Roosevelt Woods

If you and your pooch are looking for a short but scenic stroll in the Hyde Park, NY area, look no further than the Roosevelt Woods Trail! Also known as the Roosevelt Farm and Forest Trail, this fantastically Fido-friendly 3.5-mile loop is located within the Franklin Delano Roosevelt National Historic Site. You’ll find plenty of parking by the main visitors center in the park, and access to the grounds of FDR's property is free. Though the Roosevelt Estate draws thousands upon thousands of visitors every year, the woodland at the back of the property is generally pretty quiet -- you and your doggo might only see one or two other people on your journey.

Despite the location, this hike has much more to offer nature-loving pups than it does hound-dog history buffs (if you two are interested, you can also walk around the former president’s home). You can, however, download a podcast tour of the woods from the park website if you’d like to know a little bit more about FDR’s backyard. The route meanders through wooded wonderland, over gently burbling streams, and by the slow-moving Hudson River, even taking in a small, artificial waterfall along the way. There’s also a small swampy section that attracts all sorts of buzzing bitey critters, so be sure to bring bug spray with you!

The Roosevelt Woods Trail is relatively flat throughout, and the few inclines are very gradual, making this an excellent exercise option for laid-back lapdogs and fitter furry friends alike. Parts of the trail can get very muddy after it rains, so watch your step and bring a towel for post-walk clean-up. In terms of facilities, you’ll find restrooms at the visitors center. Remember to bring waste bags and water for your canine companion, and have a pawesome time in the woods!