Dolly Sods - Davis, WV
Dolly Sods Dog-Friendly Park in Davis, West Virginia
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Dolly Sods, located in the Monongahela National Forest near Davis, WV. This pet-friendly destination is known for its miles of unique, varied hiking trails, scenic vistas, and stunning waterfalls, making it a top spot for dog owners seeking adventure in the great outdoors. Hikers and their canine companions will enjoy a blend of open meadows, rocky paths, boardwalks, creeks, and lush forests teeming with wildlife. The area is perfect for dog-friendly hiking and nature photography, especially in the fall when the colors are at their peak.
While Dolly Sods is not a traditional urban dog park, its extensive trail system welcomes leashed pets and offers plenty of space to roam. With ample natural shade, incredible star gazing, and parking areas at trailheads, it’s a fantastic rural retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs. Be prepared for challenging terrain, muddy or wet conditions, occasional crowds on weekends, and limited cell reception. Come see why Dolly Sods is regarded as one of the most unique ecosystems and hiking areas on the East Coast!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are generally required to be on a leash since this is a protected wilderness area with wildlife and other visitors present.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced or designated dog area. This is a wilderness hiking area.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs should be kept on a leash for safety and environmental preservation.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there is plenty of natural shade throughout the hiking trails.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? There are no typical park benches, but natural rocks and scenic spots along the trails provide resting opportunities.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There are creeks and rivers along various trails where dogs may be able to splash or swim, but these are natural water sources, not designated swim zones.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there are parking lots at trailheads. Arrive early on weekends to ensure a spot.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Dolly Sods features miles of pet-friendly hiking trails with diverse landscapes.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, the area can become very muddy and wet, so plan accordingly.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? Dolly Sods can get crowded during summer weekends, so visit early or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
Reviews
You really don’t appreciate nature at its finest until you get on the Dolly Sods Wilderness Trail in the Monongahela National Forest. Seven close friends and I hit the trail the weekend of May 16th thru 18th and we’re greeted by strong winds, heavy rain, mud, creeks, rivers, and over six unique terrains, topography, and species of low growing shrubs, and trees. Saturday was perfect as we headed to Lion’s head and ate lunch, then Sunday morning woke to a couple of deer grazing just at the wood line in the meadows saying hello. 23 miles total (lost our way a couple of times because the trails are not marked) but a great adventure all around.
I didn’t have a great time like everyone else. Maybe I’ll take Jordan run road instead of laneville. Roads are a heck of a thing to drive on. Need a four wheel drive truck. No cell reception at all. Not enough signs to tell you where you’re going. The bridge was narrow with a stop sign. The river was beautiful. This is way out there, and up there, so be very prepared.
What a great place! It definitely looks like you’ve moved north. I’ve been thinking about coming here for a long time, and finally did it. Did 3 days and two nights backpacking. Covered most of the trails except for Red Creek down in the valley. Really enjoyed it.
Nice wilderness backpacking area… Tons of good camping. The only downside is the crowds it’s so busy it can be hard to find parking and don’t think about any seclusion, in a summer weekend it’s packed here! Beautiful otherwise and an excellent place to view stars.
Some of the most interesting backpacking on the east coast, in my opinion. Lots of different ecosystems, some of which apparently more closely resemble northern Canada than West Virginia. Cool stuff.
Be prepared for wet/muddy conditions and trails that can be difficult to follow. Not for the faint of heart! But incredible.