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Top Trails for Hiking With Small Dogs in the Adirondacks

By Erin Nudi

Exploring the great outdoors with your pint-sized pup? The Adirondack Mountains offer a variety of scenic, manageable trails that are perfect for hiking with small dogs in the Adirondacks! See our top picks and tips below.

woman with small dog at summit

Cobble Lookout - 2.4 to 2.6 miles roundrip

Why it's great for small dogs: Short, easy ascent on a well-marked, fairly wide trail with gentle climbs.

Tip: Bring a lightweight microfleece or blanket to lounge on rocky ledges.

Black Mountain - 6.7 miles roundtrip

Why it’s great for small dogs: Gentle terrain with occasional challenging spots, includes ponds for dog swimming breaks.

Tip: Bring a harness or extra support for uneven sections.

Blue Mountain - about 6 miles roundtrip

Why it’s great for small dogs: Generally moderate and well-traveled.

Tip: Watch for steeper scrambles near the summit. Short carrying breaks may be needed.

Cranberry Lake - varied distance loops

Why it’s great for small dogs: Network of easy foot trails and loops around ponds, plenty of flexible options.

Tip: Use a long lead so your furry friend can explore safely near water.

Stewart’s Ledge - 1.4 miles roundtrip

Why it’s great for small dogs: Short, gently sloped hike with great views of Lake George and surrounding mountains, easy on little legs, low on elevation

Tip: Bring a blanket or towel if you plan to stop at the ledge for a break, the rocky surface can be uncomfortable for small dogs to sit on.

Roaring Brook Falls - about 0.3 miles to the base

Why it’s great for small dogs: Extremely short and flat trail with a waterfall view - great for very young or older small dogs

Tip: Keep dogs leashed near the base - while the trail is easy, the are anear the falls can be slippery with wet leaves.

See Our Must-Bring Doggie Hiking Items

Please note, if bringing bug repellent, make it dog-friendly - they cannot handle insect repellent with DEET.

View tips on hiking with dogs >>

Learn about the ADK-9 hiking challenge >>

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woman in hat poses in front water
About the Author: Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker living in Queensbury. When she's not perusing books at Northshire, Owl Pen Books, or Beldame Books, you can find her at a local event or park with her family.
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