Rose River Fire Road Trailhead - Syria, VA
Rose River Fire Road Trailhead – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Syria, Virginia
The Rose River Fire Road Trailhead in Syria, VA, offers one of the most scenic pet-friendly hiking experiences near Shenandoah National Park. Known for its beautiful riverside paths and access to iconic spots like Rose River Falls and Dark Hollow Falls, this trailhead is popular among local dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts. The trail follows an old fire road, making it wide and well-marked, and provides plenty of opportunities for your pup to play in the water and enjoy the outdoors.
While not a traditional fenced dog park, the Rose River area is ideal for those seeking dog-friendly hiking near Syria, Virginia. The trail is moderately challenging, with rocky and sometimes wet terrain, so proper footwear is recommended. Parking is available at Fisher’s Gap parking lot, with direct access to the trail. The hike is family-friendly, and there are shaded areas along the river, though amenities for dogs and humans are limited, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Rose River Fire Road connects to the popular Rose River Trail and offers access to Rose River Falls and Dark Hollow Falls.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Dogs can play and swim in the river along the trail in several spots.
- Is there parking available? Yes, parking is available at the Fisher’s Gap parking lot, located directly across from the fire road.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there is natural shade from trees along the trail.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The trail can be wet and muddy, especially after recent rain or when the river overflows.
- Is this a good dog-friendly hiking trail in Syria, Virginia? Yes, it is a highly recommended and dog-friendly trail for hiking and spending time outdoors with your pet.
Reviews
Make sure not to trust waze or any other gps that tries to take you outside of the park. While this trail is accessible from outside it is a grueling 11 miles (I believe, maybe “only” 9) and is only for really experienced hikers. The trailhead in the park and the trail itself are incredible just as so many websites have written about them and I highly recommend it!
This trail head is outside the park and follows the Rose River Trail, which is an old Fire road. Well parked and wide. Takes you right up to the rose river falls or even Dark Hollow Falls which is one of the most popular falls in the park. Most of it is not that steep. The parking area though is for a few cars, you got a gravel road to get to it.
First off this is NOT the 3 mile rose River loop. So don’t head here thinking that. It’s an 11 mile loop. We hiked to where it splits and then hiked back which is about 3 miles. It’s a beautiful trail along the river with places to get down for the pup to play in the water. It is rocky and places were wet from the river overflowing onto the trail plus you cross some water so ended up with wet feet but worth it. We heard about a black bear spotting from some other hikers we passed but we didn’t get to see it. Very beautiful moderate intensity trail.
There is no summit on this hike. It’s a loop down and back up along the Rose River. Definitely steep at times but nothing terribly strenuous other than that. A wonderful hike!
Great place, but wrong directions. Access is through Shenandoah National Park. You park at Fisher’s Gap parking lot which is directly across from the fire road. I highly recommend trekking poles and wearing hiking boots. If you wear trail runners, prepare to roll your ankles!