Where to Go with Your Dog this Weekend: Sky Meadows State Park

Whether you want to take an easy stroll across scenic meadows, or work your glutes on steep uphill climbs, there are more than 19 miles of looping trails for all skill levels across 1,864-acre Sky Meadows State Park in Delaplane, Va. All, of course, are dog-friendly—though the four-legged hikers have to be on a leash no longer than six feet.

No matter which trail you choose, the views are beautiful, so take the time to enjoy the scenery. Download a trail map to take along with you; while the trails are relatively well-marked it helps to have a visual guide of which route to take when you come to a fork. Some trails are well-groomed and grassy, but others require some bushwhacking through the forest.

There are restrooms on site, as well as picnic tables at various locations, including picturesque Turner Pond. The weekend parking fee of $5 covers admission for up to 8 adults in one vehicle. And if you want to reward yourself on the way home: four dog-friendly wineries—Barrel Oak, Aspen Dale, RdV, and Delaplane Cellars—are on or near Route 17, between the park and I-66.

Gwyn Donohue is the author of the blog Two Dog Tales. Head there to read about more events, activities, and news for Washington dog owners.

Gwyn Donohue