National Forests · VT,NY

Dogs in Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendly

Dogs are welcome across Vermont's Green Mountain and New York's Finger Lakes National Forests, the only national forests in those two states. Trails range from Vermont's woodland ridges to the Finger Lakes' Interloken Trail through open pastures.

Dogs can hike the forests' trails, including the Interloken Trail in the Finger Lakes and routes through the Green Mountains. Keep your dog leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and under control on general forest trails, where you may share the path with horseback riders and mountain bikers.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can hike the forests' trails, including the Interloken Trail in the Finger Lakes and routes through the Green Mountains. Keep your dog leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and under control on general forest trails, where you may share the path with horseback riders and mountain bikers.

Where dogs are not allowed

Designated swim areas and posted beaches typically bar pets.

Seasonal closures

During mud season in early spring, warmer temperatures and saturated ground make many trails soft, and the forests ask visitors to avoid damaging them; most forest roads also stay closed until mid-spring.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
U.S. Forest Service
View the Forest Service page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Forests

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests?

Dogs are welcome across Vermont's Green Mountain and New York's Finger Lakes National Forests, the only national forests in those two states. Trails range from Vermont's woodland ridges to the Finger Lakes' Interloken Trail through open pastures. Dogs can hike the forests' trails, including the Interloken Trail in the Finger Lakes and routes through the Green Mountains. Keep your dog leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and under control on general forest trails, where you may share the path with horseback riders and mountain bikers.

What is the leash rule at Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests?

During mud season in early spring, warmer temperatures and saturated ground make many trails soft, and the forests ask visitors to avoid damaging them; most forest roads also stay closed until mid-spring.

Where are dogs not allowed at Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests?

Designated swim areas and posted beaches typically bar pets.

Are service animals allowed at Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.