If you and your pup love exploring the great outdoors, Mooresville and its surrounding areas offer some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in North Carolina. From scenic lakefront strolls to shaded forest paths, these trails provide the perfect opportunity for you and your furry companion to get some fresh air, exercise, and adventure. Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails near Mooresville that welcome dogs!
1. Lake Norman State Park
Location: 759 State Park Rd, Troutman, NC 28166 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Lake Norman State Park is one of the best outdoor destinations near Mooresville. It offers a variety of dog-friendly trails, including the Lake Shore Trail, which provides beautiful water views, shaded paths, and plenty of places for your pup to stop and sniff. Dogs must be leashed at all times, but they will love the fresh lake breeze and peaceful surroundings.
2. Mazeppa Park Trail
Location: 645 Mazeppa Rd, Mooresville, NC 28115 Difficulty: Easy Mazeppa Park features a scenic, well-maintained trail that loops around the park, making it a great spot for a casual walk with your dog. This hidden gem is less crowded than other parks in the area, giving your pup more space to explore and enjoy nature.
3. Stumpy Creek Park Trails
Location: 160 Stumpy Creek Rd, Mooresville, NC 28117 Difficulty: Easy to ModerateStumpy Creek Park offers multiple trails with a mix of open fields and shaded forest paths. The trails are wide and dog-friendly, making them perfect for a peaceful hike with your pup. While there’s no dedicated off-leash area, your leashed dog will enjoy the variety of scents and sights along the way.
4. Davidson Greenway & Fisher Farm Park
Location: 21215 Shearer Rd, Davidson, NC 28036 Difficulty: EasyJust a short drive from Mooresville, the Davidson Greenway and Fisher Farm Park offer an excellent mix of open meadows, wooded paths, and paved walkways. This dog-friendly hiking area is great for all skill levels, and it provides a beautiful, quiet setting for a long walk with your pup.
5. Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area
Location: 3451 Rocky Face Church Rd, Hiddenite, NC 28636 Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult For those looking for a more challenging adventure, Rocky Face Mountain is an excellent option. The trails feature rugged terrain and rewarding scenic overlooks. Dogs are welcome, but this hike is best suited for active pups who can handle inclines and rocky paths.
6. Bigleaf Slopes Park
Location: 2590 Salisbury Hwy, Statesville, NC 28677 Difficulty: Moderate Bigleaf Slopes Park offers beautiful wooded trails with rolling hills and a peaceful atmosphere. This hidden gem is a great spot for leashed dogs who enjoy a moderate workout while exploring the natural beauty of North Carolina.
7. Latta Nature Preserve
Location: 5226 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate A short drive from Mooresville, Latta Nature Preserve is one of the best hiking destinations for dog owners. With multiple trails winding through forests, fields, and lakeside paths, this preserve is perfect for a full day of outdoor fun with your pup.
8. Fort Dobbs Historic Site Trails
Location: 438 Fort Dobbs Rd, Statesville, NC 28625 Difficulty: Easy If you’re looking for a mix of history and nature, Fort Dobbs Historic Site offers short, dog-friendly trails that weave through wooded areas and historic landmarks. It’s a great spot for a relaxed, educational hike with your four-legged friend.
Tips for Hiking with Your Dog in Mooresville
Bring Water: Always carry enough water for both you and your pup, especially on warm days.
Keep Your Dog Leashed: Most trails require dogs to be on a leash to protect wildlife and other hikers.
Check the Weather: Avoid hiking during extreme heat or heavy rain for your dog’s safety.
Watch for Wildlife: North Carolina trails can have deer, snakes, and other wildlife, so keep an eye on your pup.
Pack Waste Bags: Always clean up after your dog to help keep trails beautiful and pet-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Mooresville and the surrounding areas offer an abundance of dog-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful lakeside stroll or a rugged mountain climb, these trails provide the perfect setting to explore North Carolina’s natural beauty with your pup. Looking to capture the moment? Book a pet photography session to commemorate your hiking adventures with stunning professional photos!