BringFido's Ruff Guide to New Hampshire

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of gallivanting with your Greyhound on a trip to New Hampshire? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in The Granite State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code GRANITE.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in New Hampshire.

Get Fido’s Tail on the Rail

North Conway, NH
"I deserve this." Photo by BringFido/Carol

For breathtaking views of the White Mountain region, ‘pawsengers’ should climb aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad. Departing from North Conway, the Mountaineer will take you and your canine conductor on the Iconic Notch Scenic Train Ride. This five-hour trip offers dramatic mountain views and crosses Frankenstein Trestle and Willey Brook Bridge. Boarding begins at 11:30 am, and lunch may be purchased from the on-board concession cart. If you don’t have time for a full-day adventure, the company also offers shorter tours, like the Bartlett Excursion Train Ride, which rolls through the Saco River Valley in under two hours. Leashed dogs ride for free in coach cars on all trips. The railroad operates year-round except for maintenance closures in March. Train schedules vary, and reservations are recommended.

Rest your caboose in a guestroom or private cottage at Whitney’s Inn at Jackson. Just a short drive from North Conway, the hotel is situated on 12 acres with a stocked trout pond (bring your fishing gear) and surrounded by miles of hiking trails for you and Fido to explore. Ask for Room #20, a ground floor unit with rustic wood beam ceilings and a private entrance ideal for early morning or late night walks with your pup.

The Long Road to the Top

Gorham, NH
“How do you like the view?” Photo by @mr.dunkin_the.frenchie

If you and your pooch are experienced hikers looking for a challenge, hike up New England’s tallest peak, Mount Washington, and then take the pet-friendly shuttle back down. If your pup isn’t up for the difficult ascent, you can still enjoy stunning views by driving the Mt. Washington Auto Road to the top of the mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views of New Hampshire’s White Mountains as you drive the famous Kancamagus Highway through the White Mountain National Forest. The Kanc, as it’s known by the locals, is most popular during the fall foliage season, but this scenic byway is frequented year-round for its beautiful natural setting. Grab Fido’s leash and spend some time outside the car, hiking on one of the many trails found along the highway.

Treat Fido to a much-needed break at The Glen House in Gorham. The spacious Shaker-style accommodations offer panoramic views of Mount Washington, and your pup will be greeted with a welcome note, yummy treats, pet bed, and food bowls upon arrival. During your stay, walk across the street to Great Glen Trails, where leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you hike, bike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe.

Watch Out for Whales

Rye, NH
Having a whale of a time. Photo by @jimsteph_v

Salty sea dogs are invited to join the experienced crew of Granite State Whale Watch on an expedition along the New Hampshire shoreline. With a 99% sighting record, the chance of spotting giant Humpback, Finback, Minke or highly endangered Right Whales is high. Only dogs with experience on the water are welcome to join the tour. When you make it back on dry land, take a beachfront stroll at Fort Foster Park just across the Gulf in Kittery. Although the park is closed to vehicular traffic after Labor Day, pedestrians and canines are still permitted inside the park from sunrise to sunset, and parking is allowed outside the gatehouse. Head into nearby Portsmouth for dinner at The District, home to the largest heated patio in town.

Drop anchor at The Port Inn, Portsmouth’s oldest and longest operating hotel. Pet bowls and treats are available at the front desk, and there is a dog walk area with a waste station for pet relief on the property. For off-leash fun before bedtime, take a stroll to South Mill Pond Dog Park and meet the locals.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to New Hampshire preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code GRANITE to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

Have you and your dog been to New Hampshire together? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by BringFido/Carol.