Four-Legged Fun in Frederick County, Maryland
This travel spot is featured in our seventh blog series, Sheps Stay.
Some destinations make you choose between outdoor adventure and charming small towns—but Frederick County, Maryland, lets you enjoy both in a single day. Home to Maryland's largest historic downtown, Frederick invites visitors to stroll streets lined with beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, browse independent boutiques and art galleries, and relax at pet-friendly patios with their pups. Beyond downtown, the county opens up to scenic mountain trails, peaceful countryside, and welcoming wineries and breweries, making it easy to spend every day exploring somewhere new. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and dog-friendly experiences, Frederick County is a destination where every member of the family—including your four-legged travel companion—can feel right at home.
Planning a getaway to Maryland doesn't mean your dog has to stay home. With its scenic mountains, historic towns, outdoor adventures, and welcoming patios, Frederick County, Maryland is an ideal destination for a vacation with your pup. From the lively streets of Frederick to the mountain trails of Thurmont and the peaceful countryside surrounding Middletown, Brunswick, Emmitsburg, and New Market, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy the area together Whether you're looking for hiking, dining, sightseeing, or a comfortable place to stay, Frederick County makes it easy to create a memorable dog-friendly vacation in Maryland.
Historic Frederick, located in the heart of Frederick County, Maryland, is one of the state’s most welcoming destinations for travelers with dogs. Stroll the charming brick sidewalks of downtown, browse locally owned boutiques, admire public art, and enjoy the scenic paths along Carroll Creek Linear Park. When it’s time for your pup to play, Ballenger Creek Dog Park offers a safe, spacious place to run, socialize, and burn off some energy. After exploring downtown, treat yourself and your four-legged companion to Bruster's Real Ice Cream, a dog-friendly favorite where pups can enjoy a complimentary pup cup while you choose from a variety of premium ice cream flavors. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring Frederick
Just a short drive north, Thurmont offers a completely different experience for visitors seeking outdoor adventure. Often called the Gateway to the Mountains, this charming town is surrounded by some of Maryland’s most breathtaking scenery. Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park offer miles of hiking trails where leashed dogs can join their owners while enjoying waterfalls, forest paths, and scenic overlooks. After a day outdoors, grab a bite at Roy Rogers on Frederick Road, where four dog-friendly outdoor tables welcome you and your pup. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this casual spot offers burgers, roast beef sandwiches, fried chicken, and made-from-scratch breakfast favorites. For added convenience, the dog-friendly drive-thru window makes it easy to grab a meal without leaving your furry companion behind. Then relax at Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort, a pet-friendly retreat and the perfect base for enjoying Thurmont and the surrounding mountains.
The picturesque town of Middletown offers another wonderful stop during your pet-friendly Maryland road trip. Known for its well-preserved 18th-century Historic District, scenic valley views in Frederick County, and deep roots in American history, Middletown combines small-town charm with plenty of outdoor adventures. Main Street Middletown is a great place to slow down and explore, with historic architecture, local shops, and restaurants along its charming, walkable streets.
At Orchid Cellar Meadery & Winery, you and your pup can enjoy the scenic 16-acre property, with dogs welcome at the outdoor picnic tables. The woman-owned, family-operated meadery features a hand-built log cabin tasting room, mountain views, and plenty of photo opportunities. You can even bring your own food and keep an eye out for Camen, the vineyard’s resident Labrador! Nearby, Wiles Branch Dog Park provides a fenced space for pups to run, play, and socialize.
Brunswick offers a relaxing blend of small-town charm, historic character, and riverside adventure. A stroll along Main Street and Potomac Street reveals historic architecture, local shops, and restaurants, while the town’s railroad heritage adds to its unique character. Just beyond downtown, the C&O Canal National Historical Park offers scenic towpath trails where leashed dogs can enjoy long walks along the Potomac River. Before or after your walk, stop by Beans in the Belfry, where pet-friendly sidewalk seating, shaded tables, and a welcoming bowl of water make it a favorite stop for dogs and their owners. In addition to coffee, the café serves breakfast and lunch. Riverfront parks and beautiful views make Brunswick an ideal stop for travelers who love the outdoors, while Brunswick Family Campground offers a welcoming place to stay with your pup.
If you’re looking for a quieter pace, Emmitsburg offers a peaceful blend of small-town charm, rich history, and dog-friendly outdoor adventures. Founded in the 18th century, Emmitsburg is one of Frederick County’s oldest communities and is closely connected to the life of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint and founder of the U.S. Catholic school system. At the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, dogs are welcome to explore the outdoor grounds with their owners while visitors discover Seton’s life and legacy. While pups cannot enter the museum or historic homes, they can enjoy the grounds and outdoor areas with their families. For some off-leash fun, Emmitsburg Dog Park at E. Eugene Myers Community Park provides separate fenced areas where pups can run and play. After exploring, stop at Rube’s Crab Shack for Maryland-style seafood and outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal with your four-legged companion. With its historic character, scenic countryside, and welcoming dog-friendly stops, Emmitsburg makes a peaceful addition to a pet-friendly Frederick County road trip.
