Dog walking in Sharpsburg

Sharpsburg Historic District

A town can’t have a history like Sharpsburg’s without collecting a few ghost stories. If tales of the paranormal pique your interest, you and your pooch might want to check out one of the Sharpsburg Civil War Ghost Tours! Your buddy is welcome to join as long as they’re leashed, and the guides will also fill you in on local history, so you’ll learn something interesting be you skeptical or superstitious. If spooky "tails" aren’t your thing, don’t worry -- you and your furry friend can check out The Marketplace of Sharpsburg and take a look at the town’s artisanal foods and crafts.

Burnside Bridge Rd

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a real mutts-visit! The park stretches for over 180 miles from Georgetown to Cumberland, taking in historical sites like the original canal lockhouses. Not only that, but it’s a seriously scenic stretch -- the trail is actually a converted canal towpath and runs past forest, waterfalls, and fields of wildflowers. The trail is flat and wide, making this an accessible day out for all ages and abilities. Careful though -- the area is a popular spot to ride bikes, so watch out for speeding cyclists! As always, don't fur-get to bring water and doggie waste bags.

Downtown Shepherdstown

If you and your buddy are looking for somewhere to chow down, look no fur-ther than Downtown Shepherdstown! For a pick-me-up, consider stopping in at Lost Dog Coffee and Fine Art Emporium Drink. You can check out paintings from local artists while you order a cup of their seriously special cold brew, and wagging tails are welcome outside. If you’re looking for more of a meal, pop in to the Blue Moon Cafe. Their pizza is excellent, and they cater to canines on their gorgeous, streamside patio. Or for a sweet treat, go to the Shepherdstown Sweet Shop and Bakery, and be sure to try the rum balls!

Gathland State Park

If your pooch likes hiking, you’d need to be barking mad not to bring them to Gathland State Park! The trail here is rated as moderate and runs for two and a half miles through wooded wonderland. The end of the trail intersects with the Appalachian Trail if you need more exercise. The park isn’t just a fantastically fur-friendly hiking option, though -- cultured canines might get a kick out of taking a look at the monument to the Battle of South Mountain. There’s also a museum to war correspondent Alfred Townsend, but unfortunately, your pup won’t be able to enter the building.

Jefferson

Hagerstown Dog Park is a pawfect place to let your little tearaway lose the leash! Located in the quietly residential yet central neighborhood of Jefferson, the park has enough room for even the most energetic of fur-balls to tire themselves out in. There’s a separate small dog area, too, so your pooch can play and socialize no matter their size. The dog park is also the only one in the area that stays open until 10 pm year round, and it has a security camera and ample street lighting, which means that you can get the best for your buddy even if you’re stuck on the late shift.