Pet Friendly Lodging in Brevard, NC

Looking for pet-friendly cabins in Brevard, NC? A favorite among dog owners is Barkwells—a dog-centric getaway with welcoming cabins and an expansive property for you and your furry friend to roam. They go the extra mile to ensure that you and your pet are comfortable. Their cabins even come equipped with a dog door, dog beds, and dog towels. Beyond Barkwells, several other lodging options in the area will also welcome you and your pet with open arms. Browse our list of pet-friendly accommodations near Brevard.

Dog Friendly Dining in Western NC

Dogs are regulars at many dining establishments in and around Brevard—especially places with outdoor seating. Our area is a top-tier outdoor dining destination. Many restaurants in Brevard welcome dogs on their patios, making it easy to enjoy a great meal without leaving your best friend behind. Corky’s Dawg House is a standout choice, offering a spacious grassy area with picnic tables and plenty of room for your pup to stretch out and explore.

Brevard’s breweries are another dog-friendly option for exceptional eats and drinks. Enjoy a pint with your pup, and get some incredible food from in-house brewery restaurants, such as:

• CHUBwagon at Oskar Blues Brewing
• 185 King Street at Noblebräu Brewing
• Gordingo’s at Ecusta Brewing

For info on pet policies at specific businesses, we encourage visitors to call ahead and be sure to keep your dog leashed while you dine.

Trail Smarts for You & Your Adventure Pup

You may be wondering, are dogs allowed in Pisgah? Can I bring my pet to the waterfalls?

Brevard’s natural playgrounds—Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Headwaters State Forest, and Gorges State Park—offer miles of trails perfect for exploring with your dog. Just remember to adventure safely. Keep your pet leashed at all times while in forests and parks. This is for everyone’s safety—including you, your dog, plus other hikers and their dogs. It’s especially crucial to have them leashed around waterfalls and at overlooks with sheer rock cliffs, such as John Rock and Looking Glass Rock. It’s also a good idea to carry your dog over any rock scrambles.

In North Carolina’s Land of Waterfalls, we encourage all visitors to Be Waterfall Wise. Every year, serious injuries and deaths occur around waterfalls. Keep yourself and your adventure buddy safe by strictly following the Be Waterfall Wise safety tips. 

Top 3 Pet-Friendly Trails Near Brevard, NC

1. High Falls Loop – DuPont State Recreational Forest

• Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Why it’s great for dogs: This short, easy loop takes you past the stunning High Falls and through shaded forest. Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are spots along the creek for pups to splash and cool off. It’s a favorite for visitors looking for a manageable hike with rewarding scenery.

2. Graveyard Fields Loop – Blue Ridge Parkway

• Distance: 3 miles (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Why it’s great for dogs: Scenic loop with waterfalls, open fields, and forest paths. Dogs must be leashed, and remember to watch for slippery rocks near waterfalls.

3. Moore Cove Falls Trail – Pisgah National Forest

• Distance: 1.5 miles (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Why it’s great for dogs: Short, accessible trail leading to a beautiful waterfall. Leash required, and the gentle terrain makes it ideal for pups of all ages.

For off-leash fun, head to Brevard Dog Park. For more dog safety info, take a look at our Tails on the Trail blog.

Travel Tips for You & Your Pet

Keep your pet comfortable while exploring the mountains of Brevard. Here are a few of our best travel tips to make sure that everyone’s tail stays wagging:

• Bring a collapsible water bowl and lots of water
• Pack a few treats and a small towel for muddy paws
• Carry a pet first-aid kit
• Watch temperatures and rest in shaded areas on hot days
• Stop by Purrfect Bark to pick up natural and holistic pet food and treats while you’re in town.

As a bonus tip, bring your pet to the Halloweenfest pet costume event if you’re planning a Fall trip.

Our Favorite Shop Dogs in Brevard

Meet some of our favorite four-legged celebrities! While exploring Transylvania County, stop and say hi to a few of the local shop dogs. Their customer service is exceptional—complete with hand sniffs, smiles, and tail wags. 

Meet Victor

Shop Dog at Newfound Artisan

If you stop by Newfound Artisan, there’s a good chance Victor will be the first to greet you. He’s equal parts local celebrity and professional nap-taker, and he’s always happy to pose for photos.

Meet Millie

Camp Dog at Keystone Camp

Millie knows Keystone Camp like the back of her paw. She’s curious, friendly, and absolutely convinced that every camper is her new best friend. She even writes to her pen pals from camp in her spare time.

