A Dog-Friendly Journey Through History and Natural Beauty
When it comes to dog-friendly travel destinations in New England, few places compare to the charm and warmth of St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Nestled in the state’s picturesque Northeast Kingdom, this historic town has become a beacon for dog lovers thanks to its crown jewel: Dog Mountain.
Although I haven’t yet been there with my pack, Dog Mountain is high on our bucket list. As someone who takes her dogs everywhere — from therapy visits to new adventures — I can’t imagine a better spot to explore together.
Dog Mountain: A Love Letter to Dogs
Dog Mountain sits on 150 acres of mountaintop land once home to a dairy farm. In 1995, the late artist Stephen Huneck and his wife, Gwen, transformed the property into an off-leash paradise dedicated entirely to dogs and the people who love them.
Stephen’s whimsical woodcut prints, many featuring his beloved black Labrador Sally, brought joy to dog owners worldwide. But his most enduring legacy is Dog Mountain itself — a free, open-to-the-public haven with:
- Miles of dog-friendly hiking trails 🌲
- Rolling meadows filled with summer wildflowers 🌼
- A cooling pond perfect for canine swims 💦
- Winter trails for snowshoeing (or paw-prints in the snow) ❄️
At its heart stands the Dog Chapel, where visitors leave notes and photos to honor beloved pets who have passed. It’s both a place of remembrance and a celebration of the unbreakable bond between humans and their canine companions.
A Dog-Friendly Town That Welcomes All
The love for dogs spills far beyond Dog Mountain. The quaint town has embraced its canine visitors so fully that the St. Johnsbury Chamber of Commerce created guidelines to ensure pets are safe and welcome. Many local shops and restaurants proudly display a decal designed by Huneck, letting visitors know dogs are part of the family here.
If you’re planning a longer stay, dog-friendly lodging options include:
Both provide comfortable accommodations for two-legged travelers and their four-legged companions.
Nearby attractions like Maple Grove Farms of Vermont (the world’s oldest and largest maple candy producer) add a sweet touch to your visit.
More Outdoor Adventures in St. Johnsbury
For those who can’t get enough fresh Vermont air, St. Johnsbury offers even more dog-friendly experiences:
- Lamoille Valley Rail Trail: A scenic, multi-use path perfect for long walks.
- St. Johnsbury Town Forest: Trails that weave through breathtaking vistas.
- Fred Mold Park: A relaxing space for casual walks and outdoor play.
And while your dogs will be thrilled, humans will also appreciate St. Johnsbury’s historic district, lined with elegant Victorian-era homes and timeless charm. Strolling these streets feels like stepping back in time.
Personal Ties to St. Johnsbury
St. Johnsbury holds a special place in my heart even though my dogs and I haven’t made it there yet. My mom grew up in this quaint Vermont town, and my grandfather proudly served as its fire chief. To this day, McGill Street bears his name — a reminder of the deep roots my family has here.
That makes Dog Mountain more than just another travel stop for me. Visiting with my pack will feel like coming full circle — honoring both my family and my dogs in a town that celebrates both history and canine love.
Why St. Johnsbury Belongs on Every Dog Lover’s Bucket List
From the joy-filled trails of Dog Mountain to the dog-friendly spirit that permeates the town, St. Johnsbury, Vermont, is a destination that truly celebrates our canine companions. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, a place to honor a beloved pet, or simply a warm and welcoming community, you’ll find it here.
I hope that one day soon, Seven, Paige Turner, and I will make our way to St. Johnsbury. And when we do, I know we’ll discover exactly what so many dog lovers already have: in this Vermont gem, dogs aren’t just welcome — they’re celebrated. 🐾
If you enjoyed reading this post, I’d love for you to join me on Substack page, where I share more heartfelt stories about life with my dogs and the healing power of the human–animal bond. It’s a space filled with paws, purpose, and plenty of love—I’d be thrilled to see you there.