The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Blue Ridge Regional Park
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Hiking in Blue Ridge Regional Park offers dog friendly hiking trails through wooded mountain slopes and rocky outcrops on the eastern side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The terrain is characterized by forested hills and formations, providing a quintessential Blue Ridge hiking experience. Trails include sections of the Appalachian Trail, featuring both gentle ascents and sustained climbs.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Blue Ridge Regional Park
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Appalachian Trail: Bears Den to Buzzard Hill, a 8.9 miles (14.3 km) trail that takes 4 hours 55 minutes to complete, leading through dense woodland with significant elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Appalachian Trail to Buzzard Hill, a moderate 6.3 miles (10.2 km) path that winds through forested areas with notable ascents.
- Local hikers also love the Buzzard Hill via Appalachian Trail, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail leading through wooded slopes, often completed in about 52 minutes.
- Hiking in Blue Ridge Regional Park is defined by wooded mountain slopes, rocky outcrops, and sections of the Appalachian Trail. The network offers options for both easy walks and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Blue Ridge Regional Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 25 reviews. More than 470 hikers have used komoot to explore Blue Ridge Regional Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
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14.3km
04:55
760m
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Hike the Appalachian Trail from Bears Den to Buzzard Hill, a moderate 8.9-mile route with rewarding views and challenging ups and downs.
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10.2km
03:17
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The Appalachian Trail to Buzzard Hill offers a classic AT experience with a moderate challenge, covering 6.3 miles (10.2 km) and gaining 1425 feet (434 metres) in about 3 hours and 17 minutes. You'll hike through pleasant wooded scenery, encountering dirt and rocky paths, an easy creek crossing, and a small waterfall. The route includes a segment of the famous "Roller Coaster" section, characterized by constant elevation changes, leading to the Buzzard Hill viewpoint with its west-facing vistas.
To reach the trailhead, be aware that the final 1.5 miles of Morgans Mill Road are bumpy, narrow, and gravelly. This trail is a great option if you're looking for a less crowded alternative to some of the more popular hikes in the region, offering a peaceful escape into nature. For the clearest views from Buzzard Hill, plan your hike during the fall or winter when the trees are bare.
This hike provides an accessible way to experience a piece of the legendary Appalachian Trail, complete with a primitive campsite near the summit of Buzzard Hill. It's a notable section for its continuous elevation changes and the chance to spot pawpaw trees along the way. Its proximity to Washington D.C. makes it a popular destination for day hikers seeking a substantial, yet manageable, outdoor adventure.
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2.86km
00:53
120m
70m
The Buzzard Hill via Appalachian Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through wooded terrain, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll follow dirt and rock paths, hear the gentle sounds of a brook, and can even detour to a small waterfall after a good rain. The main reward is the Buzzard Hill viewpoint, which provides lovely west-facing overlooks of the surrounding hills, especially clear in the cooler months.
This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route involves about 400 feet (122 metres) of elevation gain and takes roughly 52 minutes to complete, making it a great choice for a short outing. While no specific parking details are provided, plan to arrive at the trailhead ready to start your adventure. The best time to visit for unobstructed views is during the fall and winter.
This trail is a fantastic way to experience a segment of the famed Appalachian Trail, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of long-distance hikers. It's known for its varied terrain, from wooden steps to granite boulders, and offers a glimpse of the region's natural beauty. For those seeking a longer challenge, the trail can be extended towards Bears Den, which is part of the more strenuous "Roller Coaster" section of the AT.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
There is a small waterfall here off the side of the trail. There is no sign marking where to turn, but you can literally hear and see the water from the side of the trail if the current is strong enough. The best time to see the falls in full force is right after a big rain.
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The section of the Appalachian Trail leading to the Sam Moore Shelter is super well-marked with signs and blazes. The shelter, itself, is a standard primitive shelter that resembles many of the others you'll find along the trail in Virginia and is down a short spur trail. It comes with a fire ring and a separate picnic area (don't eat inside the shelter!).
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Buzzard Hill is one of many lower summits you can hit while hiking this section of the Appalachian Trail. The summit only reaches up to 1,301 feet, but it's higher than many of the surrounding foothills, so you get a pretty good view down into the valley from the lookout area. No matter which direction you come from, be prepared for a hilly hike both during your approach and your return.
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Bears Den Overlook is a really popular lookout spot along the Appalachian Trail. The viewpoint peers over the Shenandoah River Valley from some rocky outcrops. There is a nearby hostel and parking lot at Bears Den Park that you can loop around during your hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
There are 4 dog-friendly hiking routes available in Blue Ridge Regional Park, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes. These routes offer a variety of experiences through the park's wooded mountain slopes and rocky outcrops.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
The trails in Blue Ridge Regional Park feature wooded mountain slopes and rocky outcrops, characteristic of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll find a mix of gentle ascents and sustained climbs, with some sections following the Appalachian Trail. Expect natural surfaces, so appropriate footwear for both you and your dog is recommended.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails suitable for beginners or shorter walks?
Yes, there are a couple of easy dog-friendly options. The Buzzard Hill via Appalachian Trail is a shorter, easy route. Another accessible option is the Toy Hill – Buzzard Hill viewpoint loop from Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center, which is also rated easy and offers a pleasant walk.
What are some longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes in the park?
For a more challenging experience with your dog, consider the Appalachian Trail: Bears Den to Buzzard Hill. This moderate route covers over 14 kilometers with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding workout. Another moderate option is the Appalachian Trail to Buzzard Hill, which is over 10 kilometers long.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the dog-friendly trails?
Many trails in the park lead to scenic viewpoints. The area is known for overlooks like Raven Rocks and Bears Den, which offer expansive views over the Shenandoah River Valley. While specific routes vary, the park's terrain provides numerous opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
What are the rules for dogs on trails in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
While the park is generally dog-friendly, it's crucial to remember that all dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help maintain the park's natural environment for everyone.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for hiking with dogs in Blue Ridge Regional Park. The temperatures are milder, and the foliage offers beautiful colors. Summer can be hot and humid, so if hiking then, plan for early mornings or late afternoons and carry plenty of water for both yourself and your dog. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions.
Is public access to Blue Ridge Regional Park restricted?
Yes, it's important to note that Blue Ridge Regional Park primarily serves organized youth groups by reservation. Access for the general public for independent hiking typically requires prior permission. It's advisable to check with the park administration before planning your visit to ensure access.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
The trails in Blue Ridge Regional Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 25 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful wooded environment, the well-maintained sections of the Appalachian Trail, and the rewarding views from various overlooks.
Are there any loop trails suitable for dogs in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
Yes, the Toy Hill – Buzzard Hill viewpoint loop from Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center is an easy loop trail that is dog-friendly. Loop trails are great for dogs as they offer varied scenery without retracing your steps.
What should I bring when hiking with my dog in Blue Ridge Regional Park?
Always bring plenty of water for both yourself and your dog, especially on longer or more strenuous routes. Other essentials include a leash, waste bags, a first-aid kit for pets, and appropriate footwear for the varied terrain. Consider bringing snacks for your dog, too.
Most popular routes in Blue Ridge Regional Park
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