Cool mornings, fewer crowds and leaves underfoot: autumn is the best time of year to take a dog into the hills. But a good trip starts with knowing where dogs are welcome and which rules apply, and they can vary from valley to valley.
Four trails worth the drive
- Beech Ridge Loop, 6 km: a gentle circuit through old beech forest just outside Greywater, with a stream halfway round where dogs can drink and cool off.
- Pinewater Lake Trail, 9 km: a flat path around a mountain lake. Leashes are required all the way, but the peaks reflected in the water make up for it.
- Shepherd’s Path, 12 km: a steeper climb to an alpine meadow, best for fit, experienced dogs. Sheep graze here until late October, so keep your dog close.
- Old Mill Valley, 5 km: an easy riverside walk from Cedar Falls, with picnic tables and a dog-friendly cafe at the trailhead.
The rules
In the Greywater mountains nature park, dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than two meters from April to the end of October, the breeding and grazing season. Some core wildlife zones are closed to dogs entirely; they are marked with a red sign at every entrance. Fines start at 150 euros.
Most problems we see are not aggressive dogs, but friendly ones chasing deer or running into sheep. A leash protects the wildlife and the dog.
Lukas Brenner, ranger at the Greywater nature park
Always pick up after your dog and carry the bag out with you. Waste left near streams pollutes water that animals and people drink.
What to pack
Bring water and a collapsible bowl, as many mountain streams dry up in autumn. A light reflective vest helps on shorter days, and an old towel will save your car seats. For longer hikes over sharp rock, consider protective booties.
Health first
Ticks stay active well into autumn. Check your dog after every walk, especially around the ears, neck and paws, and ask your vet about tick protection before the trip.
Build up distance slowly. A dog that walks five kilometers on weekdays should not suddenly do twenty in the mountains.
Dr. Mia Kovač, veterinarian in Westmoor
Older dogs and flat-faced breeds tire faster, so plan shorter routes and rest often. If your dog limps, pants heavily or refuses to go on, turn back. The trail will still be there next weekend.
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