New Market adds even more charm to your Frederick County adventure. Fun fact: New Market is known as Maryland’s Antique Capital, a nickname that reflects the town’s long history of antique shops and its reputation as a destination for collectors. This historic town along the Historic National Road invites visitors to stroll the sidewalks of historic Main Street with their dogs, admire the preserved buildings, and browse antique stores and specialty shops along the way. For a fun outdoor stop, Hawkins Produce welcomes dogs, giving you and your pup a chance to enjoy some local shopping together. When it’s time for a bite to eat, The Derby Restaurant & Bar welcomes leashed dogs on its outdoor patio, where you can enjoy a casual meal and drinks. With its small-town atmosphere, rich history, and dog-friendly stops, New Market is a delightful place to slow down and explore with your four-legged companion.
A great getaway is even better when your best friend can come along!
Frederick County offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, explore somewhere new, and make memories together. From charming historic towns and scenic countryside to welcoming patios and places to stretch your legs, there’s something for every pup and their person to enjoy.
Whether you're exploring a new community or simply enjoying a relaxing day outdoors, you’ll find plenty of reasons to make Frederick County part of your next dog-friendly Maryland getaway.
So grab the leash, pack the treats, and get ready to discover just how much fun you and your four-legged companion can have in Frederick County, Maryland!
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone had paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in Frederick County, Maryland. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Hidden Spring
This rental has 3 bedrooms with 4 beds and 2 baths.
Photos by Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort
It features the following amenities:
Perched high atop the beautiful Catoctin Mountains
Fully equipped kitchen
Screened-in porch with a relaxing swing
Outdoor fire ring and picnic table
Scenic nature trails, plus a pond and mountain stream for fishing
A gated dog playground, complete with a fire hydrant, where pups can play on their own or make new furry friends
A convenient pet bathing station to keep muddy paws nice and clean
What would Luie Boone have thought of this rental? He would have woofed:
My humans had been planning a vacation to Hidden Spring at Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort in Frederick County, Maryland, and I would have loved to go along. Tucked high in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains, known as “the land of many deer,” Hidden Spring sounded like the perfect place for an outdoor-loving dog. I would have enjoyed exploring the scenic nature trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and following all those wonderful new smells. And the gated dog playground, complete with a fire hydrant, sounded like so much fun! After a day of exploring, I could have relaxed with my humans on the screened-in porch, enjoying the peaceful mountain surroundings. There was even a pond and mountain stream to discover and a fire ring for cozy evenings together. Sadly, I crossed the Rainbow Bridge before we could take that special trip. But I like to imagine myself running freely along those mountain trails, enjoying every new adventure and ending the day beside the people I loved.
Some vacations are never taken, but the memories we dreamed of making can still live in our hearts forever!
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone had sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing in Frederick County, Maryland!
Cat Rock
Looking for a mountain adventure to share with your pup?
Cat Rock is a great place to hit the trail together.
Located in the Catoctin Mountains at Cunningham Falls State Park, the 1.5-mile Cat Rock Trail is a steep and strenuous climb that leads to Cat Rock at an elevation of 1,560 feet.
Along the way, you and your four-legged hiking buddy will make your way through the mountain forest before reaching the rocky summit.
The reward is an unforgettable view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Frederick Valley, along with the chance to explore the dramatic quartzite rocks and boulders of Cat Rock.
Dogs are welcome on the trails at Cunningham Falls State Park and must remain on a leash, making Cat Rock a true dog-friendly mountain adventure. The terrain is rugged, so this hike is best suited for dogs and humans who are ready for a steep climb.
And there's a fun mystery behind the name: Was Cat Rock named because the rock resembles a cat, or because bobcats have been spotted in the area? No one knows for sure!
If your pup loves a good adventure, Cat Rock is calling
Cunningham Falls
Located near Thurmont, Maryland, in the scenic Catoctin Mountains, Cunningham Falls is a pawsome destination within Cunningham Falls State Park for dogs and their humans looking to enjoy a beautiful natural attraction together.
Maryland's highest cascading waterfall drops 78 feet over rocky ledges, creating a spectacular sight that's sure to make both you and your pup stop and stare.
Surrounded by towering trees and mountain scenery, the falls provide a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing outdoor adventure.
The sound of rushing water, the fresh mountain air, and the impressive cascade make Cunningham Falls a memorable spot for curious pups who love taking in new sights and sounds.
If your pup enjoys a little nature, a lot of scenery, and plenty of tail-wagging moments, Cunningham Falls is sure to make a splash!
Catoctin Furnace
Located near Thurmont, Maryland, Catoctin Furnace, also known as the Catoctin Iron Furnace, is a unique spot where history and a little four-legged adventure come together.
Built in 1776, the historic furnace played an important role in Maryland's early iron industry.
Today, you and your pup can explore the grounds and discover the impressive furnace remains and historic buildings.
