After hiking, Sedona’s town center offers pet-friendly patios galore. Many cafes and restaurants put out water bowls and welcome dogs. Creekside American Bistro, for example, not only has a fantastic view but also a dog menu – yup, your pup can chow down on a special dish while you enjoy your meal​ (reddit.com). How’s that for catering to the fur-kids? You can also stroll the artsy Tlaquepaque Village, an outdoor shopping area where leashed dogs are allowed in many galleries and shops.

Sedona’s vibe is laid-back and new-agey – don’t be surprised if someone offers your dog a “blessing” or you find yourself joining a sunset drum circle with your pup by your side. Embrace it! As the stars come out, you’ll appreciate Sedona’s dark skies. Maybe your pup will gaze up too, wondering at the Milky Way (or just sniffing the night-blooming cactus). Best spring months: March, April, and early May are ideal – warm days, cool nights, and nature in bloom. By late May, it starts heating up. Sedona in spring is basically one giant playground for you and your dog, set against a backdrop of jaw-dropping scenery that will make your Instagram followers jealous.

 

 

5. Grand Canyon (South Rim), AZ – Canyon Views with Your Canine 🏜️🌄🐕

No American road trip list would be complete without the Grand Canyon – and yes, you can experience it with your dog (at least from the top!). While pets aren’t allowed on trails below the rim, leashed dogs are allowed on all the South Rim trails above the canyon – including the spectacular Rim Trail​ (nps.gov). This means you and your pup can walk for miles along the canyon’s edge, soaking in those epic views together. Imagine standing at Mather Point at sunrise, your dog by your side, as the canyon walls light up in shades of orange and red – unforgettable.

The South Rim is the most developed, dog-accessible area of the park. The Rim Trail stretches over 13 miles (no need to do it all at once!) and much of it is paved. You’ll encounter other leashed dogs taking their owners for scenic walks, and plenty of friendly folks who might ask to pet your good boy/girl. (Be prepared for lots of “aww!” attention – dogs love the Grand Canyon, and people love seeing them there.) Keep a firm grip on the leash; there are overlooks without railings, and while most dogs have more sense than to go too close, you want to be extra safe around those sheer drops.

One cool feature: the park offers kennel services at the South Rim if you need to go somewhere dogs can’t (like into a building or on the shuttle). But for the most part in spring, you won’t need shuttles – you can drive to many viewpoints, and the weather is cool enough to take your dog everywhere you go on foot. Do be mindful of altitude (7,000 feet) – bring water and let your pup rest as needed.

Spring (April-May) is prime time here: the weather is generally mild (50s-70s °F in the day, cooler at night) and it’s before the big summer rush. Your dog will appreciate the cooler temps for walking the sunny rim. If you visit in April, you might even catch patches of late snow on the ground, which many dogs find fun to sniff and play in. By May, wildflowers and blooming shrubs add color to the desert landscape on the rim.

In the evenings, most accommodations in Tusayan (the town just outside the park) or around have dog-friendly options – from hotels that allow pets to campgrounds. After a day of staring into the mile-deep canyon, your pup will sleep soundly (and you’ll have that content feeling of having shared a truly awe-inspiring experience together). Just remember: no dogs below the rim (so skip any plans to hike Bright Angel Trail with Fido), and keep them leashed for safety​. With those rules in mind, the Grand Canyon can absolutely be a part of your dog-friendly road trip. It’s a big check off the bucket list – for both of you!

 

 

6. Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Alpine Lake Lounging and Trail Sniffing 🚤🌲🐕

Crystal-clear blue water, snow-capped peaks in the distance, and dozens of dog-friendly trails and beaches – welcome to Lake Tahoe, straddling California and Nevada in the Sierra Nevadas. Lake Tahoe is doggy heaven in spring and early summer​(visitlaketahoe.com). As the snow melts, the lake’s surroundings explode with greenery and wildflowers, and previously snowed-in trails become accessible again. It’s the perfect time to bring your pup for some alpine adventure without the crowds (or the winter chill).

