One of the joys of having a dog in the family is sharing the simple pleasures – a spoonful of peanut butter, a squirrel darting across the yard, an enthusiastic tummy rub.
When it comes to traveling to a place known for outdoor fun like North Conway, nestled in the heart of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley, it’s easy to envision the excitement a dog would feel, romping up and down hillsides, snooting through piles of pine needles, and splashing in icy streams. With so much adventure awaiting, it’s only natural to want to bring Rover along. North Conway, with its welcoming attitude towards dogs, offers a perfect getaway where both humans and their furry friends can enjoy all the area has to offer.
Of course, the forests and mountains around North Conway are the biggest attraction for the dogs. The White Mountain National Forest, with its vast expanse of over 750,000 acres, offers an abundance of trails perfect for hiking with your furry companion. One of the most popular spots is the Kancamagus Highway, a scenic byway that provides access to numerous dog-friendly trails.
Outdoors can range from scaling Mount Washington (a challenge for the most fit and experienced hikers) to a casual stroll through Schuler Park in Downtown North Conway. Between those two extremes lies a wealth of opportunities to smell fresh air, hear the wind in the trees, and feel the leaves crunch under your feet.
Champney Falls Trail is a favorite, winding through the forest to a beautiful waterfall where dogs can cool off in the refreshing waters.
Black Cap Trail offers a moderately difficult climb with rewarding panoramic views at the summit, perfect for a picnic with Rover. Great Glen Trails at the base of Mount Washington offer miles of scenic paths that are perfect for dogs.
Echo Lake State Park’s Bryce Path, the steeper Cathedral Ledge Trail, and the pleasantly surprising Pudding Pond Trail loop with its beaver dams all offer plenty of wilderness for a morning adventure.
With these options and more, North Conway’s outdoor activities ensure that both you and your dog will have plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of this charming region.
After hiking and exploring the scenic trails, it’s time to slow down and enjoy some of the less-outdoorsy activities North Conway has to offer. Window shopping in the charming downtown area is a delightful experience, especially for dogs who enjoy meeting new people and sniffing out new scents.
North Conway’s downtown is lined with quaint shops and boutiques, many of which are pet-friendly.
Famous Zeb’s General Store is a must-visit, with or without dogs.. Dogs are welcome to accompany their humans inside, where they can enjoy the hustle and bustle of this old-fashioned emporium filled with unique treats and gifts, just be aware that it can get crowded on weekends, so some dogs might get spooked.
For more extensive shopping, the Settler’s Green Outlet Village is a fantastic destination. Many of the stores here display pet-friendly stickers on their doors, welcoming dogs to join in the retail fun.
A leisurely two-mile hike from downtown brings you to Four Your Paws Only, a pet store and bakery that offers an array of dog-friendly treats, outdoor gear like backpacks and collapsible water bowls, and practically indestructible Lupine collars and leashes.
While exploring these shops, you can pick out dog-themed clothing and accessories for yourself, ensuring both you and Rover can return to exploring in style.
Then, after a day full of adventures, dining with your dog is the perfect way to unwind.
North Conway boasts a variety of pet-friendly restaurants where you can savor delicious food while keeping your furry friend by your side. It’s always wise to check in advance to confirm their pet policies, as these can change, and be prepared to dine outdoors. One of our personal favorites, the Sea Dog Tavern, is known for its creative pub fare and seafood. We’ve always found the food and service to be exceptional. The tavern is part of a chain with locations in Maine and Florida, all featuring craft beers brewed on-site. The 8-beer sampler is a highlight for those who can’t decide on just one brew. It’s an excellent spot for a hearty meal after a day of exploring.
We’ve also experienced the Black Cap Grille, offering a diverse menu featuring local ingredients and also has a pet-friendly patio.
The Flatbread Company, known for its organic pizzas and cozy atmosphere, the Local Grocer, offering health-conscious meals and a relaxed vibe, Peach’s Restaurant for breakfast or lunch with your furry friend, and Boston Brothers Pizzeria among the other restaurants that welcome Fido to come accompany you or dinner.
When planning a trip to North Conway with your canine companions, you have a variety of pet-friendly accommodation options, ranging from cozy cottages to luxurious resorts. The region offers numerous places where you and your dog can feel at home, ensuring both comfort and convenience during your stay.
One time we stayed at Tanglewood Cottages in Conway, a delightful experience for both us and our dog. The cottages provide private spaces with easy access to the Kancamagus Highway, making it perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
The Spruce Moose Lodge is a fantastic option for pet owners. This charming bed and breakfast is known for its welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodations. It is a short walk from downtown,
allowing easy access to local shops and restaurants. In our visit there, we were without dogs, but the hosts had their own dogs who helped keep us company during our stay.
