Dog walking in Elkton

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is right on the edge of town, so it’d be a huge faux paw not to visit! This beautiful, lush green space is well known for its rocky peaks and waterfalls, and has over 500 miles of trails all told, including a 100-mile stretch of the famous Appalachian Trail. The trails vary in difficulty, so you and your pooch are covered whether you’re looking for a challenge, or for a more sedate stroll. Pets aren’t allowed on a couple of hikes, though -- it’s best to look up a trail map before you go, just to make sure.

Smithland Rd.

Make no bones about it -- your pooch will love a trip to the Smithland Road Dog Park in Harrisonburg! The park is huge -- there’s plenty of room in both the large and small dog areas for your furball to leap about and tire themselves out in. There’s also a covered shelter with some benches, so tired owners can chill out and take a load off on a hot day. Bags and water are provided, so just bring your pup, some favorite toys and prepare to play! Careful, though -- the park’s surface is mostly dirt and grass, so you might want to bring a towel in case your buddy gets muddy.

Park View

Pups and owners that like their nature a little more maintained might enjoy a leashed stroll in Harrisonburg’s Purcell Park! The park’s 1.5-mile paved trail makes for a calm, relaxing walk on a nice day, and non-furry family members might certainly appreciate the large playground. Purcell Park is also home to the Bluestone Trail, which connects the green space to James Madison University. Afterward, you two can chow down at Tutti Gusti Pizza! This Harrisonburg gem serves up a delicious thin crust and caters to canine companions outside. Just remember to bring a leash and plenty of waste bags for your adventures in this part of town!

Lake Acres

If your pooch loves swimming as part of their off-leash exercise, you’d need to be barking mad not to bring them to Chris Greene Lake in Charlottesville! The fenced-in area here really has it all -- woodland to sniff and explore, an acre of open space that’s ideal for games of tug-of-war or catch, and of course, access to the lake. The dog run is well-shaded by mature trees, making this an ideal option for hot days -- your furball can run and play to their heart’s content without you worrying about them overheating! Waste bags are provided, but there's no drinking fountain -- you'll need to bring your own bottle.