Dog walking in Somerville

Downtown Somerville

There is a great selection of pup-proof places to eat in Sommerville. Mannion’s Irish Pub serves up a feast of Irish-inspired fare, from seafood, steak and chicken dishes, to lighter soups and salads. Hansel ‘n Griddle features a selection of American-style meals, including French toast, wraps and paninis, or a hearty salad like the Buffalo Chicken Salad. If you love live music, visit the Dragonfly Music and Coffee Café where you and your pet can enjoy listening to some local tunes over dinner. Verve has a menu of New American food, including succulent steaks and seafood. Your dog can sit with you at any of these places at one of the outside tables.

Raritan

If you are in need of a place where Fido can escape the lead and go for a good run, head to the nearby Raritan Dog Park in Raritan. The half-acre park is fenced to keep your dog safe, and there are shady trees and some benches for you to utilise. You will need to register your dog at the Raritan Municipal Building first, but the park is free to use. Hungry after your visit to the park? Stop by Panera Bread or Randazzo's Pastry Shop and Deli for a delicious coffee, pastry, cake or cookie. You can sit with your dog at either of these places at one of the outside tables.

Martinsville

Washington Valley Park in Martinsville is a beautiful place to visit with your dog. Covering a huge 719-acre space, this is the place for some serious outdoor activity. The main trail is known as the Red Trail, but there are many shorter connecting trails that together make up over seven miles of walking paths around the large reservoir. These trails are known to be quite rocky in places, so watch your footing and keep an eye on your dog’s paws. Make sure you are decked out with comfortable shoes, insect repellent and sunscreen. You will need to keep your dog on the lead here and pack ample water for you both. There are lovely little spots to stop for a picnic too.

Bradley Gardens

The Raritan River provides spectacular scenery while taking your pup for a walk around the 339-acre Duke Island Park in Hillsborough. The main trail through this neighborhood is part of the Raritan River Greenway that connects Bridgewater, Raritan centre and Hillsborough, but there are several shorter, easy-walk trails through here. There are amenities provided at Duke Island Park, including pavilions for shade or picnics, toilets, a playground and a visitor’s centre where you can get maps or find out more information about the local area. You need to keep your dog on a lead in Duke Island Park, and clean up after him.

Somerset Canal Road

A little drive east of Somerville is Somerset where there is a picturesque section of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. Part of the Rails-to-trails network, this trail follows the Raritan River around the top of South Bound Brook. The entire trail is just shy of 38 miles, but you can choose as much or as little as you like. The elevation is low, so it is a walk suitable for all levels of fitness and ability. Your pup needs to stay on a leash here, and always clean up after him. You will also need to bring your water bottle and drinking bowl, as there aren’t any fountains along this section.