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12 Pet-Friendly Things To Do in the Spring

by | Feb 24, 2024 | local attractions, spring | 0 comments

Pet-Friendly Things To Do in the Spring

The Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains are majestic with the arrival of spring. It’s one of the best times to visit, watch the sunrise with a cup of coffee, and see the mist from the cool overnight temps burn off with the warming morning. Dogs love drinking from the cold water streams. Trails come to life with flowering rhododendrons and wildflowers. Nature really puts on a show and inspires us everyday to get out with our dog and explore. That’s why we rounded up our favorite pet-friendly things to do in the spring.

I thought fall would be my favorite time of year in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but spring is stealing my heart. When you look around, you can see the snow-capped peaks (especially at Wintergreen) gradually giving way to vibrant green valleys dotted with colorful blossoms, inviting hikers to explore and immerse themselves in the wonders of this magical season. The fireflies start to dance during the evenings in May. There’s a warm, gentle breeze whispering through our oak and poplar trees each afternoon. Spring offers so many fun pet-friendly things to do!

Local Events

The Indigo House is conveniently located on the Nelson 151, which is the destination for award-winning Virginia beer and wine, local food & artisans, mead tastings, and of course, lots of bucolic nature showing off. It also offers so many free events during spring. The breweries are always hosting live music on the weekends and most wineries allow you to pack a picnic lunch so you can grab a flight and explore the grapevines.

There are many pet-friendly things to do in the spring, but here are some of the local events we’re looking forward to:

 

 

pet friendly waterfall trails

Hikes and Trails

With interior design inspired by nature, relaxing hang-out spaces, and convenient access to Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Wintergreen, the Indigo House is a fun and fresh take on the traditional bed and breakfast experience for outdoorsy humans. Dogs always stay for free!

One of the best pet-friendly things to do in the spring is explore our local waterfalls. They are on full display as the mountain snow melts and rainfall collects. The water levels are also full enough for a swim (although, the water is very cold).

If you want to see a waterfall but can’t do a hike for it, let us know! Our friends over at Meili Mountain (about 30 mins away) offer day passes for private access to their heavily wooded, stunning waterfall and stream, about a 1/2 mile from the parking space. It’s a perfect, fully unplugged, rustic afternoon in nature.

Here’s a round-up of our favorite pet-friendly trails, perfect for a spring adventure:

  •  White Rock Falls — Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and hike this loop trail. Tip: The trail starts on the side opposite the parking lot.
  • Crabtree Falls — Perfect for people who love the stair climber. It’s the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. Tip: Bring $3 cash for parking.
  • Wintergreen trails — Hike like a local and explore the waterfalls at Wintergreen. There’s the short and easy Paul’s Creek Trail, which also serves as a natural waterslide, or the out-and-back Lower Shamokin Falls. These are both free, about two miles long, and less than 15 minutes away from the Indigo!
  • Doyles River Falls — Make your way into Shenandoah National Park (there is an entrance fee) and cruise down Skyline Drive to this long and beautiful trail.
  • Sugar Hollow Reservoir — Drive through Crozet for two scenic Moormans River trails (and a swimming hole).

Spring is a wonderful time to stay at the Indigo House! Which of the 12 pet-friendly activities are you excited to do?

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