Fall Fun Awaits: Pet-Friendly Trails, Trips & Tips!
The warm days are lingering, but Fall is in the air! As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to plan autumn adventures. This newsletter is your guide to Fall fun with your pet—near and far—and includes tips to keep them safe, happy, and healthy as the season changes. Let’s make this seasonal transition fun for both pets and people alike!
Where To Wander As The Weather Cools
Check out our favorite local trails, beaches, and parks to explore with your furry friend this fall.
Plymouth Picks:
Ellisville Harbor State Park: Trails through meadows and red pines with dog-friendly beach access starting Sept. 15.
Plymouth Long Beach & White Horse Beach: Leashed dogs allowed in designated areas after Sept. 30.
Myles Standish State Forest (Plymouth & Carver): Five hiking loops, camping, and fall foliage views.
Cedarville Dog Park (Plymouth): Off-leash fun with separate areas for big and small dogs—great for playdates!
Boneyard Dog Park (Kingston): Spacious and social, with plenty of room for dogs of all sizes to explore.
Cape Cod Canal: Flat, scenic, and great for warm late-summer walks.
Beyond Plymouth: New England Day Trips & Getaways
Ready for a road trip? Whether it’s a quick drive, a ferry ride, or a weekend adventure, here are some top dog-friendly destinations:
Quick Trips (up to ~2 hours from Plymouth)
Fort Adams State Park (Newport, RI): Historic fort with seaside trails, picnic lawns, and leashed-dog-friendly paths.
World’s End (Hingham, MA): Rolling trails, harbor views, and beautiful fall foliage.
Halibut Point State Park (Rockport, MA): Coastal trails with stunning ocean vistas.
Fort Foster Park (Kittery Point, ME): Trails and picnic areas with a coastal Maine feel.
Weekend Adventures
Portland Head Light & Fort Williams Park (Cape Elizabeth, ME): Iconic lighthouse with walking paths and picnic areas.
Acadia National Park (ME): Over 100 miles of dog-friendly trails and carriage roads with breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery.
Franconia Notch State Park (NH): Mountain views and popular trails like Artist Bluff.
Hammonasset Beach State Park (CT): Connecticut’s largest shoreline park with designated dog-friendly areas.
Island Escapes
Nantucket (MA): Quaint streets, scenic bluffs, and dog-friendly patios. Perfect after the summer crowds thin.
Martha’s Vineyard (MA): Take a short ferry ride and enjoy beaches, trails, and charming towns with your leashed pup.
Pro Tip: Bring water, a leash, and check local seasonal rules. Ferry rides to the islands are generally dog-friendly—just confirm the policies with each line.
Top 5 Fall Pet Safety Tips
Make the most of fall adventures while keeping your furry friend healthy and safe.
Tick & Flea Check: Fall is peak for ticks in leafy areas; continue protection year-round.
Reflective Gear for Walks: Shorter days and low light require visibility for safety.
Stay Hydrated: Even cooler fall days can be dehydrating—bring water for longer walks and hikes.
ID & Microchips: Make sure your dog’s collar, tags, and microchip info are up to date in case they get lost.
Watch Seasonal Hazards: Leaves, acorns, mushrooms, and antifreeze can be toxic if ingested.
Helping Local Pets This Fall
Whether you’re sticking close to home or heading out on fall adventures, your support helps pets in our community stay safe, warm, and cared for. Every donation or volunteer effort supports our Pet Food Pantries and Veterinary Medical Assistance Program—helping local pets in need, no matter the season.
