What to do with your dog in Asheville, NC

Asheville is a vibrant city and one of the main population centers in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you are traveling with your dog, it just happens to be one of the more dog-friendly cities in North Carolina.

If you are on the road, be sure to look up Asheville pet-friendly hotels as you don’t know who will accept your canine buddies. Arriving with your dog to a hotel with no clear pet policy may lead to you getting turned away or requiring an up-front deposit.

Having said that, Asheville is quite the underrated city to have fun with your dog. Mostly consisting of outdoor activities, your pup won’t have to feel stifled if move there or are just passing through.

Big Butt Trail

Ignoring the funny name, this is a hefty 4.8-mile trail that will help your dog blow off some steam. The trail will take you through lush forests and will skirt along a national park and a private hunting club. It isn’t a walk for faint-hearted humans or pets.

Appalachian Vinter

The Appalachian Vinter is one of the few pubs in town where you can bring your dog along while enjoying some locally brewed beer. It has a rustic, homely atmosphere where lot’s of locals gather to socialize, with or without their pets.

Chevron Trading Post and Bead Co.

This is an arts and crafts store that has been reported to be pet-friendly. While it isn’t necessarily an attraction for your dog, you are free to bring your best friend with you while shopping around for supplies.

French Broad River Brewery

This is yet another pet-friendly pub with plenty of craft beers. You can sit inside or outside with your dog and it is open every day.

Three Dog Bakery

If your pup needs some snacks, skip going to Walmart and get some luxury treats at one of the few dog-centered bakeries in the world. Treats in the bakery are styled to look just like cakes, candies, and cookies but without the unhealthy ingredients.

You are free to take your dog into the bakery as if it were a public cafe and enjoy the atmosphere with your unique treat. Not every city in the world has this, so at least try it once.

The Urban Trail

At just under 2 miles in length, this walk through the city center is quite refreshing and engaging. You will walk by city sculptures, local businesses, and other landmarks to help you understand the city’s history and culture. It is more mentally stimulating than it is physically and history lovers will appreciate what the city has to offer.


If you run out of ideas with what to do with your dog in Asheville, you’ve probably haven’t expanded your horizons. Be sure to check out all the public parks, hit up local pet stores and even take a stroll through the town with your dog. At the end of the day, have a reservation for a pet-friendly hotel for peace of mind.

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