Meet the Goldens

Shop Dogs at Earth Mountain Bicycle

Pop into Earth Mountain Bicycle, and you’ll likely be greeted by their Golden Retrievers, the shop’s unofficial ambassadors. They’re friendly, laid-back, and always happy to offer a tail wag while you browse or grab a drink.

Meet Winnie

Shop Dog at D.D. Bullwinkel’s Outdoors

At D.D. Bullwinkel’s, keep an eye out for Winnie, the shop’s beloved dog. She’s slowing down these days, so she’s not on duty every afternoon, but spotting her is always a special treat. If you catch her, it’s sure to add extra warmth to your browsing.

Where to Stay

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing more comforting and cozy than staying at a cabin in the mountains. Keep warm in a relaxing hot tub at Meraki Escape or Valley Bear Farms. If a fire pit by the lake is more your speed, book a stay in the Greystone Inn. For an immersive holiday stay, check out Earthshine Lodge and the Appalachian Christmas event, which includes brunch with Santa, a hot chocolate bar, and other fun festivities (visitors can also participate in the event without staying at Earthshine). Or, make your basecamp at Deerwoode Reserve—an old summer camp turned accommodations and nature preserve. Whether you’re staying at Deerwoode or not, you can experience the magic of the holidays during their Festival of Lights. For more lodging options, check out our Stay page and our Lodging Specials.

Where to Eat & Drink

Start your day with a warm drink and pastry from Cup & Saucer or Bracken Mountain Bakery before wandering through the shops and galleries of Downtown Brevard. When it’s time to toast the season, stop by one of Brevard’s five breweries for a local craft beer. Many offer festive seasonal taps, perfect for a chilly afternoon. If you’re craving something heartier, settle in at The Falls Landing for fresh mountain trout, Square Root for creative comfort food, or The Bohemian Restaurant for globally inspired dishes. And if your sweet tooth strikes before the night ends, treat yourself to a treat from Kilwins Chocolate & Ice Cream or Downtown Chocolates. Whether you’re sipping, savoring, or simply soaking in the season, Brevard’s food and drink scene serves up the perfect taste of mountain holiday magic.

Holiday Markets & Shopping

Avoid crowds at big box stores and the mall—because Brevard is a fun place to spend time shopping for locally made holiday gifts. You’ll find something that’s one-of-a-kind, and you won’t feel the crunch among throngs of other shoppers. To get your shopping trip started, check out Transylvania County’s Local Makers and find out more about holiday markets in the events section of our Holiday Visitor Guide.

Holiday Events

Brevard likes to ring in the holiday season in style. The first weekend in December, on Saturday the 6th, experience Light Up the Night and the Christmas Parade in Downtown Brevard. This beloved day of holiday cheer features live music, hayrides, food trucks, holiday shopping, and the official tree lighting ceremony. 

Late November through December, businesses in Downtown Brevard decorate their windows and storefronts with lights and tinsel for the Holiday Windows Competition. There’s a bit of friendly rivalry involved, but everyone wins when Downtown Brevard transforms into a picture-perfect Christmas town

Take a step back in time to Christmases gone by at the ATOM Aluminum Tree Exhibit. This colorful display of vintage aluminum Christmas trees runs from early November through the New Year, and proceeds support the Transylvania Heritage Museum. You may just get a little inspiration for your own holiday decorating. Or, you might be inspired to leave some of those trends in the past. Looking for more holiday cheer? Get in the spirit of the season with 12 Days of Holiday Cheer for 12 festive activities to fill up your holiday lineup!

Catch Festive Live Music Near Brevard

Live music is the cherry on top of a merry holiday excursion. The Brevard Music Center presents special shows throughout the season, such as Handel’s Messiah, piano showcases, and folksy classics. Check their calendar for more details. 

The Brevard Philharmonic also puts on dazzling performances during the holidays, including their yearly Christmastime in Brevard. For a laid-back live music experience, check out the weekly jams on Saturdays at Cedar Mountain Canteen.

Budget-Friendly Lodging, Dining & Adventures

Where to Stay

Brevard and Transylvania County have a range of relaxing lodging options for every price point. Collecting points from your favorite national brands? You can do that here. Planning a camping or glamping trip with the family? Check out Davidson River Campground or DuPont Yurts. If you’d rather reset in a woodsy cabin or a comfortable hotel room, we’ve got those, too. However you rest your head for the night, there are plenty of budget-friendly lodging options in Brevard. If you want to stay close to the action, try the Hampton Inn near the Pisgah National Forest entrance, Sunset Motel near Downtown Brevard’s restaurants and vibrant atmosphere, or Ash Grove Mountain Cabins and Camping for affordable cabins near Cedar Mountain and DuPont State Recreational Forest. If you want to stay right between Pisgah and DuPont, Foggy Bottom Cabins is a great option. Many accommodations in the area also run special offers, which you can find on our Lodging Specials page.

