Hi friends, it’s me, Luke! 👋 I’m here to sniff out all the best spots in Northern New Hampshire where dogs like me can run, play, hike, and even camp under the stars. Fall up here is my absolute favorite—crunchy leaves, cool mountain breezes, and so many new smells to explore. If you’re looking for the paw-fect trip with your pup, check out my favorite tail-wagging adventures.
🐾 Franconia Notch State Park
This place is like a giant doggy playground! The Basin Trail is easy for short legs (and tired paws) and has the coolest water pools to splash around in. Don’t forget Echo Lake—on chilly mornings you can see fog rolling over the water while you and your pup breathe in that crisp mountain air.
Luke’s tip: Bring extra treats for when your pup poses by the waterfalls. (Trust me, they’ll earn them!)
🐾 Crawford Notch State Park
Imagine golden leaves raining down while you hike together—yep, that’s Crawford Notch in the fall. The Arethusa Falls Trail is one of my favorites. There are plenty of streams along the way where dogs can stop for a drink or a splash.
Luke’s tip: The ride through the Notch is almost as good as the walk. Stick your head out the window—you won’t regret it!
🐾 Camping in the White Mountain National Forest
If you’re like me, nothing beats snoozing by the fire after a day of adventures. Camping in the forest means more sniffs, more trails, and more snuggles.
Here are a few dog-approved campgrounds:
- Dry River Campground – Nestled right in Crawford Notch. Tons of trails and new scents.
- Hancock Campground – Right along the Kancamagus Highway (aka “the Kanc”). Perfect for leaf-peeping pups.
- Dolly Copp Campground – Big open sites, streams to sniff, and plenty of space to nap.
- Lost River Valley Campground – Even has pet-friendly cabins if your human likes four walls better than a tent.
Luke’s tip: Don’t let your humans leave food out—bears think snacks are for them too. Woof! 🐻
🐾 The Kancamagus Highway (“The Kanc”)
Oh boy, this drive is a dog’s dream. 34 miles of winding road through the White Mountain National Forest—trees everywhere, mountains in the distance, and more photo-ops than you can shake a stick at.
Best stops to stretch paws:
- Sabbaday Falls – Easy trail with waterfalls.
- Rocky Gorge – Great for photos (but keep pups leashed—it’s steep!).
- Sugar Hill Overlook – Perfect for showing off your best side profile.
Luke’s tip: Go early in the morning before the cars line up, and you’ll have the best spots (and the freshest sniffs) all to yourself.
🐾 Moose Brook State Park
If your pup prefers a quieter space, this park is a hidden gem. Cozy trails, campsites for cuddling by the fire, and way fewer crowds. It’s like a secret dog retreat.
🐾 Shop ’Til You Drop (For Treats!)
- Tailswag (Littleton, NH) – Sweaters, treats, and even a pup-cup bar.
- Fypo (North Conway, NH) – Stock up on toys and trail snacks before your next adventure.
Luke’s tip: Ask if they’ve got something squeaky—I promise you won’t regret it. Both shops offer private shopping sessions for reactive and shy pups, call to book.
🐾 Sip & Stay
Because humans need treats too!
- Rek-Lis Brewing (Bethlehem, NH) – Outdoor patio that welcomes dogs (more belly rubs for me).
- Moat Mountain Smokehouse & Brewing (North Conway, NH) – BBQ smells + fall beers = happy humans.
When it’s time to sleep, you’ll find plenty of pet-friendly cabins, inns, and Airbnbs so no one gets left behind.
🐾 Events Where You Can Find Kudo the Dog!
- Bark in the Park – North Conway (Sept 20)
- Littleton Art Show – Littleton (Sept 27)
- Dashtoberfest – Littleton (Oct 4)
Come say hi—I’ll be the one wagging my tail the fastest!
Final Woof 🐾
Northern New Hampshire in the fall is made for dogs. From camping under a starry sky to chasing leaves on the Kanc, there’s no better time to explore. So grab the leash, pack those treats, and get ready to make some paws-itively amazing memories.
See you on the trail,
🐾 Luke
