Vacationing alone may make for a great experience, but every moment becomes a whole lot sweeter and more precious when you have beloved companions to accompany you. Traveling with those you love and hold close to your heart is an experience for the books, and that goes beyond just friends and family. Your pets are one of your most cherished friends—always there to offer you comfort and love when you need it the most. Hence, it is quite normal for most pet owners to feel a gap in their hearts when they leave their pets behind during a trip away. If you do, too, maybe it is time to take your pet with you on your next vacation.
Enjoying a vacation with your pet can make your time all the more exciting and adventurous, but, of course, the place should be pet-friendly enough to make the time spent memorable for everyone. Pigeon Forge, one of the most popular tourist spots in Tennessee, makes for one of the best cities for your pet-friendly vacation. If you are planning a trip to Pigeon Forge for your vacation, here are some pet-friendly activities you can do while you are there.
1. Relax at Pet-Friendly Accommodations
When traveling with your pets, there is no bigger concern than finding lodgings where they can be comfortable and with you at all times. Luckily enough, Pigeon Forge is just the right place to find the perfect and comfortable accommodations for you and your pets. There are many cozy pet friendly cabins in Pigeon Forge that can ensure you have the best retreat with your furry friend throughout your stay. Not only are these cabins comfortable, but some also have pools and other open areas where your pet can play.
2. Hike in the Great Smoky National Park
Going to the Smokies and not planning a hike is surely a missed opportunity. With all the best views the mountains have to offer, hiking is an experience that needs to make it to your itinerary. And lucky for you, you can also enjoy a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains with your pets!
With a number of dog-friendly trails in the Great Smoky Mountains, all dog owners have the option of taking their dogs along to gorgeous sights.
- The 3.9-mile long Gatlinburg Trail starts from the Sugarlands Visitor Center and takes its visitors on a sublime walk offering sights of the Little Pigeon River and surrounding forests.
- One of the other trails, the 1.5-mile Oconaluftee River Trail on the North Caroline part of the park, offers equally beautiful views to all hikers.
But keep in mind: pet-friendly as it may be, all pet owner hikers need to keep their dogs leashed and be responsible for any dog waste along the way.
3. Go to The Island
If you haven’t heard of The Island in Pigeon Forge, one of the first things you need to know is that it is a must-go place for any visitor. With the vast array of shops, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment, you cannot miss this place. And the best part about it? It has many pet-friendly areas.
You must note, however:
- Dogs are not allowed on all parts of The Island
- There are some pet-friendly options within the complex.
- You will find many shops and restaurants that will allow your furry companion to accompany you.
- Furthermore, there are many walkways, parks, and open areas on the Island where you can walk your dog, play fetch, or just enjoy the fresh air together.
4. Ride on the Cades Cove Loop Road
This one is for all the dog owners who love to take their pets along on car rides. If your furry companion is one of those dogs that love to stick their head out the window and feel the breeze against their face, taking a scenic drive on the Cades Cove can be one of the most memorable experiences for your vacation, especially if you hit the road when the sun’s rising or setting.
With all the best views right outside the window, you and your dog can sightsee from behind the wheel. Also, the scenic routes on the loop drive can be the perfect backdrop for your pictures with your dog- and we all know how important pictures are to commemorate precious vacation moments.
5. Visit the Sevierville PetSafe Unleashed Dog Park
If you and your dog are getting tired of the places that only allow leashed dogs, this is one of the places you can let go of the harnesses and have the time of your life with your dog. Located in the heart of the city of Sevierville, Petsafe Unleashed Dog Park is the place for all dogs to have fun.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- The park offers ample space for dogs to play around and socialize with other dogs, which means they can have their own adventure with their own kind.
- There is a separate playing space for small and large breeds, so you don’t have to worry about unforeseen incidents.
- Furthermore, the park also offers agility equipment so your dog can jump around in excitement and woof to their heart’s desire.
Conclusion
Your pet deserves some time out with you, away from their usual familiar space. However, while the idea of traveling with your pets can be exciting, it is always best to judge whether your pet is in a condition to travel.
Take your pet for a medical checkup before you travel to ensure they are healthy for the trip. In addition to that, take your pet with you only if you are sure they can handle it well when you’re in unfamiliar spaces and around unknown people. Some pets can get cranky and hard to manage if taken away from their comfort space. If that isn’t a problem for your pet, pack your bags, leash up your pup, and embark on a journey to Pigeon Forge.
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