/ Local Pet Guide
Highlands, North Carolina is one of the most dog-friendly mountain towns in the Southeast — with scenic hiking trails, waterfall walks, welcoming restaurant patios, and pet-friendly places to stay.
“Highlands is one of the few mountain towns where bringing your dog genuinely improves the experience.”
Nestled at 4,118 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Highlands, NC is a naturally dog-friendly destination. The combination of cool mountain air, forested trails, cascading waterfalls, and a welcoming local culture makes it an ideal place to travel with a dog.
This guide highlights some of the best dog-friendly places to stay and things to do in Highlands, NC — including Glen Falls Luxury Cabin in Highlands, NC, a top-rated pet-friendly stay located near hiking trails and waterfalls.
/ Off-Leash Space
A well-maintained, fenced dog park giving dogs a safe and comfortable space to run off-leash and socialize. A convenient stop for guests staying in the area who want to give their dogs some open space to stretch out and play.
/ Leash Required
The Highlands area is home to some of the most beautiful trail systems in the Southern Appalachians. All of the trails below welcome leashed dogs and offer memorable scenery for both people and pets. Dog-friendly things to do in Highlands NC start right here.
One of the most iconic hikes in the Highlands area, Whiteside Mountain offers sweeping views from exposed granite cliffs and a well-maintained loop trail through mixed forest. A rewarding outing for dogs that enjoy varied terrain — leash required throughout.
A beautiful, forested trail leading to a series of cascading waterfalls along Glen Falls Creek. The path winds through rhododendron tunnels and alongside the creek, making it one of the most scenic and dog-friendly things to do in Highlands NC. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
A short but rewarding climb just outside of downtown Highlands, Satulah Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The quiet trail is well-suited for dogs, with a gentle pace and plenty of shade. Leash required.
/ Nature Walks
The Highlands area is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Southern Appalachians. Many are easily accessible with leashed dogs and make for a memorable outing. Cabins near waterfalls in Highlands NC are particularly popular among visitors looking to combine nature with a comfortable stay.
One of the most popular waterfalls near Highlands, Glen Falls features a series of cascading waterfalls along a scenic forest trail. It's a favorite destination for visitors and a great option for those exploring the area with dogs on a leash.
A unique waterfall where visitors can walk directly behind the cascade without getting wet. Located just off Highway 64, Dry Falls is easily accessible and makes for a wonderful stop during a pet-friendly Highlands NC visit.
A gentle, graceful waterfall accessible via a short walking path from the roadside. One of the most relaxed and low-key waterfall stops in the area, and a peaceful outing that dogs tend to enjoy.
/ Dine Out Together
Several of Highlands' best restaurants and cafés offer outdoor seating where well-behaved dogs are welcome. It is always a good idea to confirm with each restaurant before your visit, as policies may change seasonally.
A beloved Highlands institution known for creative, locally inspired cuisine. The outdoor patio seating area is a welcoming space for guests with dogs, offering a relaxed and upscale dining experience.
A casual, convivial pub in the heart of Highlands with a name that says it all. The outdoor seating is dog-friendly and the atmosphere is lively — a great spot for a relaxed lunch or evening drink.
A stylish, contemporary restaurant featuring woodfire-inspired dishes and a curated bar program. Outdoor patio seating is available for guests with well-behaved dogs in a refined setting.
A classic Highlands dining experience in a warm, rustic setting. The outdoor area is suitable for guests traveling with dogs, and the menu leans into traditional mountain flavors done well.
A local staple for fresh provisions, prepared foods, and picnic essentials. The outdoor area near the entrance is relaxed and dog-welcoming — ideal for a quick stop before heading out to the trails.
A charming neighborhood café with a warm, unhurried atmosphere. Outdoor seating makes it an easy choice for guests looking for a comfortable morning coffee or afternoon bite with their dog close by.
Many restaurants in Highlands offer outdoor seating where dogs are welcome, but policies may vary, so it's always a good idea to confirm ahead of time.
/ Where to Stay
These hand-picked pet friendly cabins in Highlands NC welcome dogs and offer comfortable, well-located bases for exploring the area's trails and waterfalls.
Glen Falls Luxury Cabin in Highlands, NC is a highly rated, pet-friendly retreat located just minutes from Glen Falls and close to many of the area’s most popular hiking trails and waterfalls.
With its peaceful wooded setting and thoughtful design, it offers a comfortable and convenient stay for guests traveling with dogs.
Glen Falls Luxury Cabin is located in Highlands, North Carolina, near popular destinations like Glen Falls, Dry Falls, and Whiteside Mountain.
Consistently rated as a Guest Favorite on Airbnb
One of the most highly rated pet-friendly cabins in Highlands, NC.
Lark Lodge is a stylish, pet-friendly cabin in Highlands featuring a stone fireplace, covered front porch, and a comfortable wooded setting. It sits close to downtown Highlands, making it a convenient base for exploring local trails, restaurants, and shops.
Stag Ridge is a pet-friendly luxury cabin set on a wooded ridge in Highlands, featuring a wraparound deck, indoor stone fireplace, and a tranquil forest setting. A well-appointed retreat for guests seeking comfort and calm in the mountains.
/ Good to Know
Traveling with a pet is easy in the Highlands area. Veterinary clinics, grooming services, and pet supplies are available locally and in nearby communities.
Veterinary services are available in Highlands and nearby towns including Cashiers and Franklin, providing reliable care close to where you're staying.
Grooming services can be found in Highlands and the surrounding area for guests on longer stays or those who prefer their pet looking their best.
Local retailers and grocery stores in Highlands carry basic pet supplies, and additional options are available in Cashiers and Franklin nearby.
For emergency veterinary care, the closest 24-hour animal hospital is located in the Asheville area, approximately 75 miles from Highlands.
/ Common Questions
Whether you're planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, Highlands, NC offers a welcoming mountain experience for travelers and their dogs. From scenic trails and waterfalls to outdoor dining, options like Glen Falls Luxury Cabin in Highlands, NC make it easy to enjoy the area fully — with your pet right alongside you.
/ Plan Your Visit
Find the best trails, waterfalls, and pet friendly cabins in Highlands NC — all in one place.