Vacations are for the whole family, and your four-legged friend is no exception. Allegany County is full of outdoor recreation opportunities which makes it an oasis for the canine with an outdoor adventure spirit, but that’s not the only thing that makes Mountain Maryland a dog-friendly place to visit.
On the Adventure Trail
Rocky Gap State Park is hailed as one of Maryland's most dog-friendly state parks. Two out of three beaches on Rocky Gap’s Lake Habeeb welcome dogs and even have roped-off areas where families can swim with their furry companion. The park offers over 15 miles of trails throughout, including the 5.3-mile Lakeside Loop Trail that encircles Lake Habeeb and provides dog-waste bags as well as dog-waste receptacles along the route. Hike through the mountains surrounding the park with views of sheer cliffs, a Hemlock forest, and a picture-perfect waterfall. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard on Lake Habeeb to cool off.
Or, take a leisurely drive on the scenic Mountain Maryland byways. Start in historic Cumberland and wind your way through the mountains, making time to stop at Dans Mountain State Park, Lonaconing Iron Furnace, and Lefty Grove Memorial Park. Visit again in the fall as the leaves change color, highlighting the beauty of the countryside.
Eat. Drink. Relax.
After a long day, stop by Busters Treats for a classic sop-serve treat. Load it up with homemade peanut butter sauce and fresh toppings. Don’t forget something for your favorite furry pal, as this ice cream stand also serves doggie cups with vanilla ice cream and a milk bone. Busters is just one stop along the Allegany County Ice Cream Trail. Spend enough time in the area and you can try them all!
Head to Lorenzo’s Frostburg Bakery for the finest Italian cookies, cakes, pastries, and bread around since 1985 and pick up a homemade peanut butter dog biscuit.
Kick back, and drink a cold one at 1812 Brewery, where you’ll find a tap house and outdoor patio with live music and food trucks on weekends. Dogs are welcome on the patio. In fact, along the Mountain Maryland Tap and Pour Tour, you will find a few establishments that welcome your furry friend.
Locally owned Pet Wants in Frostburg, MD, has everything you might need while traveling with your pets, including anti-itch spray, paw wax, and food. All of their products are natural and have no by-products.