It’s Hiking Season in New England - And Your Dog Knows It!
Ray and Coco LOVE a hike through Newton’s Lost Pond Reservation this time of the year!
Fall in New England is a magical time, with vibrant foliage, crisp air, and scenic landscapes that make it the perfect season for outdoor adventures. Now maybe I’m biased but in my estimation one of the best ways to enjoy this season is by taking a fun, leisurely and scenic hike with a dog (or three!)
At Boston Fetch we do everything in our power to give your pup a thoughtful, enriching, fun private or group walk - it’s our calling! But there’s 24 hours in a day and plenty of amazing trails, nature preserves, arboretums and wilderness to explore in New England - and this is the time of year to do it! Looking for an excuse to get out of the house and enjoy the colors leaves with your dog? Where’s a few:
Revy is taking in the view of downtown Boston from Peter’s Hill in the Arnold Arboretum in Roslindale. He’s also describing the view to Ray!
Beautiful Scenery: The fall foliage in New England is renowned for its stunning colors. Hiking trails are surrounded by vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a picturesque backdrop for your adventure.
Cooler Temperatures: The cooler fall temperatures are ideal for hiking, making it more comfortable for both you and your dog. This reduces the risk of overheating and allows for longer, more enjoyable hikes.
Bonding Time: Hiking with your dog is a great way to strengthen your bond. The shared experience of exploring new trails and enjoying nature together can enhance your relationship.
Physical Exercise: Hiking is an excellent form of exercise for both you and your dog. It helps to keep you both fit and healthy, improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall well-being.
Mental Stimulation: The sights, sounds, and smells of the trail provide mental stimulation for your dog, keeping them engaged and happy. It’s a great way to prevent boredom and reduce stress.
Austin is ready to dip her paws into the cooling water of the Charles River at Millennium Park in Newton
So now you're stoked to get some fresh air and your dog already has their leash on (if you need any pointers on great dog hiking gear check out our recommendations here). But where to go? Having relocated to Boston from the Pacific Northwest one of my favorite parts of the Northeast is how close everything is! Within 2 hours you can be in several different states with a massive variety of hiking and outdoor terrains - it’s amazing. Here are some of my favorite spots from across New England:
Dog-Friendly Trails in New England
Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land, Cutler, ME: This trail offers breathtaking views of the Bold Coast and is perfect for those looking for a moderate to difficult hike. The trail winds through dense forests, open meadows, and along jagged cliffs.
Mount Agamenticus, York, ME: With over 40 miles of trails, Mount Agamenticus provides endless opportunities for dog-friendly hiking. The summit offers stunning views of the Isles of Shoals, Cape Elizabeth, and even the Boston skyline on clear days.
Madame Sherri Forest, Chesterfield, NH: This unique hike features a beautiful stone stairway to nowhere, remnants of a “castle” that once stood in the woods. The forest offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to more rigorous hikes.
Mt. Kearsarge, Warner, NH: Accessible via Rollins State Park, this moderate to difficult hike rewards you with beautiful summit views of Mt. Monadnock and the surrounding hills.
Maudslay State Park, Newburyport, MA: This park features 480 acres of historic landscapes, including carriage roads, open meadows, and scenic overlooks of the Merrimack River. It’s perfect for a leisurely day out with your dog.
Blue Hills Reservation, Milton, MA: With over 125 miles of trails, this 7,000-acre park offers a diverse range of activities and stunning vistas. It’s a great escape from the city and perfect for a day of hiking with your dog.
Bradbury Mountain State Park, Pownal, ME: This park offers stunning views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and a campground. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Got the whole gang together for a cool, beautiful, and thrilling hike in Webster Woods! Ray, Franky, and Coco love it!
Bonus: If you're looking for some hidden gems right in your own backyard, try these spots in and around Boston for a mini-adventure!
Your pup may even be familiar with some of these spots as they are favorites among our walkers!
Nothing better than stumbling upon a clean river on a hike!
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash, bring plenty of water, and clean up after your pet to ensure these trails remain beautiful and accessible for everyone. And don’t forget your dog's flea and tick preventatives! October through December can be an active tick season in New England!
Oh, and humans can enjoy hiking too - just like our fearless leader, Sophie!