Dog-Friendly High Country of North Carolina (Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock)
Have you been wondering about what to do in the dog friendly High Country of North Carolina?
Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock—collectively known as the High Country—offer a blend of natural beauty, charming small towns, and a welcoming vibe that’s hard to beat. Explore miles of scenic trails, pet-friendly accommodations, and plenty of outdoor spaces where your pup can roam free. To make sure you get the best recommendations, we teamed up with local Kathy Law to get her best tips for visiting dog friendly High Country in North Carolina.
Your Guide: Kathy Law
Kathy and two of her babies
Lola and Zoey
Having four pups of her own, Kathy knows what dogs and their owners are looking for around Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock!
Looking for a dog friendly place for your stay in the High Country?
Check out Lola’s Lookout Lodge
Featured Accommodation: Lola’s Lookout Lodge
Lola’s Lookout Lodge: Beautiful cabin In the shadow of Grandfather Mountain and Sugar Mountain! Sleeps 12, with the most perfect wrap-around porch! Family-Friendly, Pet-Friendly with a small dog run available right outside the downstairs door! Small fenced-in pet-run area, no size or breed restrictions, and up to 2 dogs allowed.
Top Activities for Dogs and Their Owners in Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock
Beech Mountain Bark Park
The Beech Mountain Bark Park is a must-visit for any dog owner. This fenced-in, off-leash dog park provides a safe and clean environment where well-behaved dogs can exercise and play without endangering or annoying people, property, or wildlife. The park is a beautiful and well-maintained space open to all dog lovers and friends willing to uphold the park’s rules and restrictions. Built and maintained as a community project, the park meets the needs of dog-owners and non-dog owners alike, making it a welcoming spot for everyone.
Banner Elk Town Park – Tate-Evans Park
Tate-Evans Park in Banner Elk is an excellent spot for a day out with your dog. The park features a walking trail perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pup. It also has two playground areas, one for smaller children and another, Fort VonCanon, for more active play. For a full day of fun, you can take advantage of the wading pools, a volleyball court, picnic tables, and a covered picnic shelter. Restrooms are available from April through September, adding convenience to your visit.
Tate-Evans Park is a hub of community activity, hosting the Summer Concert Series each Thursday night starting in June, as well as festive events like the Fourth of July celebrations, the annual campfire gathering (a final farewell to summer), the Halloween “Spook-tacular,” and the Christmas Tree Lighting and Caroling. It’s also a popular location for birthday parties, reunions, and even weddings.
Bee Happy Farmers Market
The Bee Happy Farmers Market in Banner Elk is a delightful experience for both you and your dog. Held on the first Friday of the month from June through October, this dog-friendly market even has a Doggie Hospitality Tent to ensure your furry friend feels as welcome as you do. With vendors selling dog-related products, it’s a fantastic opportunity to pick up a new treat or toy while you enjoy browsing fresh local produce and handmade goods.
Dog Friendly Outdoor Activities in the High Country
Grandfather Vineyard and Winery
Grandfather Vineyard and Winery is a dog-friendly spot where you and your pup can relax after a day of adventure. Set against the stunning backdrop of the High Country, this family-owned winery welcomes well-behaved dogs to join their owners in the outdoor seating areas. Here, you can enjoy a tasting of locally produced wines while listening to live music and sampling from a visiting food truck.
Otter Falls
Located near beautiful Banner Elk, Otter Falls is a relatively new hiking trail in the Seven Devils mountain area that offers a 1.2-mile round-trip hike for you and your dog. This trail is rated as strenuous, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge and some exercise. As you navigate the trail through the wooded landscape, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of Otter Falls.
Elk River Falls
For a shorter, but equally rewarding outing, Elk River Falls is a hidden gem located about 25-30 minutes from Seven Devils. The trail to the waterfall is a brief 0.4-mile hike, making it an easy option for dogs of all sizes and fitness levels.
Other Activities and Recommendations
In addition to the popular dog-friendly spots, there are several more activities and experiences in the High Country of North Carolina that you and your dog can enjoy together. These destinations provide a blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxation that’s perfect for travelers with dogs.
Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain offers a wide range of activities that make it a fantastic destination for both you and your pup. With its big views and scenic drives, this iconic mountain has much to explore. You can enjoy a picnic with your dog by your side or take on one of the various hiking trails that offer different levels of difficulty. There are also fun family events and educational experiences available throughout the year.
Seven Devils’ Upcoming Park
Exciting news for dog owners—Seven Devils is adding a new park in 2025, and it will include a dedicated dog park! This new addition will feature a walking trail and a playground (already in place) that caters to both kids and adults. The park will also host summer concerts, providing a relaxed atmosphere for both people and pets. With a beautiful view of Grandfather Mountain as its backdrop, the new park in Seven Devils is set to become a wonderful spot for those traveling with their dogs.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock
When exploring the dog-friendly High Country of NC, it’s nice to know there are great places where both you and your pup can enjoy a meal. Here are some top spots in Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock with dog-friendly patios.
Booneshine Brewing Company – Boone, NC
Booneshine Brewing Company in Boone is a restaurant and brewery that offers plenty of outdoor seating, making it a great place to visit with your dog. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Booneshine frequently has food trucks and offers a wide variety of beers on tap. Booneshine Brewing Company
Mountain Dog Coffee
Mountain Dog Coffee is a unique blend of a coffee shop and a dog park. This spot provides a chance to grab a cup of coffee while your dog enjoys some off-leash time. Mountain Dog Coffee
Town Tavern of Banner Elk
The Town Tavern of Banner Elk is NC’s premier destination dining and sports bar venue, known for its state-of-the-art audio/visual experience for entertainment viewing. The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy a meal or drink with your furry friend. The staff is known for their love of dogs, and their Facebook page often features photos of the pups that visit. Town Tavern of Banner Elk
Best Dog-Friendly Places to Stay in the High Country of North Carolina
Finding the perfect place to stay with your dog can make all the difference when exploring the dog friendly High Country of North Carolina. Kathy recommends the following dog friendly accommodations near Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock.
Featured Recommendation: Lola’s Lookout Lodge
🛌 Lola’s Lookout Lodge
Beautiful cabin, sleeps 12, with the most perfect wrap-around porch! Family-Friendly, Pet-Friendly with a small dog run available right outside the downstairs door! 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths, hot tub, fire pit, pool table, fireplace, fast WI-FI, 2 King Beds, 1 Queen Bed, 4 Bunk Beds in the High Country of Seven Devils, North Carolina!
Conveniently located between the towns of Banner Elk and Boone—in the shadow of Grandfather Mountain and Sugar Mountain! Small fenced-in pet-run area, no size or breed restrictions, and up to 2 dogs allowed.
🛌 The Pup Tent
The ultimate dog-friendly glamping retreat in the NC mountains. “The Pup Tent” offers a unique outdoor experience without ‘ruffing it.’ This tranquil glamping spot is nestled in a private creekside meadow within WILDHAVEN, a farm and forest restoration project located right across from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Guests can enjoy quick access to Linville Falls, Banner Elk, Grandfather Mountain, and are just a short drive away from Blowing Rock and Boone. It’s the perfect NC Blue Ridge mountain escape for travelers and their pups.
Considerations for traveling to the High Country with your dog
When planning a trip with your dog to Beech, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock in the High Country of North Carolina, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Asheville is about 1.5 hours drive and Charlotte is around 2.5 drive. This area is known for its scenic drives and mountainous terrain, so be prepared for winding roads. The weather in the High Country can change quickly, especially in higher elevations, so it is a good idea to be prepared for changing conditions.
Final Thoughts: Dog Friendly High Country of North Carolina
If you’re looking for a place where you and your dog can truly feel at home, the High Country of North Carolina—Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock—is hard to beat. The rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, cool streams, and friendly small towns create a special atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else. There’s a good mix here—whether it’s a morning hike to Otter Falls, a relaxed afternoon at the Beech Mountain Bark Park, or staying in a dog friendly spot like Lola’s Lookout Lodge and simply enjoying the view.
