Wild Oak

If you fancy spending a night in the great outdoors with your best fur buddy, try hiking the Wild Oak Trail. The trail originates and ends, very conveniently, in a parking lot in the small town of Stokesville. It is over twenty-six miles long which no-one can walk in a day, but if you want to do the whole route with your four-legged fur friend, there are plenty of places to pitch a tent along the way. While the trail does cut through the wilderness, and you'll find it's quite isolated, your fur baby still needs to stay on their leash the whole time. 

The Wild Oak trail, even though it is classed as a moderate hike, passes through some steep and rugged terrain. Whether you're planning on doing just a partial section of the trail or completing the full loop, you'll need to go prepared with good boots, sufficient provisions, and water for at least a couple of days. You and your pup will enjoy the adventure as you trek up Mount Shenandoah. The views over the pine tree covered mountainsides and through the valleys are pawsome. You'll both be getting your feet wet too, as there's a couple of river gorges to cross. These can be tricky and shouldn't be tackled if the waters are swiftly flowing.

This trail isn't only mountain hiking, as it also passes through some stunning forested areas as well. They're the perfect spot for you and pup to take a rest. The trail is easier hiking in the woods as it's more of a forest road than a rock covered trail. If you're tempted to pick up a stick and throw it for your pup to fetch, don't. All wood needs to be left where it's fallen and can't be collected. Your pup won't be missing out; this hike will be more than exercise enough for them. Have a pup-tastic trek!