Appalachian Trail at Big Meadows

Dogs on a leash all year

The Appalachian Trail through Shenandoah allows leashed dogs. Some nearby side trails are closed to dogs: check the park list.

Source: National Park Service, Shenandoah National Park: Pets. Checked October 28, 2026.

Follow the signs at the trailhead: parks can close areas to dogs for wildlife.

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Shenandoah National Park: the rule in full

One of the few national parks that allow pets on trails: leashed pets (6 feet or less) are allowed on most trails. A short list of trails is closed to pets, including Fox Hollow and Stony Man (beyond the Appalachian Trail); check the park page for the full list.

Nearby beaches

• North End BeachNo dogs 10am to 6pm, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Off-leash dogs allowed from the day after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day. Dogs allowed the rest of the time (local leash laws apply)
• Virginia Beach Resort Area beachNo dogs from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Off-leash dogs allowed from the day after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day. Dogs allowed the rest of the time (local leash laws apply)
• Croatan BeachNo dogs 10am to 6pm, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Off-leash dogs allowed from the day after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day. Dogs allowed the rest of the time (local leash laws apply)
• Sandbridge BeachNo dogs 10am to 6pm, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Off-leash dogs allowed from the day after Labor Day to the Friday before Memorial Day. Dogs allowed the rest of the time (local leash laws apply)