Where to Eat

Delicious doesn’t mean extravagant prices in Transylvania County. To fuel your adventure, you’ll find plenty of low-cost options without sacrificing quality and flavor, including Mexican restaurants, pizza joints, and classic diners.

Stop by HomeSlyce for mouthwatering pizza and Slyce Happy Hours, where you can get a $4 slice from 3-4 pm and 7-8 pm daily. Rocky’s Grill and Soda Shop, Cardinal Drive-In, and Corky’s Dawg House will satisfy your cravings for classic American Fare. Grab a tasty meal from DuPont Canteen after an adventure in the forest, or get your fill of locally-loved tacos from Casa Mexicana Taqueria. And barbecue folks, stop by Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom for indulgent, smoky goodness. Throughout Brevard, you’ll also find familiar fast food options for inexpensive meals in between your adventures. Visit the Eat & Drink page for more restaurants.

Where to Stay

For cozy accommodations close to the trails, you’ve got some top-notch options in our corner of the mountains. Foggy Bottom Cabins is a quiet forested hideaway at the doorstep of Pisgah National Forest. For that “rustic without roughing it” feel, book a stay with DuPont Yurts. Or, for a remote getaway with easy driving access to Gorges State Park, check out the Cabins at Seven Foxes.

Gearing Up

No hiking gear? No problem. Transylvania County’s outfitters are ready to help you hit the trail in style. These locally owned shops can help you pick out the best equipment for your needs. And, they may even tell you their favorite trail while you’re there. However, if outdoor expertise is what you’re after, consider exploring the forest with a hiking guide. They’ll take you to some of the most scenic vistas and waterfalls in Transylvania County.

DAY 1

Waterfall Hikes in DuPont State Recreational Forest

What to Do

Most folks know the superstars of DuPont State Recreational Forest—Triple Falls, High Falls, and Hooker Falls—but we think that Wintergreen Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are ideal trails for a fall hike. For starters, they’re less crowded. Plus, trees surround both waterfalls, so they’re especially beautiful with some colorful foliage. For more waterfall chasing inspiration, take a look at our Interactive Waterfall Map.

For an easier hike:

Wintergreen Falls

Moderate hike, 2.75 miles round-trip

Get Info

Get Directions

For a more challenging hike:

Bridal Veil Falls

Strenuous hike, 4.5 miles round-trip

Get Info

Get Directions

Where to Eat & Drink

Get your morning fuel from CDR MTN Coffee Bar for breakfast, friendly service, and a delicious brew.

For a picnic lunch on the trail, grab some sandwiches and fixins from Cedar Mountain Cafe. Regulars rave about the chicken sandwich.

Have some beverages after your adventure at Cedar Mountain Canteen, featuring live music throughout the week, year-round, or at Cedar Mountain Moonshine, home to Studio276 Art&Co. It’s the only art gallery in the world that uses its own moonshine to create its art!

Wrap up the day with dinner at Cedar Mountain Outpost, serving up incredible pizzas and local beers on tap.

Insider Tip

If you’re an eco-traveler, the Cedar Mountain Canteen is the spot for you. This sustainability-focused, zero-waste taproom has a huge assortment of over 150 beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options—perfect for a post-hike refresher.

DAY 2

Fall Color Views in Pisgah National Forest

What to Do

Pisgah National Forest is a treasure trove of sweeping viewscapes, but the sights from John Rock are hard to beat. This steep hike along the Cat Gap Loop leads to a sheer, open rock face with spectacular views of Looking Glass Rock and the surrounding forest. For your waterfall fix, take the trail to Moore Cove Falls. 

For an easier hike:

Moore Cove Falls

Easy hike, 1.5 miles round-trip

Get Info

Get Directions

For a more challenging hike:

John Rock

Strenuous hike, 4.7 mile loop

Get Info

Get Directions

Where to Eat & Drink

Grab a tasty baked good or breakfast sandwich to start the day from Pisgah Bakehouse, just minutes from the entrance of Pisgah National Forest.

For lunch, fill up on a classic meal at Corky’s Dawg House, or check out the rotating food truck options at The Hub.

