Happy fall, y’all! The start of autumn brings crispness in the air, pumpkin pies, cozy sweaters, and, of course, the colors of the changing fall leaves. That means it’s the perfect time to pack a picnic lunch, a cozy blanket, and your favorite four-legged friend to go leaf peeping. 

What is leaf peeping? Leaf peeping is exactly as it sounds: It’s traveling with the goal of viewing the fall foliage in areas where leaves change colors. And who better to bring with you on a leaf peeping adventure than your dog? Taking your furry friend with you to experience the beautiful fall leaves is an excellent way to bond while providing a much-needed escape for both you and your pup!

Here are four dog-friendly leaf peeping destinations to enjoy the fall leaves with your dog:

Massachusetts: Mount Greylock State Reservation

"Mount Greylock Foliage" by Brian Gudzevich is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

At 3,491 feet,  the top of Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts and a must-see fall foliage destination with breathtaking views of the Berkshires and beyond. Check out one of the scenic and dog-friendly trails to enjoy fall leaves with your favorite furry friend. The reservation offers 70 miles of designated trails for hiking and mountain biking. 

If you plan on staying overnight, book a room at The Old Inn On The Green, which has pet-friendly accommodations. Treats and pet bowls are offered at the front desk and there is a convenient and spacious grassy area on the property, as well. Just make sure to call ahead prior to booking to verify the availability of a pet-friendly room.

Vermont: Dog Mountain

"Dog Chapel" by Alan Sandercock is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Fall leaves in Vermont are so beautiful that people from around the world flock to see them. Vermont explodes with vibrant color as the leaves turn. During the fall months, Vermont is alive with bursting reds, yellows, and oranges. 

One must-see destination in Vermont to visit with your furry friend is Dog Mountain. Dogs are welcome with their parents to visit Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The grounds are always open to dogs and their humans. Leashes are optional and pups are free to run, play, swim, and meet other four-legged friends. The dog ponds and obstacle course are dog favorites. 

Dogs are not only welcome at Dog Mountain, they are cherished. Located on the spacious and glorious land are 400 acres for hiking, and the famous Dog Chapel. Dog Chapel was introduced to the world as a way to honor our furry friends. In the 20 years since its inception, the serene Dog Chapel has become a “unique and moving physical embodiment” of the undying love dogs have to give.

Texas: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

"Guadalupe Mountains National Park" by Visit El Paso is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The fall leaves typically change colors in Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas starting in mid-October and continuing through mid-November. Come autumn, bright splashes of color can be seen at this picturesque destination in west Texas. 

Leashed pets are allowed in Guadalupe Mountains National Park in areas accessed by vehicles, including picnic areas and campgrounds. They must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and attended to at all times. 

Colorado: Golden Gate Canyon State Park

"Quiet Fall Path" by Ryan-o is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Just 30 miles from Denver, the 12,000-acre Golden Gate Canyon State Park contains miles and miles of scenic hiking trails. Most importantly, Golden Gate Canyon Park is very dog-friendly, welcoming leashed pups to the campgrounds and all 12 hiking trails.

Elevations in the park range from 7,500-10,400 feet, with fall colors traditionally beginning at the end of September and running throughout October.

Tips For Leaf Peeping With Your Dog

Before you hit the road and enjoy the fall leaves with your dog, there are a few precautions you’ll want to take to make sure both you and your four-legged pal are safe.

Pack plenty of water and treats. Treats can ensure car rides and hikes are a positive experience and that good behavior is both encouraged and rewarded. It’s also always important to make sure your pup stays hydrated along the journey and at the destination. Bring along a packable and collapsible bowl that will work for storing food and water. Collapsible food and water bowls are portable, lightweight, easy to store, and can even come with hooks to hang off your backpack. Remember your furry pal will need extra food and water on those long and tough hiking trails. 

Though not all destinations you visit may require you to leash your dog, it’s important you keep your dog close to you at all times. Try not to leave your furry friend unsupervised as there can be wild animals in the area as well as other unpredictable situations that could arise. 

Experiencing the fall leaves with your dog is a great way to escape and bond with your best friend. Nothing beats spending time with your pal in the great outdoors.

With a little preparation, you and your dog will be all set to enjoy the leaf peeping adventure of a lifetime!