Dog-Friendly Activities in Gerton, NC

The North Carolina Arboretum is a 434-acre natural treasure with 65 acres of cultivated gardens and 10 miles of dog-friendly hiking and biking trails adjacent to the Bent Creek Experimental Forest in Asheville, NC. The trails are rated easy to difficult, and leashed dogs are allowed on all of them. Dogs are not, however, allowed in any of the buildings and some of the gardens. An entry fee does apply to visitors.

Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such is a family-owned apple orchard and farm in Hendersonville, NC, offering seasonal apple picking and lavender farm, a pumpkin patch, corn maze, apple cannon, bakery, and country store on more than 120 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Open seasonally spring through fall (and special holiday hours), leashed dogs and visitors can enjoy fresh-picked apples, hot cider donuts, pies, cookies, fresh cider, and apple cider slushies while taking part in family-friendly farm activities. Whether you choose to pick your own apples from the orchard or select your favorite variety of pre-picked apples, your dog is welcome to join in on the fun! There's a bakery on site and a farm store that also welcome Fido inside.

Burntshirt Vineyards is a pet-friendly winery in Hendersonville, NC. Dogs are welcome on Burntshirt’s walking trails, gardens, and in the tasting room but not on tours or in the vineyard. All of their wine is made from local, Blue Ridge Appalachian Mountain fruit and the high elevation produces grapes perfect for varietals not typically grown in the United States, like Gruner Veltliner. Enjoy a wine tasting, glass or bottle of wine on their verandah overlooking the vineyards. The Vintner’s Table next to the tasting room. features specialty menus for lunch and dinner.

Historic Gray Line Asheville Trolley Tours is a pet-friendly transportation service and attraction in Asheville, NC. Dogs up to 25 lbs are welcome on the tours provided they remain in the owner’s lap. Please note that passengers with pet dogs can only get off at the Omni Grove Park Inn stop (Stop 2) if they are overnight guests at the Inn.

Justus Orchard in Hendersonville, NC, is pet friendly. It's been a great spot for picking apples for over 100 years. The orchard offers you and Fido the chance to meet the owner's dog, too, while you're picking your own fruit. They're not only known for their apples, but blackberries Asian pears and blueberries, too! There's also a bakery and taproom on site. Keep in mind, they operate seasonally; check their website for hours of operation.

Triple Falls and High Falls Trails in Pisgah Forest, NC, is dog friendly. It's a moderately easy, 2.6-mile hike that will take about 1.5 hours to complete with Fido. Although this trail may be short, it will certainly take you past some of the most beautiful areas on the way to the waterfalls. Color is plentiful in spring when the flowers are blooming and fall when the leaves are changing. Please note that dogs must be on a leash and under control of the owner. Hunting allowed by permit on certain days.

Saint Paul Mountain Farms in Hendersonville, NC is dog friendly! It's a family-owned winery located on acreage that has been farmed by their family for more than nine generations. Dogs are welcome in the tasting room with both indoor and outdoor seating with spectacular views of the vines. Be sure to try the hard apple cider named after the vineyard dog, Wallace.

Point Lookout Vineyards is a pet-friendly winery in Hendersonville, NC, with 30-mile views. Visit the Tasting Room, tour the Vineyard, and check out the Wine Cellar. Dogs are welcome inside and out, year-round. Small plates available as well as food truck on site some days.

Chimney Rock State Park is a 1,000 acre scenic attraction located in the Hickory Nut Gorge of Chimney Rock, NC. The park features dog-friendly hiking trails and amazing 75-mile views. Hickory Nut Falls Trail is a beautiful hike to take with your leashed dog at any time of year. The 1.4 mile round trip leads visitors to one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Magnificent views await those who take this gently rolling trail with gradual, moderate uphill sections, rocky terrain, and a small staircase at the base of the falls. The hike should take 45 minutes to an hour. Picnic tables, benches, and resting areas are located at several points along the trail.