Kick back and relax with a local brew from Oskar Blues Brewing after a long day on the trail. Or, stop by the newly opened Weevil Gear & Beer for a drink in their laid-back beer garden.Is barbeque what you crave, or is sushi more your speed? Either way, you’ll make a delicious choice at Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom or SORA Japanese Restaurant for dinner.

Insider Tip

Stop by for coffee from The Velvet Cup Coffee Truck before you hit the trail, and reward yourself afterwards with a visit to Dolly’s Dairy Bar for a scoop of ice cream.

Breakfast

Your Favorite Ways to Start the Morning in Brevard

Slow mornings and strong coffee stood out as favorites when we asked how you like to start your day in Brevard. Cozy coffee shops topped the list, with several shout-outs for Cup & Saucer and its inviting atmosphere. Brunch came in a close second for those who prefer to ease into the day. Smokey Sunrise was mentioned as a laid-back bite that’s worth lingering over. Whether you’re sipping or savoring, there’s no rush here, just your kind of morning.

Morning Activity

Play In the Public Lands

Once breakfast is out of the way, it’s time to stretch your legs and soak up the mountain air. Several of the questions we asked pointed to the same thing: you guys love spending time in our public lands—from the trails and waterfalls of DuPont and Gorges to the adventures waiting in Pisgah. While swimming holes and river adventures were popular picks, plenty of you reminded us there’s just as much magic on land. Morning is the perfect time to relax by a waterfall, hike (or bike) to a scenic vista, or take a peaceful walk in the woods before the trails get busy. Rock climbing even got a shoutout—and we get it. The view from the top of Looking Glass Rock is hard to beat.

LUNCH

Go-To Lunch Spots in Brevard

Who’s hungry? Adventuring really works up an appetite, and we’ve got a ton of mouth-watering lunch options to satisfy your post-exploration cravings. We’ve got to say, y’all have good taste. A few of your go-to lunch spots included Smoke On BBQ, One More Thai, and Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop. Yum! Bonus tip: Smoke On BBQ is a convenient, drive-thru style place, so take your lunch to Sycamore Flats in Pisgah National Forest or a picnic table in Downtown Brevard.

AFTERNOON ACTIVITY

Get Out On the Water

Your responses made a splash—and confirmed what we’re all thinking: when it comes to late summer fun, the water is where it’s at. In your messages and open-ended responses, rivers and lakes were hands-down your favorite place to cool off. And honestly, we can’t blame you. There’s nothing better than a float, paddle, or dip to beat the heat and soak up the season.

Tubing, paddling, and Sliding Rock are classics for a reason, but if you’re up for something a little different, try river snorkeling or tracking down a hidden swimming hole. However you get out there, just don’t miss your chance to enjoy the water while it’s still warm.

Dinner

Post-Adventure Bites

Your favorite way to unwind after a day outside? Beer and tacos. Several of you slid up to shout out Gordingo’s at Ecusta Brewing. With flavorful food and a breezy patio, it’s the perfect spot to relax and refuel. We recommend going with whatever’s on special; it won’t let you down. Quixote Fine Cuisine got some love too; they use fresh ingredients to make home-style recipes straight from Guadalajara. Start your meal with a bowl of carrot soup (you’ll thank us later) and consider switching the beer for one of their delicious margaritas.

Ice cream wasn’t far behind, and if that’s more your style, Dolly’s Dairy Bar near the entrance to Pisgah is a must. It’s the kind of sweet finish that feels just right before chasing down a mountain sunset. If you’re closer to Downtown Brevard, stop by Kilwin’s Chocolate & Ice Cream for a scoop or two.

Sunset

A Little Golden Hour Magic

Now, let’s end this day right. Golden hour is something really special here, and when we asked where you’d want to be as the sun starts to dip, your answers were split, but in the best way. Brewery patios and scenic overlooks tied as your top picks, and don’t look to us for a tie breaker because we can’t choose a favorite either.

There’s nothing quite like golden hour with a cold drink in hand and live music in the air. Whether you head to Oskar Blues for a laid-back evening or catch a show at 185 King Street, you’ll find good vibes, great brews, and a welcoming crowd. Want even more options? Check out our full list of breweries and taprooms to plan your perfect night out.

Overlooks came up again and again across our polls, from bucket list spots to open-ended shoutouts. You really love a good mountain view, and golden hour is when they shine. Head up to the Blue Ridge Parkway for sweeping sunset scenery—Pounding Mill Overlook is always a solid pick.