One of the big perks: the area around Tahoe boasts 44 pet-friendly hotels (and countless cabins and Airbnbs)​, so finding dog-friendly digs is a breeze. Many places even provide dog beds or welcome goodies for your furry friend. Once you’re settled, hit the outdoors! There are dog-friendly hikes for every skill level:

• For an easy stroll, try the Tahoe Rim Trail segment near Tunnel Creek or the paved path to Echo Lake.
• For something more vigorous, leashed dogs can join you on the trek up Mt. Tallac (if you’re both fit – it’s a tough one with amazing views​) or the picturesque Five Lakes Trail in Granite Chief Wilderness.
• Don’t miss Van Sickle Bi-State Park right behind South Lake Tahoe – its trails offer great vistas without too steep a climb.
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If your pup loves water, Tahoe has dog-friendly beaches where they can dip their paws. Check out Kiva Beach on the south shore – a wide, open beach where dogs can romp and swim (with views of Mt. Tallac towering above)​. North Beach at Zephyr Cove is another spot dogs are allowed (just avoid the adjacent private resort beach). Keep in mind the lake is chilly year-round – but many dogs won’t mind one bit, especially after they work up a pant on a hike. Always supervise and use a long leash if needed, as there are no lifeguards.

When you’re ready to relax, Tahoe’s towns (South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, etc.) have plenty of dog-friendly restaurants and even breweries. Some have outdoor fire pits where pups can curl up next to you. And if you need an off-leash break, there’s the Bijou Dog Park in South Lake Tahoe – perfect for letting your dog socialize and zoom around safely​

Best spring months: Late May and June are fabulous. At higher elevations around Tahoe, spring starts a bit later – April can still feel like winter, and many trails are muddy or snowy. By May, the lower elevation trails and beaches are in prime condition, and by June most of the snow has melted off all but the highest peaks. It’s a sweet spot before summer tourism ramps up. With its combination of lakefront chillin’ and forest hike sniffin’, Lake Tahoe will have your dog giving you two paws up for this road trip stop.

 

 

 

7. Big Sur, CA – Coastal Cruisin’ and Doggy Beach Combing 🌊🦴🐕

For the pups (and people) who love the open road as much as the destination, Big Sur is a dream. This iconic stretch of California’s Highway 1 offers jaw-dropping coastal scenery – dramatic cliffs, the winding coastline, and the endless Pacific – and yes, some great dog-friendly stops along the way. It’s the kind of place where you’ll be driving with your dog’s head out the window and both of you just say “wooooow” (they in dog language, of course).

Now, Big Sur is a bit unique: much of the land is state park or private, so dogs aren’t allowed on most hiking trails in the state parks. But don’t fret – there are still excellent options for your furry friend:

• Coastal Beaches: Big Sur has a few lovely beaches where leashed dogs are welcome. Pfeiffer Beach is a must-see (famous for its purple sand and rock arch in the water) and dogs are allowed on leash there (View Here) It’s a short, sandy walk from the parking to the beach – your dog will love splashing in the surf here. Another is Garrapata Beach, a long stretch of sand accessible from Garrapata State Park gates 18 and 19 – dogs permitted on the beach (just not on the inland trails)​ (Big Sur and Garrapata State Park ) These beaches in spring are often near-empty on weekdays, so your pup might feel like they have their own private ocean to play in. 
• Vista Points and Short Walks: All along Hwy 1, there are pullouts and vista points. Take advantage! Let your dog out (on leash) to sniff the ocean breeze and pose for pictures at spots like Bixby Creek Bridge (iconic photo op)​ ( hellorubydoodle.com) or Hurricane Point. There’s also a nice easy river path at Big Sur River Inn where you can walk with your pup and even grab a meal at their outdoor deck afterwards (they’re dog-friendly).

Driving Big Sur is as much an activity as anything – the road twists and turns high above the ocean, and there are plenty of places to stop and admire the view or have a picnic. Your dog will enjoy the variety of smells – one minute salty ocean air, the next minute redwood forest dew. Speaking of redwoods, a few areas let you enjoy them with your dog: Fernwood Resort has a short loop trail along the river in the redwoods that’s dog-friendly for guests, and Limekiln State Park allows dogs in the campground and picnic areas (not on trails, but you can still see some big trees near parking).

