Dog’s Head Falls - Johnson, VT
Dog’s Head Falls Dog-Friendly Area in Johnson, Vermont
Located in the scenic town of Johnson, Vermont, Dog’s Head Falls is a popular dog-friendly destination that offers pet owners a unique outdoor experience. Situated just off the Rail Trail, this peaceful spot features picturesque waterfalls and natural rock formations that truly resemble a dog’s head. Visitors frequently highlight the relaxing atmosphere, with a short scenic walk leading to the falls, making it perfect for those seeking a lesser-known gem for dog-friendly hiking and nature outings.
Although Dog’s Head Falls is not a conventional fenced dog park, it is a great place for leashed walks, exploring, and enjoying Vermont’s natural beauty with your canine companion. Parking is available either on the roadside or in a small lot by the bike trail, and the area is known for its tranquility, particularly in the early morning. Pet-friendly trails provide opportunities to stretch your legs while your dog takes in the sights and scents of the area, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Most areas require dogs to remain on-leash since the falls are in a natural, open environment rather than a fenced-in dog park.
- Where is the best place to park? There is parking available on the side of the road or in a small parking lot by the bike trail near the entrance to the trail leading to the falls.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Dog’s Head Falls is accessed via an easy walk on the local Rail Trail, which is dog-friendly and offers a pleasant hiking experience alongside beautiful scenery.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? The falls and river may be accessible for dogs who enjoy water; however, the area is rocky and conditions can be swift, so caution is advised.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, access is available year-round and provides unique seasonal experiences for visitors and their dogs.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The natural setting provides some shade from trees, but there are no covered shelters.
Reviews
Hard to get to where you can see the falls.
Nice easy walk on the Rail Trail to Dogs Head Falls. Nice little area to sit and enjoy the falls.
Beautiful falls location off of a dirt road, it’s a small hike in and very rocky but if you can make it out less than a quarter of a mile then you can get to the falls. It really does look like a dogs head, when we went they were absolutely rushing with water. There’s a small canoe launch further down to go further down the river that is full of rocks and what looks like a campsite. The falls themselves have a ton of divots from where the water has carved into the rock. I’d consider it more of a small falls/rapids over a waterfall but still its a lot of rushing water that’s relaxing to be around. Parking is on the side of the road or a small parking lot with a couple spaces by the bike trail.
Very quiet in the early morning
Right off rail trail but basically it’s a great hidden gem. There wqs a rain storm weeks ago so water is still high but still amazing. It’s own world within hidden in johnson.
Made my first trip here in the winter and I was impressed. The rock really does look like a dogs head which is neat. This spot is certainly worth the trip. From the viewing of the rocks to the waterfall. Very easy to get to.