Wherever you end up at golden hour, Brevard evenings have a way of stealing the show. And if you hang around a little longer, don’t forget to look up. On a clear night, the stargazing here is just as epic as the sunset.

Insider Picks: This or That

It’s clear from your This-or-That picks that laid-back, water-filled days and mountain cabin stays top the list. Think late mornings, slow floats, breezy afternoons chasing waterfalls, and a brewery patio with live music just as the sun starts to set. That’s the magic of summer’s final stretch in Brevard.

Where to Find Horses Near Brevard

Guided Horseback Rides

In Transylvania County, there are several ways to saddle up with local guides for a fun, informative trail ride. And, there’s no prior equestrian knowledge required. If you’d like to embark on a backcountry excursion or just take a one-hour trot through the forest, there’s a guide ready to help you take the reins.

• Rusty Spur Trail Rides
• Whitewater Equestrian Center
• Pisgah Forest Stables (opening day in 2025 is still pending due to road damage from Hurricane Helene)

Where to See Horses

If you’re not quite ready to mount up, you can also visit horses in and around Brevard. Dark Side Arabian Horses hosts open barn events with vendors, food, educational speakers, and of course, Arabian horse presentations. If you’d like a little action, the annual rodeo makes its way to our corner of the mountains in late summer.

Kid-friendly Horseback Riding

Even young riders can giddy-up in Transylvania County. Take your 7-and-under crew on a pony ride at Pisgah Forest Stables, or book a ride with Whitewater Equestrian Center, whose horses are available for riders of all ages.

Best Times of Year to Ride

In Brevard, some guides are open year-round. No matter what time of year you’re visiting, there’s a horseback riding option available for you. Rhiannon Banks (Rhi), a guide at Rusy Spur Trail Rides, says that each season offers something unique to riders. 

“It all depends on the kind of riding you want to do. I think that Fall is probably the most beautiful season because the foliage is so vibrant. But, Transylvania County gets four distinct seasons, and all are completely different when riding in the woods. There’s amazing plant life in the Spring, and I love mushroom hunting on horseback in the Summer. It’s also really beautiful because all the trees are leafed out that time of year. And, Winter feels really refreshing, which the horses like.”

Horseback Riding Trails in the North Carolina Mountains

Find the best equestrian trails for you and your trusty steed in the Land of Waterfalls. There are several horse-friendly trails in public lands across Transylvania County, including Pisgah National Forest, Gorges State Park, and DuPont State Recreational Forest. A few favorites among riders include the Pink Beds Trail in Pisgah, Auger Hole in Gorges, and Wintergreen in DuPont. For more information about the trails, check the website of the specific land you plan to ride in for all necessary details, and take a look at the Horseback Riding page.

Rhi at Rusty Spur gave us her local expert recommendations for trail riding in the area as well. “DuPont has great facilities for equestrians, like designated parking for horses, and the community that goes there is also pretty good about sharing the trail. The trails there are also really well-maintained, and the waterfall views are great.” She also says that for more of a backcountry experience, the Pisgah Ranger District in Pisgah National Forest is a fun place to ride. “Pisgah has lots of cool opportunities trail-wise, and there are some unique things like river crossings. There aren’t as many people, and it feels more wild. It’s a more challenging and rugged experience. And, if you like new trails, you can ride for days in Pisgah and never hit the same trail twice.“

Camping with Horses in Transylvania County

If you’d like a truly unique equestrian experience, Rhi also recommends horse camping in Transylvania County. Extend your mountain getaway with your four-legged companion with a stay at Wolf Ford Horse Camp, located in Pisgah National Forest. This campsite is a reservation-only campground and is specifically designated for equestrian use. Check the Forest Service website for availability and specific facility information.

Trail Etiquette

Trail etiquette is an important skill for recreationalists to have, and it’s no different with horseback riding. Rhi tells us that in all situations, communication is key. “The most important thing that people can do is communicate while they’re out to show trail courtesy. A lot of times it’s situational. For example, if you’re riding and see someone ahead of you on the trail, communicate with the person in front of you. If the horse is nervous, or even if they’re good and don’t mind other people, give others on the trail a heads up. You’re the person with the horse, so it’s up to you to let the people around you know what’s going on. Or, if you’re hiking or biking and see a horse coming, don’t be afraid to ask what the best thing to do is! If you’re going to cross paths, the best thing to do is stop and talk it out.”

As with all other outdoor recreation activities, it’s important to remember your horseback trail etiquette for a sure-footed ride. For a detailed list of best practices, check out our Horsin’ Around blog.