Dog walking in Natural Bridge

Buena Vista

The Chessie Nature Trail in nearby Buena Vista is a seven mile dog-friendly trail that runs northwest up to Lexington through farmland and forest areas. The trail follows the route of the old Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad and is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by the nation-wide Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Dogs are permitted, but keep your pup on a lead as there is lots of wildlife in the area, including larger animals such as cows and donkeys. Glen Maury Park is also in this area and worth a visit. The 315-acre site has wooded trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and often has special events planned. There is also a pet-friendly campground here, should you wish to make a weekend of it.

Southwest Lexington

The Boxerwood Nature Center and Woodland Garden in Lexington, just 13 miles north of Natural Bridge, is a great day out for you, your pup and your whole family. The 15-acre nature center and woodland garden is a beautiful place to wander around, take in the sights of the surrounding mountains and admire the incredible selection of plant life on show. There are also 26 species of butterflies identified here and a friendly turtle family in the wetlands to meet. For a little trail walk, head into the Pioneer Forest, or relax under the shade while the kids enjoy the Children’s Play Trail. For a bit of fun, seek out the Fairy Forest or the Big Chair for a family photo. Dogs are welcome throughout the garden, but must be kept on a lead at all times.

North Bedford

Otter Creek Campground and Trail is 16 miles east of Natural Bridge in Bedford and another great pup-friendly place to get out into nature. The trails here are part of the 369 miles of hiking trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway through the mountains. It is a picturesque spot, but go prepared with plenty of food, water, appropriate clothing and pup paraphernalia such as a bowl, lead and clean up bags. The Otter Creek Trail is 3.5 miles long and runs from the campground to the James River Visitor’s Centre. It is a fairly easy hike and is close to the motorway. The shorter Otter Lake Loop Trail at just under one mile is another pleasant walk, as is the 0.4-mile Trail of Trees that extends from the Visit Centre and through a shaded stream drainage, or the 0.4-mile Canal Lock Trail that takes you along a bridge to the old Battery Creek Lock.

East Lexington

If you are looking for a great way to relax for a while with your pup, head up to East Lexington and catch a movie with your dog at Hull’s Drive In. A concession stand sells all your favourite movie snacks, such as popcorn, donuts and soft drinks, as well as a selection of hot food. Park up and watch the big screen from the comfort of your own car, with your beloved furry travel companion by your side. This place loves dogs, and will even give your pal a treat at the gate! Lexington Coffee Roasters is close by if you wish to grab a hot drink before or after the show, with delicious bagels and cookies also on offer. You can sit with your dog at one of the outside tables here.

Buffalo Bend/ Buffalo Forge

The Lake A. Willis Robertson Recreation Area is 21 miles north of Natural Bridge n Lexington, and a lovely place to visit or even camp for a few days with your pup. The property is set over 581 acres and includes a 26-acre fishing lake. There are eight miles of trails to enjoy here, including a pleasant 1.6-mile trail around the lake. Come prepared for a forest adventure here – pack bug spray, comfortable, sturdy shoes and enough food and water for you both during your trip. You will also need to bring your supply of clean up bags and keep your pet leashed so both him and the local wildlife stay safe.