Walk around outside with Fido at the pet-friendly Tanger Outlets in Asheville, NC. This open-air lifestyle destination includes nearly 75 stores and eateries, featuring some of the most popular brand names. This location also hosts Asheville’s first Pet Way Station. In a grassy area located near the West Elm entrance, pet owners can take their dogs for a cool drink of water and to enjoy the facilities. Bags and a receptacle are provided, along with their very own “fire hydrant.” Keep in mind that each store will have their own dog-entry policy.

Discover a broad selection of goods at Mast General Store, a dog-friendly retailer in Asheville, NC. Fido is welcome inside as long as they remain leashed. This quintessential store sells a variety of food and candy, apparel, outdoor gear, gifts, decorative pieces, and seasonal items. They even have a pet section with collars/leashes, dog bowls, toys, locally-made treats, and more.

Bullington Gardens in Hendersonville, NC is dog-friendly. This 12 acre horticultural education center and public botanical garden provides hands-on education to students, youth clubs & adults. It's also a place where visitors can stroll the grounds, enjoy the gardens and find a peaceful spot to relax. Leashed dogs are welcome on the property and water is provided beside the gift shop.

Located adjacent to the Grove Park Inn, Grovewood Village is a wonderland of creativity and history in Asheville, NC. Bring Fido along as you stroll through the pet-friendly sculpture gardens, visit a working artist's studio, learn more about Asheville's early history, explore a collection of rare automobiles, and browse an expansive collection of American craft. Grovewood features arts and crafts from over 500 artists located throughout the United States. Just keep Fido on a leash at all times.

Lookout Brewing Company is a dog-friendly spot in Black Mountain, NC. Grab a small batch craft brew and a plate of freshly popped popcorn and relax alongside your canine companion, as leashed and quiet dogs are welcome in its tasting room and on its outdoor patio. They even offer water bowls and treats to visiting four-legged friends. Mac's Burgers & Cheesesteaks is on site most evenings throughout the week.

Leashed dogs allowed to explore the extensive grounds and roam through the more than 250 acres of landscaped gardens at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. Fido is also welcome to join you at several restaurants with dog-friendly, outdoor seating in Antler Hill Village. Please note that dogs are not permitted inside any buildings. Open daily throughout the year. Hours vary by season and admission rates vary by month; visit website or call for specific information.

Dogs are welcome to join their owners at the pet-friendly New Belgium Brewing in Asheville, NC. This popular brewery is a pretty spot to take Fido for a cold one. Situated next to the river, Fido can sit beside you on the outdoor patio or around the fire pit. There's no food on site, but you may bring your own or order from one of the visiting food trucks.

Whether you're a water sports expert or novice, non-stop action is waiting for you at the pet-friendly Lake Lure Adventure Company in Lake Lure, NC. Dogs are welcome to accompany you on the pontoon boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. Strap your four-legged sidekick into a doggie life vest and enjoy the views from the lake with Fido! Each of the certified instructors will be more than happy to show you the ropes to ensure your lake experience is a safe one. Dogs are allowed to play in the water as long as they're closely monitored.

Bold Rock Mills River Cidery in Mills River, NC, is a pet-friendly cidery located just outside of Asheville. The high-quality apples grown in the area help to create award winning ciders. Dogs are welcome outside in the expansive yard area and deck, as well as inside the tasting room. Guests can enjoy tastings, pints and flights! They have live music throughout the week and food truck on site. Check their website for current event schedule.

Oklawaha Brewing Company is a dog-friendly nano brewery in Hendersonville, NC, committed to brewing high quality beer while maintaining a strong sense of community and environmental responsibility. Fido can join you on the sidewalk patio. Their taps are dedicated to seasonally-inspired flavors and will at times incorporate produce from local farms. Check their social media for special events.

Montford Park Players in Asheville, NC is pet friendly. Enjoy the works of Shakespeare in the company of your furry best friend at the Hazel Robinson Ampitheatre. This is North Carolina's longest-running Shakespeare Festival, free for the public to enjoy. Throughout the summer, dogs are welcome to join humans for the performances. In the winter, performances are held at the Asheville Masonic Temple where dogs are not permitted.