Dog-Friendly Activities in Sautee Nacoochee, GA

Leashed dogs are allowed on the nature trails and outdoor areas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site, a pet-friendly attraction in Sautee Nacoochee, GA. The iconic Unicoi Turnpike, which was created by early Native Americans, will take you through historic farm landscape where both early Native Americans lived and later on the Nichols and Hardman families’ built their mansion. While Fido is not permitted inside any of the buildings, you can enjoy wandering the grounds and admire the Native American mound that still occupies the grounds. This historic site is open from March through December.

Dukes Creek Gold and Ruby Mines is a relaxed, seasonal, outdoor gem‑mining experience where families can pan for real gold and gemstones within Sautee Nacoochee, GA, in the North Georgia mountains. Well‑behaved dogs on leash are welcome to stay by your side at the flumes and around the grounds, so pets can enjoy the fresh air with you instead of waiting in the car.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Leashed dogs are welcome at Moccasin Creek State Park in Clarkesville, GA. This pet-friendly park offers 2,800 acres to explore with your furry friend, making this the prime spot for hiking, kayaking and fishing. Be sure to visit the Hemlock Falls Trail to view the waterfalls with your furry friend beside you.

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.

Leashed dogs are welcome outdoors at Yonah Mountain Vineyards. This 200 acre family winery is located on the southeastern base of iconic Yonah Mountain. Making world class wines and enjoying the process is their ultimate goal! Enjoy tasting flights, wine by the bottle or glass.

Leashed dogs are welcome at Mountain Laurel Antique Mall, a pet-friendly shopping space in Cleveland, GA. In addition to antiques and vintage items, Fido can help you sniff out numerous items from over 40 vendor booths, including furniture, dinnerware, lamps, tools, art, crystal and more.

Dog-friendly Union County Farmers "Barket" Dog Park is located near the Farmers Market in Blairsville, GA. There are fenced areas for off-leash play and trails for humans to enjoy with their leashed canine companions. All dogs visiting the park must wear a collar with a valid license and have current vaccinations required by law. The dog park is open daily from dawn to dusk and closed on Wednesdays from 10am-2pm for maintenance.

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).

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.

Black Rock Mountain State Park in Mountain City is Georgia's highest state park, offering stunning landscape views, roadside overlooks, and 4 pet-friendly hiking trails. The park welcomes dogs as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet; however, they are not permitted in or around historic sites, lodges, group camps or swimming areas. Please note that this park is closed from December 1 - March 15.

Dahlonega General Store in Dahlonega, GA is dog friendly. Enjoy a shopping experience where Fido is welcome to join you, and may be greeted by staff would like to pet him! Dogs can be carried, on a leash, or in a stroller while you browse the selection of knives, baskets, nostalgic metal signs, and moccasins, old-fashioned toys, candy, and country gifts.