Dog-Friendly Roanoke, VA: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary with Hikes & Breweries
Note: Advertising is how we keep this site free for you to enjoy, and we earn a commission from affiliate links that may be included in this post. Thank you for supporting Back Road Ramblers!
Where can you hike to a mountain overlook in the morning, stroll a riverside greenway in the afternoon, and relax on a dog-friendly brewery patio by evening?
Roanoke, Virginia, checks every box, and then some.
Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this vibrant little city is one of the most dog-friendly destinations we’ve explored. Whether you’re traveling with a high-energy trail dog or a laid-back patio companion, Roanoke makes it easy to bring your pup along for the adventure.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, this dog-friendly Roanoke itinerary will help you experience the best hikes, parks, and breweries the area has to offer.
Table of Contents
Quick Guide: Dog-Friendly Roanoke, VA
Planning a trip with your pup? Here’s a quick look at the best dog-friendly things to do in Roanoke, VA:
- Best dog-friendly hikes: Read Mountain Preserve, Sawtooth Ridge (Appalachian Trail)
- Best dog-friendly parks: Mill Mountain Park, Wasena Park, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve
- Best dog-friendly walk: Roanoke River Greenway (14+ miles of paved trails)
- Best dog-friendly breweries: Olde Salem Brewing, Big Lick Brewing Company, Golden Cactus Brewing
- Best dog-friendly hotel: The Liberty Trust (downtown, walkable, and pet-friendly)
- Best dog-friendly patio dining: Three Notch’d Brewing, The Green Goat, Fork in the Alley
Roanoke makes it easy to bring your dog along for just about everything, from mountain hikes to downtown strolls to relaxing on a sunny patio with a local brew.
Looking for more outdoor ideas? Don’t miss my guide to the best parks in Roanoke, VA, and the best trails around Roanoke.
What to Know Before Visiting Roanoke with a Dog
Roanoke is one of the most dog-friendly cities we’ve explored, but like any outdoor destination, a little planning goes a long way—especially when you’re traveling with your pup.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before your trip:
Leash Rules and Trail Etiquette
Most parks and trails in Roanoke welcome dogs, but they are typically required to be leashed.
You’ll also want to be mindful of shared-use trails, especially in places like Carvins Cove and along the Roanoke River Greenway, where you’ll encounter hikers, runners, and mountain bikers.
Tip: Keep your dog close and under control, especially on narrow trails or when bikes are approaching.
Water, Shade, and Weather
Many of the best dog-friendly hikes in Roanoke are exposed or don’t have reliable water sources, especially in summer.
- Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog
- Plan hikes earlier in the morning or later in the day during warmer months
- Check trail conditions before heading out
Note: Some trails (like Read Mountain) do not have any water access, so come prepared.
Dog-Friendly Breweries, Patios, and Shops
Roanoke has a fantastic craft beer scene, and many breweries are dog-friendly, especially the ones with outdoor patios. We will give more details in the full itinerary below, but there are lots of dog-friendly spots that we haven’t mentioned here. Policies can vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to:
- Call ahead to ask about dog-friendly patio space.
- Keep your dog leashed and close to your table.
- Bring a portable water bowl/bottle for your dog.
- Be mindful of crowds and try to visit places when they are less busy, especially if you have an anxious pup.
- Remember that downtown sidewalks and roads can get hot in the summer. Early mornings and evenings are best for exploring.
Pack the Essentials for Your Pup
Before heading out each day, make sure you’ve got:
- Water and a collapsible bowl
- Waste bags
- A leash (and backup if needed)
- Snacks or treats
- A towel (especially after muddy hikes or river walks)
3 Days in Roanoke with a Dog: A Perfect Itinerary
A weekend trip to Roanoke is all you’ll need to get a healthy taste of what the area has to offer.
Fair warning, though, what may seem like a harmless vacation may turn into a longing to explore Virginia’s Blue Ridge indefinitely, especially if you love spending time outdoors and sipping on craft beverages.
Day One: Dog-Friendly Hike and Downtown Roanoke
Maybe you’re road-tripping on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Maybe you’re driving down from DC. Wherever you’re coming from, you can stretch your legs with a nice hike on Read Mountain before heading into town.
Morning: Hike Read Mountain with Your Dog
Located just seven miles north of Roanoke, this 243-acre preserve is nestled behind a small residential area and features a nice five-mile trail system.
- Distance: ~2 miles round-trip to the overlook (longer options available)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Dog-friendly: Of course (leashed)
Take the Buzzards Rock Trail from the parking area that leads to the summit of Read Mountain, known as Buzzards Rock. You’ll likely see said buzzards, but also fantastic views of the valley and mountains beyond.
