If you're looking to get out in the woods, consider taking your pooch to Rocky Knob Park. This mountain bike facility has a series of dirt trails where you can go hiking. You can follow stacked loops for an almost nine-mile route or pick one section for a shorter outing. Out here, you'll see some scenic vistas, navigate through rock formations, and walk in areas full of wildflowers and rhododendrons. Restrooms are available near the parking lot.
The first loop that you'll encounter as you leave the parking area is the Rocky Branch Trail. Follow the posted signs for hikers and veer right at the first intersection. This portion has an undulating terrain with some twists and turns, log bridges, stone steps, a rhododendron grove, and a stream. At one point, you can take the Middle Earth Trail offshoot. This road offers more challenging hills and a rocky surface. From Rocky Branch, you can continue on to Boat Rock Loop. Climb between boulders to the boat-shaped rock formation on this section. Up here, you'll pass through a rock garden and cross some raised wooden bridges. The highest elevation of the trail system on Ol' Hoss. When you take this 0.75-mile route, you'll ascend the mountain on some tight switchbacks. Use caution as you descend from this point!
Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail system if they're on a leash. The course is challenging, so make sure to bring water for you and your pup. Remember to collect and carry out any waste.
These natural surface pathways provide a strenuous workout for you and your pup, but with so many paths to choose from, you can choose your level of challenge. The well-groomed course is three-feet wide and increases in difficulty as you go deeper into the park. Have a furrifically good hike!