If you've ever typed "dog-friendly trails near me" into Google at 6am on a Sunday morning, this one's for you.
We're based in North Georgia, and for the past year we've been hitting trails every Sunday morning with Nugget — our Golden Retriever, Chief Happiness Officer, and the reason Nuggy Dog Co. exists. Some mornings we're filming. Some mornings we're just clearing our heads. But we go every week, and we've learned a lot about what's worth the drive and what isn't — especially when you've got a dog with you.
Here's what we've found.
Raven Cliff Falls — Unicoi County
This one is Nugget's favorite, and it's not close. The trail runs about 4.5 miles round trip through the Chattahoochee National Forest, follows a creek the whole way, and ends at a waterfall that drops through a natural rock arch. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the creek access along the trail means Nugget gets to wade in about six times before we even reach the falls.
What to know: The parking lot fills up fast on weekends. We try to be on the trail by 7am. Bring water even though there's creek access — you don't want your dog drinking from unknown sources on a hot day.
What we bring: Beast Harness, Freedom Leash, Trail Bowl, and the Clip-On Trail Light for the shaded sections early in the morning.
Anna Ruby Falls — White County
Short trail, big payoff. It's only about half a mile each way, which makes it a good option if you want a trail experience without a full morning commitment. Two waterfalls converge at the end. Dogs are allowed on leash, and the path is well-maintained and easy to navigate.
What to know: There's a small fee to enter. It gets crowded by mid-morning, so earlier is better. The trail is paved in sections, which is easier on paws but less of a "wilderness" feel.
What we bring: Same harness and leash setup. This one's short enough that we usually bring Camp Clucker too — Nugget carries it the whole way like it's official trail equipment.
Amicalola Falls State Park — Dawson County
This is the approach trail to the Appalachian Trail, and it earns its reputation. The falls themselves are the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi — 729 feet. Dogs are allowed on leash throughout the park and on the approach trail.
What to know: There are stairs. A lot of them. If your dog isn't used to elevation changes, start with a shorter section and work up. We've done the full loop and it's worth it, but plan for a longer morning.
What we bring: Everything. This is a full kit trail. Beast Harness with both D-rings in use, Freedom Leash, Trail Bowl, LED light, and Dad's trail pouch with first aid basics and a battery backup.
Vogel State Park — Union County
One of Georgia's oldest state parks and one of the most dog-friendly. Multiple trail options ranging from easy loops around the lake to longer ridge hikes. The Bear Hair Gap Trail is about 4 miles and gives you real elevation and views. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout.
What to know: There's a parking fee. The lake loop is great for dogs who love water — Nugget has gone in every single time without fail. Bring a towel.
What we bring: Beast Harness, Trail Bowl, and a dry towel for the ride home. Nugget will find the water. He always does.
What We Always Bring — No Matter the Trail
After a year of Sunday mornings on North Georgia trails, our kit has gotten pretty dialed in:
- Beast Harness — dual D-ring attachment for front or rear depending on the terrain
- Freedom Leash — 8 feet gives Nugget room to explore without losing control
- Trail Bowl — collapsible, clips to the pack, non-negotiable in Georgia heat
- Clip-On Trail Light — for early mornings and heavy tree cover
- First aid basics, battery backup, bug spray, extra poop bags
- Camp Clucker — because he won't let us leave without it
One More Thing
We film most of these hikes for our YouTube series, Sundays with Nugget — a weekly long-form video where we share the trail, the gear, and whatever's on our minds that morning. If you want to see these trails before you drive out, come find us there.
The best part of having a dog isn't the Instagram photos or the gear or the perfectly planned adventure.
It's the Sunday morning when you just go.
🐶 Trail-Tested. Nugget-Approved.