Dog walking in Ashland

W Union Street

If you and your pooch are looking to get back to nature, there are few better places to do so than Ashland State Park! This park is very pawpular with local dog owners, though your pup will need to stay on their leash. You two will find miles of trails to sniff and explore, and most of them have only a moderate incline, so a trip here can include all ages and fitness levels. There’s even a small beach by the reservoir! If you can, visit in fall -- you’ll never forget the sight of all those trees ablaze with color. Just remember to bring your own water and bags!

North Hopkinton

You’ll need to pay $15 for parking at Hopkinton State Park, but once you’re inside, you and your pooch might well decide that the fee was worth it! Like Ashland State Park, this preserve features miles of walking trails through wooded wonderland, but as an added bonus, there’s a large picnic area with benches, so you can take a load off if you feel like your buddy has been walking you! If you and your pup are looking for something different to do, consider renting a paddle boat. The rental service caters to canine customers, and even provides doggy life jackets.

Callahan State Park

Of all the state parks in the area, Callaghan State Park is a real stand-out. It features its own off-leash area -- or rather, several of them! Furry friends can run free on many of the trails in this gorgeous woodland, as long as they don’t pass a road or private property. Of course, these trails aren’t fenced, so you might want to keep an eye on your little tearaway! There’s also a large green field ideal for spirited games of catch. After you’ve worked up an appetite, you two can chow down at CJ’s Northside Grill. This locally owned joint serves up a mean burger, and welcomes wagging tails outside.

Medway

If you and your fur baby feel more secure in a fenced environment, the Medway Dog Park is a real mutts-visit. This, huge, well-maintained dog run has decent-sized, separate areas for large and small dogs, so your pooch can socialize and play be they big or little! Everything you need in terms of water, bags and toys is provided, so all you need to do is bring your pup and prepare to play. Medway has recently dropped the requirement for a permit to use the park, making this one of the few in the area that welcomes both locals and visitors.

North Franklin

Make no bones about it -- your pup will go wild for a treat from Big Biscuits Bakery and Pet Supply in Franklin! This locally owned store serves up everything from healthy, everyday rewards to more occasional indulgences -- even doggy birthday cakes! Afterwards, you two can burn it all off with a trip to Franklin Dog Park. Unlike the Medway park, this off-leash area doesn’t have a separate dog run, but there’s still plenty of space for your pooch to tire themselves out in, and bags and water are provided.