Are you planning a vacation in Pigeon Forge but you’re feeling guilty about leaving your furry friend behind? Worry no more! The Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee are a pet-friendly paradise. Whether you prefer hiking with panoramic views, exploring local restaurants or soaking up some sun on the river, the Smokies allow even your furry friend to participate.
Thanks to the pet-friendly hotels in Pigeon Forge, you can take your canine companion along and enjoy all the best attractions for both two-legged and four-legged travelers alike. Continue reading to discover what amazing excursions await!
Pet-Friendly Human Accommodations
The obvious solution to separation anxiety is to bring your pet with you on vacation! These pet-friendly hotels can’t wait to welcome both you and your beloved companion.
RiverStone Resort
The fully-furnished condos at Riverstone Resort offer ample space for you and your pet, complete with modern amenities like a full kitchen, washer/dryer, and free Wi-Fi. Dogs under 15 pounds are welcome in select condos with up to four bedrooms, a dining area, living area, and balcony or wraparound porch overlooking the Little Pigeon River or golf course. Look forward to indulging in luxury at the indoor pool, fitness center, and spa, while knowing your pet is safe in your suite.
La Quinta Inn & Suites
Discover the heart of Pigeon Forge with your family and beloved furry friends at La Quinta Inn & Suites. This affordable hotel offers easy access to the Island and all other hotspots scattered along the Pigeon Forge Parkway. Plus, it boasts a variety of room options, including accessible accommodations for those in need and a pet-friendly policy that comes at no added cost to you. Choose from king-sized suites with whirlpool baths and double queen-sized rooms with sleeper sofas. No matter your travel style, La Quinta Inn & Suites is one of the best places to call home while traveling in Pigeon Forge with your pets!
Accommodations for Dogs
Unfortunately, not all of the activities you’ll want to do will be safe or appropriate for pets. When that happens, these local businesses have got the solution.
Doggywood
A fantastic alternative to traditional pet-friendly hotels, Doggywood is a top-notch doggy daycare center. This center offers cozy kennels and adorable cottages, measuring 4′ x 6′ and 5′ x 5′, respectively. Aside from providing these basic accommodations, the staff will also make sure your fur baby has an enjoyable day full of playtime, treats, and lots of love. Named after the world-class Pigeon Forge amusement park Dollywood, Doggywood allows you to shop, dine, or explore the thrilling rides while resting assured that your dog is in good hands.
Book your reservation well in advance and make sure to bring your pup’s vaccine records and food. Keep in mind that Doggywood only caters to small pups weighing under 19 pounds. When you’re ready to take on non-dog-friendly activities, relax, and enjoy yourself knowing that your “goodest” boy or girl is being pampered at Doggywood.
Smoky Dog Lodge
Smoky Dog Lodge is a cage-free daycare center that allows your pup to run free, play, and bask in the sunshine throughout their stay. They also provide boarding suites for cats. All of their boarding and daycare options are flexible enough to work with your itinerary.
You’ll find a variety of ancillary services at this luxury pet resort as well. When you want to give your pup a makeover, you’ll find their grooming services to be top-notch. In addition, their Pet Shuttle Bus provides convenient transportation for your pet within a 15-mile radius.
Smoky Dog Lodge requires vaccination records and overall good health of incoming animals. Dogs that are not spayed or neutered may be able to qualify with special accommodations.
Fun Things to Do with Dogs in the Smokies
You’ve got your pet-friendly accommodations figured out. So, what now? If your furry best friend is of the canine variety, you’ll find plenty of fun activities to do together in the Smokies.
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The beautiful Great Smoky Mountains contain hundreds of miles of hiking trails, creeks and rivers for fishing, scenic campsites, and picnic sites. Cades Cove is one of the best places to find pretty much all of the above, and it’s dog-friendly, too. The 11-mile Cades Cove Loop makes for a fun drive or hike, with plenty of hiking trails leading off the main route. Take your pooch on scenic walks along waterfall hikes and past historic structures. Watch them sniff out the wildlife and wag their tail with joy! Just remember: dogs must stay on a leash at all times when exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
PetSafe Unleashed Dog Park
For some quality outdoor time with your pup in a more controlled atmosphere, check out PetSafe Unleashed Dog Park in nearby Sevierville. This spacious, fenced park contains loads of room for your dog to run around, play on agility equipment, and quench their thirst with fresh water. Whether you’re looking for a quick pit-stop to let off some pent-up energy or a full play-date with new doggo friends, this park has got you covered. With separate areas for large and small dogs, free WiFi, and ample public parking, PetSafe Unleashed Dog Park is the perfect option for those looking for some pet-friendly outdoor fun.
Mad Dog’s Creamery
Indulge your sweet tooth and give your four-legged buddy a wag-worthy experience at the same time! Mad Dog’s Creamery carries a whopping selection of 24 ice cream flavors, cakey donuts, soft-serve, sundaes, banana splits, and milkshakes. While you enjoy the treats at the outdoor picnic tables, your pup can play with dog toys and get hydrated at the complimentary dog water bowls. Plus, Mad Dog’s also offers gourmet dog treats made with natural, human-grade ingredients. They’re even shaped like adorable little donuts and ice cream cones!
Conclusion
Doesn’t it sound like a dream to whisk your pup away for a BFF’s weekend of sniffing wildflowers, cuddling up in a mountain-side hotel, and sharing in the excitement of the outdoors? Well, that dream can be a reality when you visit the Great Smoky Mountains. This scenic region provides a wide variety of pet-friendly accommodations and dog-friendly activities. Don’t let distance keep you from spending quality time with your pawesome sidekick. Start planning your trip to Pigeon Forge and get ready to see plenty of wide, toothy grins and wagging tails!
