Photo by Beth Price-Williams
Sunny days feel a lot different in the summer than in other seasons. The summer sun beating down on us can get downright uncomfortable, making it tough for us, and our pets, to get outdoors and explore on a dog-friendly hike. We’re pretty fortunate, though, because we have plenty of dog-friendly shaded hikes in Pennsylvania that allow us to reconnect with nature while staying cool. Even better? These picturesque trails promise natural beauty in all four seasons.
1. Buttermilk Falls Trail – New Florence
Hidden at the end of a quiet country road, Buttermilk Falls Natural Area has a small parking lot, bathrooms, and a few picnic tables near the entrance to the half-mile Buttermilk Falls Trail. (If you’ve never been to the natural area, you might want to add the address to your GPS.)
The predominately-shaded trail is mostly paved, making it easy to walk with a stroller. However, the first viewing platform, which offers a sensational aerial view of the waterfall, has several steps, and to get to the base of the waterfall, you must go down several flights of wooden stairs.
As you walk along the dog-friendly trail in New Florence, keep an eye out for wooden posts that, when you open each, reveals a quote from Mister Rogers. The natural area, which once belonged to Mister Rogers’ grandfather, is home to three waterfalls. As you get closer to the stairs to Buttermilk Falls, look to your left, and you’ll see two smaller cascades.
Cross over the Eclipse Bridge and take the stairs down to Buttermilk Falls. If you and your pup are up for getting a bit wet, go behind the waterfall for a one-of-a-kind view.
Address: 570 Valley Brook Rd, New Florence, PA 15944
2. Longfellow Trail – Cooksburg
Marvel at the majestic old growth trees, some dating back 400 years and standing nearly 200 feet tall, along the Longfellow Trail in the Forest Cathedral Natural Area at Cook Forest State Park. Pick up the dog-friendly trail near the Cooksburg Log Cabin Educational Center, where you’ll find bathrooms, benches, and picnic tables.
Longfellow Trail snags a moderate rating due to its rocky terrain and roots, so sturdy footwear is a must. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be treated to spectacular scenery, including towering trees, picturesque footbridges, quiet streams, moss-covered rocks, and maybe even a hidden waterfall. Keep an eye on the forest floor, too, where lizards often scurry and mushrooms grow.
While the shaded path is beautiful in the warmer months, plan to hike it again after a fresh snowfall.
Address: Cook Forest State Park, 100 PA-36 Cooksburg, PA 16217
3. Shades of Death Trail – White Haven
Prepare for a bit of a challenge on the moderately rated Shades of Death Trail, a dog-friendly path that winds through Hickory Run State Park. If you and your pup are up for navigating rocky terrain and some tree roots, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery. Wander past cascading waterfalls, wooden footbridges, chiseled rocks, stone stairs, and ruins of dams and logging mills. Take a few minutes to relax by, and maybe take a few photos of, the tranquil stream.
The one-mile Shades of Death Trail starts near the Visitor Center, where you’ll find bathrooms, water, and benches. Slip on sturdy shoes, due to the rocky spots, and make sure your dog is on a leash.
If you’ve got time after hiking Shades of Death Trail, consider following the Boulder Field Trail, a 3.5 out-and-back hike that scores a moderate rating and features plenty of shade. The trail’s highlight is, arguably, Boulder Field, a national natural landmark.
Address: Hickory Run State Park, 3 Family Camp Rd, White Haven, PA 18661
4. Sunken Garden Trail – Portersville
Set off on a dog-friendly adventure along the Sunken Garden Trail, a wooded path at Moraine State Park that features views of Lake Arthur and Pleasant Valley Beach. While the trail, which meanders through the woods, is predominately shaded, it does have some sections with few trees, so bring enough water for both you and your dog, especially on particularly warm days.
Parking and bathrooms are available near the trailhead that features three loops: the short loop (1.9 miles), the mid loop (2.4 miles), and the long loop (3.6 miles). Wear sturdy shoes, although the trail is doable in flip flops (just prepare for muddy spots if it has recently rained).
Take your time, if you can, and enjoy the scenic views – the blue water of Lake Arthur, seagulls flying in the distance, dragonflies and butterflies, and wooden footbridges. In the winter, the dog-friendly trail is also popular for cross-country skiing.
Address: Moraine State Park, 225 Pleasant Valley Rd, Portersville, PA 16051
5. Flourtown Nature Trail – Fort Washington
Embark on a short and sweet hike on the Flourtown Nature Trail, a dog-friendly loop trail that clocks in at less than a mile. While the trail earns an easy rating and is predominately flat, it may pose a few challenges. Bring your phone along as the trail markers may be unclear, and you might have to deal with fallen trees as you hike.
Enjoy the shade of the trees, especially on those hot, sun-soaked days, along most of the trail that will lead you past Wissahickon Creek, and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, geese, and even hawks.
Address: Fort Washington State Park, 500 S Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, PA 19034
6. Struble Trail – Downingtown
Escape the sun along the tree-lined Struble Trail, a dog-friendly path that wanders along the east branch of Brandywine Creek. The out-and-back trail tallies 5.2 miles, making it easy to stop and turn around if you’re short on time. Because of its easy rating and scenic views, the trail can get busy at times, so be prepared to run into others, including walkers, hikers, and bikers. You might even hear some traffic noise from the nearby roads.
Paved and flat, the picturesque path passes colorful wildflowers, the creek, and trees. If you’re not in a hurry, pack a picnic for a leisurely meal at one of the picnic tables that sit along the trail. Bring plenty of water for you and your pup, too.
Pick up the Struble Trail at either end, parking at the lot at Dolan Mill or Shelmire Road.
Address: Struble Trail, Downingtown, PA 19335
Before You Go
Before you set off on a dog-friendly hike, make sure you have your pup’s leash, plenty of water for both of you, and poop bags. (Cleaning up after your dog will help ensure that trails continue to be dog-friendly.) Follow the principle: Pack it in, pack it out. Whatever you take on your hike, bring back out with you.
Since ticks are so common in Pennsylvania, thoroughly check your pup after you finish your hike.
What are your favorite dog-friendly shaded trails in Pennsylvania? Head over to the Pet-Friendly PA Facebook page and let us know! Ready to explore more trails? Check out these 10 easy dog-friendly trails in Pennsylvania.
