Dog-Friendly Activities in Helen, GA

Cool River Tubing offers a variety of options for dog-friendly tubing trips down the Chattahoochee River in Helen, GA. Pets are welcome to tube with their human family members or ride in a tube of their very own. Please note that this attraction is open seasonally; be sure to check their website for current days and hours of operation.

Anna Ruby Falls is a beautiful waterfall near Helen, GA. Located in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, this picturesque spot can be accessed from a pet-friendly, half-mile trail within Unicoi State Park. The short hike is fairly steep, but the view of the falls is worth it. Dogs are welcome on the trail, as long as they are leashed and cleaned up after.

Fido is welcome to explore Unicoi State Park in Helen, GA. This dog-friendly park features 1,029 acres of adventure activities, a 53-acre lake nestled between mountaintops and gorgeous trails to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. There is even a small, fenced dog park next to the park's main office. Visiting pets must be friendly and on a short, sturdy leash. Dog owners must be courteous to other patrons and clean up after their pets in all areas of the park. There's an entrance fee per vehicle.

Take your leashed pup to explore the pet-friendly Dukes Creek Falls trail in Helen, GA. Located inside the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, this path follows a 300-foot waterfall through an out-and-back trail about two miles long. Please note that there is a fee for entering the forest (cash or check only).

Bring Fido along for a timeless adventure at Steve's Old Time Photo in downtown Helen, GA. This dog-friendly photo studio has over 45 years of experience creating fun, old-time portraits that capture unforgettable memories. Dress up in vintage costumes, strike a pose with your pup and walk away with a keepsake you'll treasure forever.

Alpine Mini Golf is pet-friendly. Located in downtown Helen and decorated with stunning floral displays, you and your pooch can play a fun round together at this 18-hole alpine themed miniature golf course. If you're worried about your canine caddy getting in the way when you're lining up a shot, there's a place to hook him up at each hole. Alpine Mini Golf is open every day of the week from 10am to 10pm from March through November (weather permitting). The course is also open on weekends December through February. Call ahead to check opening times during winter months.

Leashed dogs are welcome to join their humans in certain areas of Smithgall Woods State Park in Helen, GA. There are 28 miles of pet-friendly trails that your pup can enjoy if they are on a leash under six feet. If you get tired on one of the trails, you can stop for a rest at one of the many picnic shelters. The park is also a very popular fishing destination.

Well-behaved, leashed dogs can join their owners at Outpost Gold & Gem Mining Co. in Helen, GA. This unique, pet-friendly attraction features gold and gemstone jewelry as well as gem mining, gold panning, and lapidary services.

Unicoi to Helen Trail is a 3-mile, one-way, pet-friendly pathway that leads from Unicoi State Park into Helen's bustling Bavarian downtown. Leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners on this moderate, heavily trafficked hike, as long as all mess is cleaned up after them and they remain on a short leash.

Alpine Festival of Arts and Crafts is a dog-friendly gift shop in Helen, GA. With over 5,000 sq. ft., it is the largest of its kind in the city. The store is filled with arts and crafts, gifts, souvenirs, and much more.

Helen Tubing in Helen, GA, is a dog-friendly way to float the Chattahoochee River—weather permitting. Leashed pups are welcome but must ride in their own tube. Guests should bring a towel to protect the tube from nails and hook-up straps are available to keep tubes together. Consider your dog’s comfort with crowds, rapids and shuttle rides before bringing him along.

Take a stroll with Fido along the picturesque German-inspired town of Alpine Helen, formally known as Helen, GA. The town is a re-creation of an alpine village with gingerbread-trimmed buildings, Old World towers, balconies and squares, restaurants, and shops. Some restaurants offer outdoor seating that is dog friendly, and some shops will allow a leashed pup, but be sure to inquire first before entering any buildings with Fido.

Raven Cliffs Trail is a dog-friendly trail in Helen, GA. This trail is home to a trout stream, 40-foot waterfall, mossy areas, and acres of wildflowers. Your leashed dog is welcome to join you on the trail, but he must be picked up after to adhere to the Leave No Trace practices of the park. Please check their website for current rates of admittance.

Christoffs Caramel Corn & Coffee is a dog-friendly coffeeshop in Helen, GA. While dogs are not allowed in the store or on the back deck, you are welcome to sit with Fido at the seating area in front of the store. The shop sells a variety of caramel corn and hot and cold beverages.

Spice things up at Pepper Palace in Helen, GA. This pet-friendly shop invites leashed pups to join their humans inside to check out the selection of hot sauces, salsas, BBQ blends, and more. Don't forget to try some samples to find your favorite flavor.

Leashed dogs are welcome in outdoor seating area and at the outdoor bar at Kaya Vineyard & Winery in Dahlonega, GA. This pet-friendly establishment boasts panoramic mountain views, estate-grown and hand-crafted wines and a 2,000 square-foot covered deck where they frequently features live music. The also offer a light menu on certain days of the week. Please note that outside food is not permitted on the property.

Leashed dogs are welcome in outdoor spaces, including the covered patio, at The Cottage Vineyard & Winery, a pet-friendly winery in Cleveland, GA. Located in the North Georgia mountains, this family-oriented winery offers stunning views, great wine and the southern hospitality to match. You can enjoy wine tastings, wine by the glass, bottle or case, and some light snacks. The schedule for food trucks, live music and other events can be found on their website.

Popular with locals and tourists alike, the Mount Yonah Trail is a pet-friendly trail in Cleveland, GA. Leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners as they hike through a forest, past wildflowers, steep drop-offs and exposed rock outcrops to panoramic views at the summit. The hike is roughly 4 miles round trip and is a moderately strenuous hike.

Crane Creek Vineyards in Young Harris, GA, is a local, dog-friendly vineyard with a great variety of wines. Leashed dogs are welcome both outside and inside the tasting room. Tasting flights, and wine by the glass and bottle are available. A small selection of cheese and snacks is available for purchase, but you are also welcome to bring your own picnic. Outside alcohol is not permitted.

Leashed dogs can visit the pet-friendly Vogel State Park in Blairsville, GA. This local recreation area offers an array of amenities for parkgoers, including fishing, hiking, picnicking, a playground and more.