A Dog-Friendly Guide to Shenandoah & Luray
Shenandoah is one of the better national parks to explore with a dog. Unlike many national parks, dogs are allowed on most of Shenandoah's 500+ miles of trails, so bringing your pup doesn't mean spending the whole trip in the car.
Around Luray, you'll also find easy walks, dog-friendly patios, and several wineries where your dog can come along.
There are a few important exceptions, though—including some of Shenandoah's most popular hikes. Here's where we'd go, what we'd skip, and a few of our favorite ways to explore the area with a dog.
Our Favorite Dog-Friendly Hikes in Shenandoah
Hawksbill Summit
Best for: Big views without an all-day hike
If you only do one hike with your dog, Hawksbill is a great choice.
At 4,050 feet, Hawksbill is the highest point in Shenandoah National Park, with expansive views across the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley.
There are several ways to reach the summit. The Upper Hawksbill route is the more gradual option, while the Lower Hawksbill route is shorter but steeper. Either way, dogs are allowed as long as they're kept on a physical leash no longer than six feet.
This is one of our favorite alternatives to Stony Man when you're traveling with a dog, since dogs aren't allowed on the Stony Man summit trail.
Mary's Rock
Best for: A more substantial hike close to Luray
Mary's Rock is a great option if you and your dog want a longer hike with a worthwhile view at the end.
The summit looks out over the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountains, and its location near Thornton Gap makes it especially convenient if you're staying around Luray.
There are multiple routes to the summit, so check the current trail map and choose one that fits your—and your dog's—ability.
Lewis Falls
Best for: A dog-friendly waterfall hike
If you'd rather hike to a waterfall, try Lewis Falls near Big Meadows.
The 3.3-mile circuit leads to a viewpoint overlooking an 81-foot waterfall. It's a moderate hike with roughly 990 feet of elevation gain, including a steep, rocky descent on the way to the falls. Dogs are permitted on leash.
Keep in mind that waterfall hikes mean climbing back uphill afterward, and wet rocks can be extremely slippery.
Popular Shenandoah Hikes You Can't Do With a Dog
This is worth knowing before you build your itinerary because several of Shenandoah's most recommended hikes do not allow pets.
Dogs aren't permitted on:
Stony Man Trail
Dark Hollow Falls Trail
Limberlost Trail
Bearfence Mountain Trail
Frazier Discovery Trail
Story of the Forest Trail
Several trails in the Old Rag area, including the Ridge, Saddle and Ridge Access trails
Fox Hollow Trail
Altogether, these restrictions account for fewer than 20 miles of Shenandoah's 500+ miles of trails, so you still have plenty of options.
Walk the Hawksbill Greenway in Luray
For an easy day outside the national park, take your dog to the Hawksbill Greenway.
The paved trail runs for about two miles along Hawksbill Creek through Luray, with benches, picnic areas, and several places to join the trail. Dogs are welcome on leash, and you'll even find Mutt Mitt stations along the way.
Cliffside Pocket Park has shaded picnic areas and a pet-friendly drinking fountain, which is particularly handy on warmer days.
It's an easy walk to combine with coffee, lunch, or a wander around downtown Luray.
Dog-Friendly Places to Eat Around Luray
Traveling with a dog can make restaurants a little trickier, but there are several places around Luray where you can eat outside with your pup.
West Main Market is one of our favorite casual options. Grab a sandwich or salad and sit outside in the beer and wine garden. It's right downtown and easy to combine with a walk along the Hawksbill Greenway.
Asian Station is another good option, especially if you're in the mood for Asian food rather than sandwiches. They have an outdoor seating area where you can eat with your dog.
Gathering Grounds Patisserie & Cafe is a good choice for breakfast, coffee, or lunch, with outdoor patio seating.
For a nicer meal, PORCH+VINE has outdoor seating and can be a good option when you want something a little more leisurely.
Outdoor seating and pet policies can change with weather, staffing, or the season, so it's always worth checking before you go.
Dog-Friendly Wineries Near Luray
A winery afternoon is one of the easiest activities to do with a dog in the Shenandoah Valley, and you have several options within driving distance of Luray.
Muse Vineyards
Muse Vineyards is our pick if you want to make a full afternoon of it.
Set near Woodstock along the Shenandoah River, Muse has a more polished destination-winery feel, with vineyard and mountain scenery, food, and plenty of reason to stay for a while.
Best for: Wine, food, and a full winery afternoon.
Cave Ridge Vineyard
Cave Ridge is another easy recommendation when you're bringing a dog.
Dogs are welcome on leash, and there's plenty of outdoor space, Shenandoah Valley scenery, food, and frequent events and live music.
Best for: A relaxed outdoor winery afternoon.
Wisteria Farm & Vineyard
Wisteria Farm and Vineyard is closer to Luray in Stanley and welcomes well-behaved leashed pets. The property also has walking trails and a creek behind the vineyard.
It's a much smaller, more rustic farm-winery experience than Muse or Cave Ridge, so we'd choose it when you're looking for something casual or when there's live music or an event happening.
Best for: A casual local stop close to Luray.
What to Know Before Bringing Your Dog to Shenandoah
Use a physical leash no longer than six feet. Shenandoah requires dogs to remain on a physical leash at all times; electronic and wireless leashes don't qualify.
Bring plenty of water. Don't count on streams as a safe drinking source, and remember that your dog may need more water than usual on a warm or strenuous hike.
Think about their paws. Rocky trails and hot surfaces can be tougher on dogs than we realize. Consider your dog's endurance and paw pads when choosing a hike.
Watch for wildlife. Shenandoah is home to black bears, deer, snakes, skunks, and plenty of smaller animals. A leash protects your dog as much as it protects the wildlife.
Pack out the poop bags. Bag your dog's waste and carry it until you reach a trash can. Don't leave filled bags beside the trail to pick up later.
Check for ticks. Give your dog—and yourself—a good tick check after hiking.
Download your maps before you go. Cell service is unreliable throughout much of Shenandoah National Park.
