Virginia · National Park

Dogs in Shenandoah National Park

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendlyLeash: 6 feet maximum, at all times.

Yes. Shenandoah is a premier park for hiking with a dog.

Leashed dogs are allowed on about 480 of the park's 500 miles of trails, including the stretch of the Appalachian Trail that runs through it.
Photo: NPS Photo / Neal Lewis · NPS

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs are allowed on about 480 of the park's 500 miles of trails, including the stretch of the Appalachian Trail that runs through it.

Where dogs are banned

About 20 miles of steep or rocky trails (such as Old Rag) are off-limits. The park posts the full list.

Trail by trail

Dogs OKAppalachian Trail (in park)Leashed dogs welcome
Dogs OKRose River LoopLeashed dogs welcome
No dogsOld RagRock scramble, dogs prohibited
No dogsDark Hollow FallsDogs prohibited
No dogsBearfence MountainRock scramble, dogs prohibited

Leash rule

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Service animals

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

Official source
National Park Service
View the official NPS page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Park code
SHEN

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Shenandoah National Park?

Yes. Shenandoah is a premier park for hiking with a dog. Leashed dogs are allowed on about 480 of the park's 500 miles of trails, including the stretch of the Appalachian Trail that runs through it.

What is the leash rule at Shenandoah?

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Which trails allow dogs at Shenandoah?

Leashed dogs are allowed on: Appalachian Trail (in park), Rose River Loop.

Are service animals allowed at Shenandoah?

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