For those who prefer the reliability of a chain hotel, the Residence Inn by Marriott offers pet-friendly rooms. Starlight Lodge is another excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
North Conway also offers a wide range of pet-friendly Airbnb rentals. These include spacious homes and cozy cabins, each with its own unique charm.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider Adventure Suites. This pet-friendly hotel features themed rooms that add a touch of adventure to your stay.
Fox Ridge Resort ,Home2 Suites by Hilton, the Hampton Inn & Suites, and the White Mountain Hotel & Resort, and more are worth checking out when you plan your visit.
Of course you can go camping. The Saco River Camping Area and the Crawford Notch Campground both provide pet-friendly environments with ample space for your dog to roam.
When planning your stay, it’s advisable to check the latest pet policies and availability directly with the accommodation providers, as policies can change and anticipate a pet fee at most properties that permit dogs.
We’ve found that traveling with our dogs in North Conway to be a rewarding experience, made easier by the many accommodation options designed to welcome furry guests.
While exploring the scenic beauty of North Conway with your furry friend can be an enriching experience, it’s essential to keep some practical considerations in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both you and your pet.
When venturing outdoors, always keep your dog leashed and under control. Many hiking trails and outdoor areas in North Conway require dogs to be leashed to prevent disturbances to wildlife and other visitors. Additionally, maintaining control over your dog ensures their safety and prevents them from wandering off-trail or getting into potentially dangerous situations.
Avoid leaving your dog unattended, especially in unfamiliar environments. Dogs can easily become disoriented or anxious when left alone in new surroundings, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries. Keep a watchful eye on your pet at all times, and never leave them tethered or confined in a vehicle without proper ventilation.
North Conway is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including moose, bears, and various bird species. Ensure that your dog does not harass wildlife, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and pose risks to both animals and humans. Additionally, be mindful of sensitive ecosystems and adhere to designated trails to minimize environmental impact.
In the event that your dog becomes separated from you during your travels, it’s crucial to have proper identification. Ensure that your dog wears a collar with up-to-date identification tags, including your contact information. Additionally, consider microchipping your pet for added security, as microchips provide a permanent form of identification that can help reunite lost pets with their owners.
And before embarking on your trip, familiarize yourself with the locations of local veterinary clinics and emergency services in the North Conway area. Knowing where to seek medical assistance in the event of an injury or illness can provide peace of mind and ensure prompt care for your pet if needed.
When packing for your trip, remember to bring essential supplies for your dog, including food, water, bedding, and any necessary medications. Additionally, consider packing a first-aid kit specifically tailored to your pet’s needs, including items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for removing ticks or splinters. I always pack a small bottle of dishwashing soap in case the dogs meet a skunk.
When venturing outdoors with your furry friend in North Conway, it’s crucial to consider the weather conditions. Summers can be warm, so ensure your dog stays hydrated and protected from hot pavement. In colder months, safeguard them from extreme cold with a doggy jacket or booties for added warmth and protection.
Practice good pet etiquette during your visit to North Conway by cleaning up after your dog and disposing of waste responsibly. Just because you’re in the woods, doesn’t make stepping in poop less disgusting. Respect the natural beauty of the area and the experience of other visitors by being considerate and mindful of shared spaces, fostering a welcoming environment for all.
With preparation, you can ensure a safe and memorable adventure with your dog in North Conway, where you can both appreciate the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that this charming destination has to offer.
With its stunning landscapes, pet-friendly amenities, and boundless opportunities for outdoor exploration, North Conway beckons both two-legged and four-legged adventurers alike. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, strolling through charming villages, or dining al fresco with your beloved pet by your side, North Conway offers unforgettable experiences for every member of the family.
So leash up your furry friend, pack your bags, and embark on a journey filled with wagging tails and joyful memories. Discover the wonders of North Conway together and create paw-some moments that will last a lifetime. Your next adventure awaits in North Conway – unleash the fun today!
For more information
• Spruce Moose Lodge — sprucemooselodge.com
• Cranmore Mountain — www.cranmore.com
• Settler’s Green Outlet Mall — www.settlersgreen.com
• Four Your Paws Only — www.fouryourpawsonly.com
• Sea Dog Tavern — www.seadogbrewing.com
Paul not only writes many of the articles in the pages of this magazine, he is also the publisher and editor of all of the magazines in the Amygis Publishing’s family of travel magazines. He loves exploring, traveling the back roads, experiencing the world, and finding what is unique and memorable about the places he visits.
And he loves writing – poetry, short stories, essays, non-fiction, news, and. of course, travel writing.
For over 20 years, he has shared his explorations with readers in a wide variety of outlets, from groundbreaking forays into the first stirrings of the dot-com boom to travel guides, local newspapers, and television, including Runner’s World, Travel Lady, Providence Journal, and Northstar Travel Media. He currently publishes and writes for Amygis Publishing’s magazines Jaunting, Northeast Traveler, and Rhode Island Roads.