Spring is a wonderful time here: the hills are green (from winter rains) and dotted with wildflowers, and the weather is cool to mild (50–65 °F). Morning fog is common, but often clears to sun by afternoon. The famous Calla Lily Valley at Garrapata blooms in early spring – you can walk with your leashed pup to see it (just keep them from munching the lilies, they’re toxic to dogs)​. Also, California gray whales migrate north in spring – sometimes you can spot them from shore; your dog might not know what you’re pointing at, but hey, you will be excited!

In terms of pet-friendly amenities, Big Sur is remote and somewhat rustic. There are a few lodges and motels that allow dogs (book ahead – limited supply), and a couple of campgrounds where dogs are permitted (on leash in camp). Dining-wise, Big Sur Roadhouse and Big Sur Bakery have outdoor seating where dogs can join, and as mentioned, Big Sur River Inn’s deck is dog-friendly.

Best spring months: March through May. April is my personal fave – green cliffs, wildflowers, and less fog than June. Always double-check what’s open, as Big Sur can have road closures or park closures after winter storms. But assuming the route is clear, get ready for a coastal adventure. Big Sur’s motto could well be “Dogs, Drives, and Dramatic scenery.” With the right planning, your pup can enjoy this world-famous coastline just as much as you will.

 

 

 

8. Redwood Coast, CA (Redwood National & State Parks) – Tall Trees and Wagging Tails 🌲🐕✨

Ever see your dog tilt their head upward in wonder? That’s bound to happen when you walk among the giant redwoods. Northern California’s Redwood National and State Parks (a network of parks co-managed together) protect the world’s tallest trees – and yes, you can definitely plan a road trip stop here with your dog. While dogs can’t go on most narrow dirt trails in the deep forest, they are allowed in many areas like paved roads, picnic spots, and some paths and beaches so you can still enjoy the awe of the redwoods together​ (savetheredwoods.org)

.First, the road trip itself: Highway 101 and the scenic Newton B. Drury Parkway (which winds through an old-growth redwood grove) are pet-friendly by default – it’s just you and your pup in the car, cruising through cathedral-like forests. There are turnouts where you can park and step out with your dog to admire the massive trees up close. One great pet-friendly walk is along Cal Barrel Road in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park – it’s an old dirt road through the redwoods where leashed pets are permitted​. It’s flat, quiet, and absolutely magical at dog-eye level (so many new “woodsy” smells!). Another easy stroll is on Walker Road in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, which parallels a beautiful river among big trees – also open to dogs on leash​

Now, onto beaches: The Redwood parks extend to the Pacific coast, and several beaches allow dogs (on leash). How does running on Gold Bluffs Beach sound? This long sandy beach has the forest on one side and ocean on the other. Dogs are allowed under the same conditions as humans – just keep them out of signed sensitive areas like dune habitat​. Other dog-friendly beaches in the region include Crescent Beach and Hidden Beach. There’s nothing quite like playing fetch with driftwood on a misty northern California beach, then looking up to see a herd of elk in the distance (yes, keep that leash tight if elk appear!).

Spring on the Redwood Coast can be cool and moist, but also incredibly peaceful. April and May bring wildflowers even to the forest floor (look for trilliums and redwood sorrel). Rain showers are common, so bring a towel to dry off your pup. The trade-off is worth it: seasonal creeks and waterfalls flow strong, and a mystical fog often drifts through the redwood trunks in the morning, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Your dog will probably enjoy the soft, cool climate – it’s perfect for not overheating on walks. (Just be prepared: you might get a wet dog smell in the car, but that’s the smell of adventure!)

Camping is a great option here. Many of the state park campgrounds allow dogs (on leash in camp). Imagine cozying up at night with the sound of the ocean or a babbling creek, your pup snoozing by the campfire at your feet. If camping’s not your thing, try lodging in nearby Trinidad or Klamath, where some inns and motels are pet-friendly.

The key in the redwoods is to take it slow and enjoy the serenity. Even though you can’t hike every trail with your dog (national park rules are stricter on dirt trails to protect wildlife), there’s still so much both of you can experience together: towering trees, wild elk grazing in meadows, the crash of ocean waves, and the quiet hush that only a redwood forest can have. Best spring months: April, May, and early June. You’ll avoid the heavier winter rains and the summer tourists. Plus, spring often means newborn wildlife sightings (keep curious pups from disturbing any critters). The Redwood Coast offers a sense of wonder, and seeing your pup sniff around these ancient giants with curiosity and happiness is truly heartwarming.

