According to a recent APPA survey, a resounding 70 percent of U.S. households own a pet. Of the 90.5 million homes with furry friends, approximately 78 percent of these American pet owners travel with their companions each year. With countless hiking trails perfect for stretching those two (or four) legs, creeks for pups to splash around in and lots of pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations, pet owners should look no further than the western North Carolina mountains of Jackson County. With a wide variety of pet-friendly outdoor activities and adventures, we are the perfect setting for exploring with your furry family member!

Before you venture out, remember to bring enough water for your pet. BringFido.com suggests that your dog is on a leash no longer than six feet for hikes. If you’re on the water, don’t forget your pet’s life jacket. And don’t forget supplies to clean up after them.

Pet-Friendly Hikes

Dog owners and pups will love exploring Jackson County’s portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway – one of America’s favorite national park sites. Pets are welcome along the Parkway as long as owners keep them on a leash and clean up after them. For a relaxing loop trail in the cool mountain breeze, take the Richland Balsam Nature Trail or stop by the overlook, which is the highest point on the Parkway. Although the path is steep with a total elevation gain of 700 feet, the hike is short at only 1.5 miles and is not overly strenuous.

Waterrock Knob Trail is another excellent stop on the Parkway for people and pets to “ruff” it up the mountain. Though it is a steep hike, the stunning panoramic views will take your breath away. On clear days, enjoy a view of up to 50 miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At 1.2 miles round trip, this hike is just rigorous enough to get your pup the right amount of exercise.

Panthertown Valley is a picturesque, outdoor playground with fun adventures for humans and dogs alike. Home to more than 30 miles of scenic hiking trails, over a dozen waterfalls and spectacular views, Panthertown is known as the “Yosemite of the East,” and once you visit, you’ll see why! Schoolhouse Falls is one of the most well-known waterfalls inside Panthertown Valley. Though not the tallest waterfall at 18 feet, it makes up for height in beauty. Pups love cooling off in the crystal clear waters of its pool. Another moderate hike is to the falls on Little Green Mountain Trail. To cool down, climb behind the falls for a unique and refreshing experience – just be mindful of slippery rocks.

One of the oldest mountains in the world, Whiteside Mountain (4,930 feet in elevation), is a moderate, two-mile loop that takes you to the highest vertical cliffs in the Eastern United States, making the peaks some of the most recognizable in the county. Whiteside Mountain towers over the valley below and is lined with incredible views along the way to its crest, creating the picture-perfect backdrop to capture stunning photographs. The Whiteside trail is clearly marked and easy to follow. Remember to bring a few dollars for parking.

Pet-Friendly Places

In Sylva, stop by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, which welcomes dogs year-round! The Visitor Center has a dedicated Pet Porch, complete with free pet treats, a water bowl and area information. Additionally, Fido can enjoy a pup-friendly water fountain on Sylva’s Main Street. On the other side of the Historic Jackson County Courthouse/Public Library is the Dog Park, a fenced-in corner of Mark Watson Park where your pups can enjoy a large off-leash area and make new friends.

If you’re looking for a scenic, riverside stroll, check out the walking trail along the Tuckasegee River Greenway. This two-mile, there-and-back, paved trail is a wonderful pet-friendly spot traversing the cool riverbanks of “The Tuck.”

If your pup really loves the water, consider a visit to Lake Glenville. With 26-miles of shoreline, seven islands and three gorgeous waterfalls, Lake Glenville is an ideal place to sit back and relax or enjoy an active day on the water. Head over to Signal Ridge Marina to enjoy a day of boating, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding with your dog in tow. Lake Glenville also features a hiking trail that leads to High Falls, the perfect way to cool down after a day of adventure.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants

After all of your exploring, you are sure to work up an appetite. Don’t worry – there are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants located throughout Jackson County!

City Lights Café has a large dog-friendly outdoor patio for pups to relax on while owners enjoy locally-sourced, organic dishes. Enjoy coffee, sweet treats or drink specials while your pup makes new furry friends.

Other pet-friendly dining options in the Sylva/Dillsboro area include Creekside Oyster House & Grill, Foragers Canteen, Haywood Smokehouse, South of Philly and  Front Street Takeout. You’ll find homemade doggie treats at Sylva’s White Moon Café. 

In the southern end of the county on the Cashiers plateau, stop by Cashiers Valley Smokehouse, On the Side BBQ, Slab Town Pizza, Chili Loco, Zookeeper Bistro, and Mica’s Restaurant, all of which have pet-friendly seating options. Check out all of our pet-friendly dining options here.

Pet-Friendly Breweries Along our Ale Trail

After you are both full of delicious food, head to a local craft brewery to end your day. Whiteside Brewing Co., Cashiers premiere brewery, has a large covered outdoor pavilion and porch that are dog friendly, as well as a large adjoining lawn to roam. There is also an extensive dining menu and rotating live music and events that make Whiteside a one-stop-shop for your food and craft beverage needs.

Innovation Brewing offers nearly three dozen hand-crafted ales on tap and has a large outdoor seating area featuring a covered patio and a beer garden-style set up with long picnic tables. Sylva’s Innovation Brewing is home to Cosmic Carryout’s famous burgers. Dillsboro’s more expansive Innovation Station has plenty of room for you and your best friend to sit by the river or on the outdoor covered deck and enjoy a brew.

In fact, all the locations along the Ale Trail offer pooch-friendly patios, water bowls and plenty of space for you and your furry friend to sit, stay, and relax.

Pet-Friendly Hotels and Vacation Rentals

To wind down your day, check in to a pet-friendly accommodation in Jackson County. You and the whole family will enjoy some of the best rates in the region. Our website has an entire page dedicated to helping pet owners find a place to stay, so you will find more than enough options that will fit you and your pet’s needs.