Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in Catawba, NC

The dog-friendly Lake Norman State Park is a great place to hike and explore with Fido in Troutman, NC. There are several trails to hike on with your furry friend ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty. Parkgoers can also enjoy a picnic, boating, swimming, and fishing, among other activities. Dogs are not allowed in swimming areas but are permitted everywhere else as long as they remain leashed.

The beautiful off-leash Preserve Dog Park is a favorite with local pooches for its lovely trails, nature areas and drinking fountain. This Davidson, NC, recreation area is for residents only, and pets must be licensed and have current rabies vaccinations to visit. Licenses may be purchased at Davidson Town Hall for a fee.

Leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners when visiting the pet-friendly Jetton Park! This 104-acre recreation area, located in Cornelius, NC, features several walking paths and trails, including one that runs along Lake Norman. Visitors can also enjoy picnic sites, tennis courts, a sunning beach, restrooms and more. Note that an entry fee may apply when visiting the park.

The Troutman Rail-Trail is one of 1600 rail-trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors. Previously an unused railroad corridor, this "rail-trail" is now a great place to walk Fido in Troutman! The map below shows a parking area with convenient access to the Troutman Rail-Trail. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has generously provided map data for this trail to Bring Fido for informational purposes only. For more detailed trail information, please visit TrailLink.com.

The pet-friendly Mountain Island Educational State Forest in Stanley, NC offers a scenic natural retreat full of plant and animal life. Educational programs are hosted frequently for all ages to promote awareness of North Carolina's forest health. Bring your dog along to explore the wooded trails and learn together.

Riverbend Park is a dog-friendly spot in Conover, NC. The 690-acre area features lovely trees and grassy lawns with 1.25-miles of shoreline along the Catawba River. You and Fido can enjoy a hike on the 19.7 miles of trails, where you'll see a variety of wildlife habitats that range from freshwater wetlands to upland forest. Come and experience the beauty and diversity of Catawba County's natural heritage at Riverbend Park.