There’s a great little picnic area at the trailhead, or you can haul your breakfast or lunch up to the summit and dine with the buzzards. Bring water for your dog, as this is a dry trail.
Afternoon: Check In and Explore Downtown Roanoke
After your hike, drive into Roanoke and get yourself settled at The Liberty Trust.
Parking is available in the Center on the Square parking garage, just a short walk from the hotel. There is a loading and unloading area right in front of the hotel entrance, so you don’t have to schlep your luggage from the garage.
Check into your room, then make dinner reservations at The Vault on the first floor. The Vault specializes in small plates and an unparalleled wine menu. It’s open every evening starting at 4 pm and for light breakfast bites starting at 7:00 am.
Dog-Friendly Stops in Downtown Roanoke
Roanoke’s downtown area is surprisingly dog-friendly, especially if you stick to walkable streets and outdoor spaces.
A couple of fun stops to check out:
- Roanoke City Market: In the heart of Downtown Roanoke since 1882, vendors offer locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants, plus fresh meats, cheeses, baked goods, and artisan hand-crafted items.
- Walkabout Outfitter: An outdoor clothing and gear retailer with great brands, and some cool dog gear!
- Mast General Store: A dog-friendly shop where you can browse everything from outdoor gear to old-fashioned candy.
Evening: Dog-Friendly Breweries and Patios
After a full day of hiking and exploring, it’s time to unwind, and Roanoke’s craft beer scene is the perfect place to do it.
Head to Olde Salem Brewing (downtown location), where dogs are welcome, and the beer selection is excellent.
Grab a flight and try something new; you really can’t go wrong here. The raspberry wheat, called Heartbroken in Disrepair, is made with an unfathomable amount of fresh raspberries, and pretty much tastes like summer in a can.
Want more options? Check out my full guide to the best breweries in Roanoke.
Day Two: Day 2: Dog-Friendly Appalachian Trail Hike + Scenic Views
While Roanoke is famous for Virginia’s Triple Crown hikes (McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs, and Dragon’s Tooth), those trails can be steep, crowded, and not always ideal if you’re hiking with a dog.
Instead, this itinerary takes you to a quieter, more manageable section of the Appalachian Trail that still delivers incredible views.
Morning: Hike to Sawtooth Ridge (Dog-Friendly Appalachian Trail Hike)
Park in the McAfee Knob lot, and instead of hiking north with throngs of other trekkers, head south on the Appalachian Trail to Sawtooth Ridge.
Follow the Appalachian Trail south to Sawtooth Ridge, a short and rewarding hike that’s perfect if you’re traveling with a dog.
- Distance: ~2 miles round-trip (to the first overlook)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Dog-friendly: Yes (leashed)
Within about 30 minutes, you’ll reach a rocky overlook with expansive views of the surrounding mountains—without the long climb or heavy foot traffic of McAfee Knob.
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can continue along the ridge and turn around whenever you like.
Tip: This is a great sunrise or early morning hike, especially on weekends when parking fills up quickly.
Important: The McAfee Knob shuttle (which runs seasonally) does not allow dogs, so plan to drive and arrive early.
Late Morning: Return to Roanoke + Brunch with Your Dog
After your hike, head back into downtown Roanoke for a well-earned meal.
Three Notch’d Brewing Company is a great stop, especially on weekends when brunch is served from 11 am to 2 pm. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, making it an easy and relaxed place to refuel after a morning on the trail.
During our recent visit, I devoured the Brussels Sprout Caesar (addictive) and fries, as well as the King of Clouds juicy IPA, which I’m told is their most popular brew — truly the perfect post-hike meal!
Afternoon: Explore Mill Mountain Park with Your Dog
Spend the afternoon at Mill Mountain Park, one of the most iconic and dog-friendly parks in Roanoke.
The Roanoke Star, on the top of Mill Mountain, was built in 1949 as a Christmas decoration sponsored by the Roanoke Merchants Association. Because of its popularity, this temporary mountain exhibit now graces Mill Mountain year-round and is illuminated every night. It is 88 feet tall, contains more than 2,000 feet of neon tubing, and weighs more than 10,000 pounds.
You’ve got a couple of options here, depending on your energy level:
- Quick visit: Drive to the top and walk to the Roanoke Star overlook
- More active: Hike part of the Star Trail or connect to other park trails
The park offers a mix of wooded trails, open spaces, and scenic viewpoints, making it a great place to stretch your legs after brunch. Dogs are welcome on the trails (leashed), and there’s plenty of space to explore.
