A Terrier’s Summer Escapades

My name is Mr. Pickles; a Scottish Terrier of considerable charm and impeccable taste. I may only be about a foot tall, but I have a nose for adventure and a tail that never stops wagging when the warm weather rolls into the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you’ve never spent the warmer months in Highlands, allow me to convince you, dog to human, why this mountain town is the perfect place for unforgettable summer activities.

🐾Summer Activities to Spend a Day in Highlands

Highlands isn’t just a getaway for humans, it’s a full-sensory adventure for pups like me and their lucky companions. From dog-friendly venues to cozy cafés, this place is my personal paradise. So leash up, pack the snacks and join me as I uncover the must-visit restaurants and recreational facilities in Highlands this summer, one tail wag at a time.

Bone Appétit!

You’ll have a dog-gone good time visiting Mountain Fresh Grocery, one of the tastiest places in all of Macon County. As soon as my paws hit the sidewalk outside, I get a whiff of sizzling bacon and freshly baked bread that makes my tail go wild. While my humans grab their morning lattes or a wood-fired pizza, I get to lounge outside on the patio where water bowls and friendly greetings are always waiting. It’s a cozy, bustling spot where dogs are treated like royalty and visitors fill their baskets to the brim with all manner of groceries. Visit all summer for exciting deals and seasonal stock!

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention ice cream, summer’s classic treat. Kilwins on Main Street has the kind of smells that could drive a pup mad. They don’t serve dog ice cream, but if you look just the right amount of adorable and tilt your head, your human might let you lick the bottom of the waffle cone. And that’s not all. Their other creams, caramels and chocolates are perfect for people, but my forbidden heaven.

Lap up a glass at Highlands Wine Shop, just across the street from The Park on Main. This charming tasting venue offers a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a lovely front lawn with fire pits for relaxing with your favorite human after a day of summer activities. The shop boasts an impressive selection of over 750 wines, ensuring there’s something for every palate. For those looking to explore new flavors, check out their website to view upcoming tastings for a fun and interactive experience.

Highlands Summer Activities for Rainy Days

For a cultural outing, head to The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts. This venue offers galleries, a sculpture and nature trail, plus hands-on art programs. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the galleries, the surrounding grounds provide a scenic and relaxing environment for a walk with your pet. If you’re paws-itively eager to escape the heat or rain, check out their summer activities and workshops to polish your diamond-in-the-rough talent.

One of my absolute favorite places to visit is the Highlands Nature Center. While only service animals are permitted inside the facility, the surrounding grounds are a haven for leashed dogs like me. The adjacent Highlands Botanical Garden is also a must-see, even when it’s raining. This slice of paradise features nearly 500 species of native plants across 12 acres, including mosses, ferns, wildflowers and shrubs. There are trails and boardwalks throughout the grounds, offering the perfect setting for a leisurely walk with your human. It’s a short hike with rewarding views, and the best part is, it’s dog-friendly! The Nature Center is a great place to explore, learn about local wildlife and enjoy the beauty of the mountains, plus, admission is free.

🐾Some Popular Highlands Trails for Summer

For those seeking panoramic views, the Whiteside Mountain Trail is a must. This two-mile loop takes you to the top of one of the highest peaks in the area. The trail is moderately difficult, with some steep sections, but the breathtaking views from the summit are well worth the effort. Remember to stay on the marked paths and keep a close eye on your human.

If you’re bone to be wild, the seasoned hiker will appreciate the Yellow Mountain Trail, an 11.7-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the Yellow Mountain Fire Tower. This trail is difficult and takes about seven hours to complete, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. The views from the top are incredible, offering a 360-degree sight of the surrounding area.

Finally, take the Dry Falls Trail so you can fetch some new sights and cool down quickly. This 0.4-mile hike is easy to navigate and leads to a stunning waterfall you can walk behind. The mist from the falls provides a refreshing coolness, making it a perfect spot, regardless of the heat. Whatever Highlands trail you hike this summer, get off the leash and love it (unless you’re a dog!).

🐾How hot does Highlands get? You’re not Panting too much

While some dogs are stuck hanging around the water bowl during their summer activities, I enjoy cool mountain breezes that feel like Highlands heaven under my paws. The air up here is crisp and fresh: When the thermometer climbs, it usually stops in the comfy 70s. That’s the way I like it—not too hot, not too cold, just right for a long afternoon nap on the porch.

Mornings are my favorite. I bounce out of bed when it’s still in the 50s or low 60s and convince my human to take me on a walk through the dew-covered woods. Everything smells ten times better when it’s cool, trust me. By midday, the sun is shining bright, but it’s never too hot for a quick squirrel chase or a splash in the creek. I’ve heard other dogs talking about pavement that’s too hot for their paws. Not here. Highlands takes care of us pups with gentle temperatures and plenty of shady spots.

Evenings are a dream. We sit out on the deck, watching fireflies while the air cools back down. That’s just how Highlands rolls, calm and perfect for a mountain-loving mutt like me. So, if you’re thinking of a summer escape, take it from Mr. Pickles. Highlands is where the breeze is fresh, the trails are chilled and a good nap is always just around the corner.

🐾Head to Highlands this Summer!

After a full day of sniffing flowerbeds, charming shopkeepers and discovering every shady spot on Main Street, this pup is ready to curl up with a cold bowl of water and a belly rub. Highlands, North Carolina truly knows how to roll out the red carpet for summer explorers, whether you walk on two legs or four.

Paws and kisses,
Mr. Pickles
Your Highlands Blog Dog 🐾