A short trail leads to the historic furnace area, with bridges along the way adding a little extra adventure for you and your four-legged companion.
It's the kind of place where even a simple walk can turn into something worth sniffing out.
Dogs are welcome on the grounds and must remain on a leash.
While pups aren't allowed inside the museum or historic buildings, there's still plenty to see, sniff, and discover outdoors.
If your pup loves exploring somewhere a little different, Catoctin Furnace is a historic adventure worth sniffing out!
Historic Carroll Creek Covered Bridge
For a relaxing outing with your pup, head to Baker Park in Frederick and take a stroll along the walking paths to the charming Carroll Creek Covered Bridge.
Built by the City of Frederick in 1965, the 40-foot pedestrian bridge crosses Carroll Creek and adds a touch of old-fashioned charm to the park.
Unlike the historic covered bridges found elsewhere in Frederick County, this little red bridge was designed as a scenic walkway, making it a fun spot to explore and snap a few pictures with your four-legged companion.
Catoctin Creek
For a peaceful outdoor adventure with your pup, head to Catoctin Creek Park in Middletown, where nearly two miles of unpaved trails wind through woods, meadows, and along the creek.
The Catoctin Creek Loop follows the eastern bend of the water, giving you and your leashed dog plenty of opportunities to explore, sniff, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Along the way, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes that make the walk interesting for both you and your four-legged companion.
The park’s quiet setting and gentle trails make it an easy place to slow down, take in the scenery, and enjoy some quality time together.
Whether your pup loves following new scents, exploring beside the water, or simply stretching their legs in the fresh air, Catoctin Creek offers a relaxing change of pace for your Frederick County, Maryland adventure.
9 Ponds Loop
For dogs who love to explore, 9 Ponds Loop in the Frederick Municipal Forest, also known as the Frederick City Watershed, offers a true woodland adventure.
This approximately nine-mile loop winds through a peaceful forest landscape and passes a series of ponds, giving you and your pup plenty of opportunities to discover something new along the way.
The trail’s changing scenery, quiet surroundings, and numerous ponds make the hike especially interesting for curious dogs who enjoy stopping to sniff and explore.
Keep your pup under control as you make your way through the forest, and take time to enjoy the peaceful beauty of this less-traveled corner of Frederick County, Maryland. With its miles of woodland trails and scenic ponds, 9 Ponds Loop is a wonderful adventure for dogs and their people who are ready to spend a little more time in the great outdoors.
River’s Edge Trail
River’s Edge Trail in Brunswick, Maryland, is a great little escape for you and your four-legged friend.
This easy 2.2-mile loop winds through a peaceful, wooded setting, making it a nice spot to enjoy some fresh air and exercise together.
Dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they’re kept on a leash.
For your dog, the real adventure is likely all the new scents hiding around every bend, making this short trail feel like a much bigger exploration.
You may also encounter mountain bikers and other trail users, so keep your pup close and be mindful of others along the way.
Bring water, waste bags, and a leash, then enjoy a relaxing adventure with your best friend.
River’s Edge Trail is a great choice when you want a change of scenery without committing to a long hike.
JoJo's Restaurant & Tap House
JoJo’s Restaurant & Tap House in downtown Frederick, Maryland, is a fun place to end a day of adventures with your four-legged friend.
Located on East Patrick Street, JoJo’s offers outdoor patio seating where leashed dogs can join you.
Even better, your pup doesn’t have to feel left out when it’s time to eat—JoJo’s has a dog menu with options like carrots, green beans, rice, and even a burger patty.
While your dog enjoys a special treat, you can relax with a meal and choose from JoJo’s American-style menu and extensive selection of drinks.
The restaurant has both a casual dining room and a lively tap house, with rotating beers and a street-side patio during warmer months.
After a day of exploring Frederick County, there’s something pretty nice about ending the adventure with good food, a cold drink, and your best friend right beside you.
JoJo’s makes a great final stop for a paws-venture through Frederick.
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Frederick County, Maryland
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that would have put Luie Boone's leash in a twist and he would have woofed:
My humans had planned a vacation to Frederick County, Maryland, and I was so excited to go along with them. I was ready for new places to sniff, beautiful scenery to explore, and plenty of adventures to share with my favorite people. Sadly, I crossed the Rainbow Bridge before we ever got to take that vacation together. But as my humans looked into all the wonderful things Frederick County had to offer, they discovered one thing I definitely would not have been happy about. You see, my human Dad loved beer, and Frederick County has a fantastic craft beer scene, with breweries scattered throughout the county and plenty of dog-friendly places where pups could hang out with their humans. But here's the ruff part—Dad could enjoy the local brews, but I couldn't have the beer! I would have had to settle for a bowl of good old-fashioned water while Dad sampled the local favorites. Sure, some dog-friendly spots might have had a special treat waiting for me, but let's be honest... it just wasn't the same. If I had gotten to take that vacation, I would have been campaigning for a special doggie brew right alongside Dad!
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