 

 

 

9. Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO – Surfing the Sands with Your Sidekick 🏖️🐫🐶

Time to trade forests for sand dunes – Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado is an otherworldly landscape of towering dunes backdropped by snowy mountains. And guess what: it’s one of the few national parks where dogs are allowed on the dunes! That means you and your pup can literally hike up sand mountains together and even sled down (yes, sandboarding is a thing). Talk about a unique road trip memory.

Dogs are welcome on the main dunes area as long as they’re leashed​ (bringfido.com)

. Picture your dog’s face the first time they step paw on the sand – pure puzzlement and then pure joy. It’s like the biggest sandbox ever. You can trek as far as you want out onto the dunefield. Maybe aim for the famous High Dune (about 700 feet tall) for a panoramic view. Be prepared for a workout – hiking on sand is tough but fun, and your pup will get excellent exercise zig-zagging around, sniffing unknown scents (kangaroo rat, maybe?) in the sand. Spring is ideal because the sand isn’t too hot; in summer it can reach 150°F which is dangerous for paws, but in spring the temperatures are paw-friendly especially in mornings and evenings​

One springtime highlight at Great Sand Dunes is Medano Creek. In late May to early June, this seasonal snowmelt-fed creek flows at the base of the dunes, creating a natural beach. It’s shallow and dogs love splashing in it. You can essentially have a beach day in the middle of Colorado! Your dog can romp in the creek shallows and play “dune-and-seek” with you (just don’t let them drink too much of the sandy water). It’s hilarious and adorable to watch pups encounter the small waves that form in this creek (locals call them “surge flow”). Bring a towel – your pup will get wet and sandy, the best combo.

Beyond the dunes, there are some dog-friendly trails in the adjacent national preserve and forest, like Mosca Pass Trail just outside the main dunes area where leashes are allowed​ (nps.gov) (thetravelinghuskymutts.com). But honestly, most people (and dogs) will be plenty happy just playing on the sand and creek all day. The park also has a campground where dogs are allowed, or you can find pet-friendly motels in nearby Alamosa. At night, the skies here are brilliantly dark – step outside and do some stargazing; your dog won’t care about the Milky Way, but they’ll enjoy the late-night sniffs while you marvel upward.

Best spring months: May and early June. Early spring (March-April) can be windy and a bit cool (and the dunes can even have snow on them in March). By May, days are warm (70s°F) and nights are cool. This timing also aligns with Medano Creek’s peak flow, turning the area into a giant dog-friendly waterpark. Just be mindful of the sun – there’s no shade on the dunes, so bring doggy sunscreen for light-colored noses/ears, and plenty of water for both of you. Perhaps pack some booties in case the sand warms up in midday, and always watch for signs of your pup tiring; running on sand is hard work!

Great Sand Dunes is like no other place – your dog can sprint down sand hills, splash in a creek, and roll to their heart’s content, all with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains looming majestically nearby. When you both collapse in the car after a day of sand adventures, you’ll smile at the sand in your shoes (and in your dog’s fur) and know it was totally worth it.

 

 

 

10. Black Hills, SD (Custer State Park) – Wild West Woofs and Scenic Loops 🦬🌄🐕

Cowboys and gold miners may have put the Black Hills on the map, but your dog will put it in their heart. Western South Dakota’s Black Hills region offers a mix of rolling plains, granite peaks, and rich pine forests – a playground for adventurous pups. The star of the show for dog owners is Custer State Park, 71,000 acres of wild beauty that is refreshingly dog-friendly throughout​ (mydoglikes.com) (a welcome change if you’ve been hitting national parks with restrictions).

