Hopewell Furnace Dog Policy
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is Dog Friendly
Hopewell Furnace displays early American industrial operations and iron making from 1771 through 1883. Hopewell and other similar iron plantations supported the industrial revolution and transformation of the United States into a leading industrial power. The site here encompasses 848 acres, and many historic buidings and exhibits around the historical lifestyle and technology of iron making.
Hopewell Furnace is pretty dog friendly. While dogs are not allowed inside most of the buildings, they are allowed to walk with you throughout the village, and allowed on the extensive trail system. There are also many demonstrations here, and during part of the year, you can even pick apples here with your dog.
Hopewell Furnace also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog tag by learning and following responsible practices (see the BARK Ranger section below).
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/hofu/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/hofu/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
Trail Policy
Dogs are allowed along trails while on a leash. You can read about the many trail options at the NPS site. Note that ticks are relatively common here, so make sure to check your dog and yourself for ticks after walking here.
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
For more information on the Bark Ranger program, please see: https://www.nps.gov/hofu/getinvolved/become-a-bark-ranger.htm
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
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