Route 66 State Park

Route 66 has been called many names such as the Mother Road and America's Highway. Before Interstates, it was the best way to cross most of the continent. The road began in Chicago and ended in Santa Monica. It was started in 1926 and was officially removed from American highway maps in 1985, but not before casting a long shadow over popular culture. 

The road figures prominently in The Grapes of Wrath. A chain of gas stations was named Phillips 66 after the road. It inspired the song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" by Bobby Troup, which, in turn, became the theme song to a TV show called "Route 66" that took place along the road. Today, Route 66 is little more than a memory, except for some faded towns and parks. 

One park is the Route 66 State Park, in Missouri. The park was built along the road's route over the former town of Times Beach. The town is largely gone, and in its place is a park over 400 acres. The site of the old cafe is now home to the park's Visitor's Center. The park offers hiking, fishing, and other outdoor sports, which you are encouraged to bring your dog. 

There are literally miles of trails, both paved and dirt, in the Route 66 State Park. Most of the trails at the Route 66 State Park are fairly flat and easy to walk, and many are handicapped accessible. The state has made poop bags and water available throughout the park, as well as benches for people and covered shelters, but you are expected to keep your dog on a leash. 

There are picnic grounds in the park that are equipped with a fish cleaning station and grill. The park is along the picturesque Meramec river. Fishing is also encouraged, so if your dog enjoys playing in the water, just be aware that there may be lures, hooks, and lines nearby. There is beach access from the Route 66 State Park, including some swimming, so it would be a nice place to let Fido go for a swim.