Dog walking in Amherst

Amherst

Amherst is a rural town with single-family homes, a few public schools, and some small businesses. There are wooded country lanes here where you and your pal can go for a daily walk. Want to plan a day or overnight adventure with your fur baby? Head northeast about 23.7 miles to James River State Park. Go hiking on one of the trails in this 1,500-acre facility. You can also reserve a cabin or campsite and stay awhile. Dogs are permitted here as long as you keep them on a leash that's no longer than six feet whenever they're outside. Clean up after your pup.

Sweet Briar

Just southwest of Amherst, you'll find the Sweet Briar neighborhood. This area includes a college campus, student housing, and private residences. There are plenty of country roads here where you and Spot can take a stroll together. When you want to get out in nature, take your furry pal 13.5 miles south to Percival's Island Natural Area on the James River. This wooded oasis has a paved trail that cuts across the property. There are also several natural surface pathways here. Enjoy the wildlife and river breezes with your canine companion. Remember to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up any messes.

Monroe

The neighborhood of Monroe is just 8.4 miles southwest of town. This rural suburb includes single-family homes, a few churches, and some manufacturing plants. For an annual membership fee, you and your fur baby can go exploring in Izaak Walton Park, located just east of the neighborhood. This 325-acre facility has a campground, fishing lake, and other amenities. Spend a night or longer in nature with your four-footed friend. Dogs are welcome in designated areas of the park as long as they're on a leash or confined. Bring waste bags so that you can clean up after your pup.

West Briar

The residential area of West Briar is about ten miles southwest of Amherst. This community offers quiet roads where you and your fur baby can get some exercise. For a day in the park, head south about eight miles to Riverside Park in northwest Lynchburg. Located along the James River, this pawesome 49-acre facility has wooded hillsides and an overlook of the ravine and river below. Hike along the Alpine Trail with your canine pal and enjoy the scenic views. You can bring dogs here as long as they're on a leash and under your control. Remember to clean up any droppings.

Winesap

The small burg of Winesap is 11 miles northwest of Amherst. This rural area has private residences on wooded lots. You'll be able to take strolls down the road with your pooch here. For a special adventure, head just over nine miles south to the Blackwater Creek Natural Area. This wooded greenway follows the creek and has several hiking paths by the water and through the trees. Try to catch sight of wildlife such as hawks, pileated woodpeckers, and herons while you enjoy exploring the area with your furry pal. You can bring dogs on a leash as long as you pick up their waste.