Essex is a pet-friendly town that offers plenty of opportunities for you and your pet to explore together. From mountain trails to restaurant patios, Essex is the place to bond with your pet and enjoy all that Vermont has to offer.
The Essex dog park is a wonderful free place for you and your dog to socialize with other dogs and their people. It’s open year-round and features two fenced in areas- one for small dogs and one for large dogs- where dogs can run and play off-leash and get the fresh air and exercise they crave.
The Indian Brook Park features the Reservoir Trail, a 3.8 mile dog-friendly hiking trail that offers stunning scenic views of the surrounding mountains and reservoir. The trail is relatively easy and suited for most hikers and dogs. Visit their website to learn more about the reservoir’s water quality and when it is safe to take a dip!
After a long walk nothing is better than a good meal. Essex boasts many dog-friendly patios so you can enjoy relaxing and dining outside with your pet! Check out Foam Brewers, Vermont Pub & Brewery, American Flatbread, The Skinny Pancake, and Switchback Brewing, to name a few!
Maple Street park is a great place to take your dog for a casual stroll on its accessible paved trails or through a wooded area. The park offers a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy from playgrounds, to basketball courts, a skate park, tennis courts, and more. You definitely don’t need to leave your dog at home for this family outing!
Lake Champlain is a short drive from Essex and features parks and dog-friendly beaches where you and your dog can relax and swim together in the warmer months. If you’re feeling extra adventurous you can even rent a stand-up paddle board to share!
The area farmer’s market is open Friday afternoons from May through October in downtown Essex Junction and allows leashed dogs to accompany their people while they browse local seasonal produce, goods, and prepared foods while enjoying live music.
These are just some of the many pet friendly attractions in Essex. With so many options, you and your pet are sure to enjoy yourselves while exploring our beautiful town! As always, be sure to clean up after your pet, and respect other people and their pets by following leash ordinances and general dog and hiking etiquette.