Want more details? Check out my full guide to the best parks in Roanoke, VA.
Evening: Relax and Recharge
After a full day of hiking and exploring, take it easy.
Head back downtown for dinner at another dog-friendly patio, or grab a drink at one of Roanoke’s many breweries that welcome dogs.
If your pup is anything like mine, they’ll be more than happy to crash early after a day on the trails.
Day 3: Riverside Walks, Local Finds, and a Relaxed Finish
Morning: Walk the Roanoke River Greenway
Start your day with an easy, scenic walk along the Roanoke River Greenway, one of the best dog-friendly walking paths in Roanoke.
This paved, multi-use trail follows the river for miles, connecting several parks and neighborhoods along the way. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a casual bike ride.
- Distance: Up to 14+ miles (choose your own length)
- Difficulty: Easy, paved trail
- Dog-friendly: Yes (leashed)
A great place to start is Vic Thomas Park, where you’ll find convenient parking and easy access to the trail.
From here, you can head west toward Wasena Park or explore other sections depending on how far you want to go.
Tip: This is one of the best “dog walking” spots in Roanoke—flat, scenic, and easy to navigate.
The Greenway is currently a 14.2-mile paved multi-use pathway that hugs the river while connecting multiple parks and playgrounds. You’ll pass several outdoor art installations, meander over the Roanoke River, and end up in the community of Wasena.
Midday: Wasena Park and a Picnic by the River
Follow the greenway to Wasena Park, one of the best parks in Roanoke, for a relaxed afternoon.
This is a great place to take a break, especially if your dog still has some energy to burn. You’ll find open green space, shaded picnic areas, and easy river access.
If you packed snacks, this is the perfect place for a casual picnic. Otherwise, keep heading along the greenway for a bite at the Green Goat, which is located right off the Roanoke River Greenway as you enter Wasena. Relax on the dog-friendly patio while enjoying a platter of sausages and cheese served with crostini and a sweet balsamic onion jam.
Afternoon: Browse Black Dog Salvage
Before heading out of town, make one last stop at Black Dog Salvage, located just across from Vic Thomas Park.
This massive warehouse-style shop is full of architectural salvage, vintage finds, artwork, and quirky pieces you didn’t know you needed.
If your timing is right (the third Sunday of the month), you might catch the Dog Bowl Market, featuring vendors, food trucks, and live music.
Ready for dinner? Head to Fork in the Alley for a wood-fired pizza on yet another dog-friendly patio.
Optional: One Last Brewery Stop
If you’re not quite ready to leave, wrap up your weekend with one last stop at a dog-friendly brewery.
Golden Cactus Brewing and Big Lick Brewing Company are both great options, with welcoming atmospheres and dog-friendly spaces inside and out.
While Golden Cactus doesn’t have a kitchen of its own, it shares patio space with FoodHut RKE, which serves up a rotating menu of fun, casual food. FoodHut RKE is open for dinner service Wednesday-Sunday, 4-9 pm, and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am- 2 pm.
Golden Cactus is slinging beers every day of the week and is open until 9 pm most days, 10 pm on Friday and Saturday nights, and 8 pm on Sundays.
Big Lick Brewing Company features a massive patio with big umbrellas, cornhole, and lots of opportunities to listen to live music while relaxing with your favorite brew.
In addition to a full line-up of weekend music, you can also pop in for midweek events like music bingo, trivia, and open-mic comedy.
Grab a drink, soak up the last of your trip, and toast to a weekend well spent.
Where to Stay: Dog-Friendly Hotel in Roanoke, VA
While you’ll definitely want a car for whisking yourself into the mountains surrounding Roanoke on your daily jaunts, we recommend staying downtown so you can walk to the various Roanoke breweries, restaurants, and shops.
The Liberty Trust is one of Roanoke’s most distinguished and historic hotels. Constructed in the early 20th Century as the First National Bank headquarters, this gorgeous building has been meticulously preserved, retaining grandiose details of its past, while taking on a luxurious new persona.
It’s centrally located, beautifully furnished, and it’s dog-friendly.
With 54 boutique guest rooms, upscale amenities, and sumptuous linens, a stay at the Liberty Trust makes for a memorable weekend in Roanoke.
This dog-friendly itinerary for a weekend in Roanoke, VA, is the perfect mix of easy adventuring and hardcore relaxing. You will come away feeling refreshed and have a new appreciation for gorgeous trails, outdoor patios, and craft beer.
Follow us on social media for more ideas for weekend getaways!