In Custer State Park, leashed dogs are allowed on all trails​, which means you can tackle anything from an easy lakeside stroll to a challenging mountain hike with your buddy. A couple of highlights:

• Sylvan Lake Shore Trail – a gentle loop around a picturesque lake framed by rock spires. It’s an easy walk and great for a warm afternoon; dogs can wade in near the shore to cool off. (Sylvan Lake is so pretty it looks like a movie set – in fact, it was in National Treasure 2).
• Sunday Gulch Trail – starts at Sylvan Lake and goes down into a gulch with streams and boulders. It’s a bit steep in places (there are handrails – your dog might improvise their own way up some rocks), but it’s a fun adventure if you have an agile pup.
• Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak) – the highest point in the Black Hills. This hike is a moderate 7-mile round trip through forest to a stone fire lookout tower at the top with 360° views. Dogs are allowed (on leash) and many make this trek. Just bring water; there are some granite sections that can heat up on sunny days.

Besides hiking, wildlife viewing is a big draw here – and you can do it from the car along the Wildlife Loop Road. Bison, pronghorn antelope, deer, wild burros – they all roam Custer State Park. Your dog will be safely inside the car, but oh boy, they will go nuts with excitement at the sights and smells of a hundred bison grazing in a valley. Remember not to let your pup bark or lunge at wildlife through the window – we don’t want to spook a 2,000-pound bison! The wild burros are actually quite tame (descendants of old mining pack animals) and often come up to cars. Keep windows up enough that a curious donkey can’t snatch your dog’s head in a playful nip 😂. It’s like a safari, and your dog is riding shotgun.

Spring in the Black Hills is gorgeous – late April through June brings green grass and baby animals galore. (Yes, baby bison, called “red dogs,” are born in spring – adorable rust-colored calves bouncing around the herds.) The weather ranges from cool to pleasantly warm. May and June are especially lovely, with daytime highs in the 60s/70s °F and cooler nights. It can thunderstorm in spring afternoons, but that’s part of the prairie charm – just have a safe place for your pup if they’re scared of thunder.

While in the area, you can also visit Mount Rushmore (dogs aren’t allowed on the memorial walkway, but you can see it from some pet-friendly vantage points outside) or the Badlands (about 1.5 hours away – Badlands National Park only allows dogs on roads and overlooks, not trails). But honestly, Custer State Park has enough to fill days. Don’t forget to drive the Needles Highway (high clearance vehicles preferred) – its winding turns and tunnels through rock spires are stunning, and you can stop at Needles Eye lookout with your leashed dog for an epic photo.

At day’s end, relax in the town of Custer or Hill City, where several hotels and cabins welcome dogs (some even have fenced dog runs). Or camp under the Ponderosa pines at Custer’s campgrounds (Stockade North and South are pet-friendly, for example). As the sun sets over the hills and the stars pop out, you might hear distant coyote howls – your dog’s ears will perk up, and you’ll get goosebumps realizing you’re truly in the Wild West, together with your trusty four-legged “deputy.”

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Ready, Set, Go – Time to Hit the Road! 🚀🐕

These 10 destinations are just the tip of the iceberg (or should we say the tip of the dog bone?) when it comes to dog-friendly road tripping. From coast to coast, America is full of sights and smells that are better experienced with your pup by your side. As you plan your spring escape, remember that the journey is part of the fun: blast your favorite tunes, take the scenic route, and make plenty of pit stops for potty, play, and photo ops with your canine co-pilot.

One more pro-tip: Before you embark on your adventure, stock up on treats and travel goodies for your pup. High-value snacks can be a lifesaver for keeping your dog happy on long drives or rewarding them after a good hike. Consider picking up some single source protein dog treats or local small batch dog treats (if you’re near Malvern Pennsylvania, you know there are great options!). In fact, why not treat your pup to the best of the best – freeze-dried, all-natural goodies that will fuel their wagging tail on the road?

So, pack your bags, check your gear, leash up that excited pup, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip. Whether you’re chasing sunsets over the ocean, hiking to mountain tops, or rolling in desert dunes, your dog is going to love being included in the adventure every step of the way. These spring destinations offer plenty of variety to keep both humans and canines entertained, exercised, and exhilarated.

Now let’s hit the road – new smells, sights, and smiles await! And when you’re loading up the car, don’t forget to pick up your pup’s favorite freeze-dried dog treats from SniffandShift.com before hitting the road. 🐕🍖 Your furry friend will thank you with kisses and happy zoomies at every rest stop, guaranteed.

Time to sniff out new horizons – see you and your pup out there on the highway!