Top Dog-friendly Hiking and Walking Trails Near Kennesaw, Georgia

Are you thinking about sitting on the sofa binge watching Game of Thrones this weekend? We’ve got a much better idea, head out and take your dog for a hike.  There are so many fun trails in Georgia that we decided to put together our top dog-friendly hiking and walking trails near Kennesaw.  

Take a Hike

Going for a long walk or hike can help you de-stress from a long week and what better companion than your best friend? If you’re looking for even more reasons to take a hike, check out the blog 10 Reasons You Should Be Hiking with Your Dog.  It’s full of tips and resources for hiking with your dog. 

Kennesaw Mountain

You knew this was going to be at the top of the list! Kennesaw Mountain was named favorite hiking & running trail near Atlanta by Atlanta Trails. 

With trails under a mile and over 16 miles, you may want to pack a lunch and make a full day of it in one of the picnic areas. 

If you (and your dog) enjoy bird watching, bring your binoculars.  Kennesaw Mountain was designated a Globally Important Bird Area in 2000, the first designation in Georgia.  It’s known for being the best place in the state to watch migratory birds.  You can see birds from woodpeckers to cuckoos.  Check out this full list of bird sightings at Kennesaw Mountain when you plan your hike. 

With over 22 miles and 23 different trails, there are lots to do and see at Kennesaw Mountain. There are so many options, you’ll want to make sure to check out a map of the trails at Kennesaw Mountain before heading out. 

Mountain-to-River Trail

Although the new Mountain-to-River Trail is concrete, it’s a great choice if you’re thinking of walking to Marietta for a festival on the Square. You’ll see some of the new murals on buildings around the square and art on the fence along the trail.

If it’s close to a holiday, please make sure there are no scheduled fireworks going on at the Marietta Square by checking out their event calendar.  Loud noises can terrify some dogs and put a damper on your hike. 

This 1.8 miles long trail connects Kennesaw Mountain to the Chattahoochee River. 

Noonday Creek Trail (Kennesaw and Woodstock)

Noonday Creek Trail has two sections, one in Kennesaw that starts at Kennesaw Mountain and runs along Noonday Creek to Bells Ferry Road, near Town Center Mall.  The second section in Woodstock is considered “one of the most dog-friendly hikes in the Atlanta area” because you can access Woofstock dog park by crossing the bridge over Noonday Creek. 

Olde Rope Mill River Trail

Olde Rope Mill River Trail may be the shortest trail on our list at 1.8 miles, but it isn’t lacking in the excitement category.  There are picnic areas, decks overlooking the river, historic ruins to see, fishing and even the opportunity to take your dog canoeing or kayaking. Please make sure you BOTH have a life vest, as safety comes first!

One of the best features is a secret waterfall.  Unfortunately, you won’t be able to hike to it because it’s only accessible from the water.  Is your dog up for a canoe or kayak trip?  This most definitely sounds like a trip both you and your dog won’t soon forget!

Nature Walks and Swims

If your dog really loves nature walks and enjoys a good swim, but you don’t have time to go as often as you like, make sure to sign them up for our Canine Fitness and Wellness Program.  Dogs LOVE our nature trails out back and our new canine fitness pool.

Preparation

Before you head out on the trails with your dog, make sure that you are prepared with plenty of water, their leash with ID Tags and lots of poop bags. 

If you plan to go in the water, both you and your dog need a life vest. 

If you are going on one of the trails that is concrete, make sure not to go while it’s too hot and check the trail with your hand and make sure it’s not too hot for your dog to walk on. Use the 3-second test to see how hot it is.  If you wouldn’t want to walk on it barefoot because it’s too hot, you shouldn’t make your dog.

Now that you’ve seen our top dog-friendly hiking and walking trails near Kennesaw, did your favorite make the list?  Maybe you know of a hidden gem that we’re all dying to hear about. Let us know about it in the comments!

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We’re Committed to Your Pets’ Long-Term Well-Being

At Creekside, we’re always looking for ways to make you and your pets’ experience more enjoyable. This summer, we’ve undertaken many improvements.  Some of which are visible to you like the recent sidewalk repairs.  Others like the additional play space and shade awnings for existing play areas in the rear of the facility are not.

We’re also beginning to change over gravel play areas to artificial K9 grass for those days that the grass play yards are too muddy/wet for play.  Earlier this year, we also installed equipment to filter pets’ drinking water.  And this fall we’ll begin painting the large and junior suites. 

All of these improvements are part of our pledge to offer excellent service and make your pets’ stay at Creekside safe and enjoyable!

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