15 Best Hiking Trails for Dogs in California (2025 Guide)
Why California is a Paradise for Dog-Friendly Hiking 🐾
California is a dream destination for dog owners who love hiking. With its diverse landscapes—ranging from coastal cliffs to towering mountains and lush forests—California offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures with your furry companion. According to California State Parks, “California is home to over 280 state parks, many of which welcome dogs on designated trails.” Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline of Big Sur or the iconic peaks of the Sierra Nevada, there’s a trail for every pup and their human.
Before you hit the trails, here are some quick safety tips for hiking with your dog:
- 📌 Always bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl to keep your dog hydrated.
- 📌 Check leash laws and trail regulations before heading out.
- 📌 Protect your dog from heatstroke by hiking during cooler hours.
Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Northern California 🌲🐕
🐾 Lands End Trail (San Francisco) – An easy coastal trail with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge 🌉, winding through scenic cliffs and historic ruins. Ideal for leashed dogs who love a refreshing ocean breeze! 🌊
🐾 Cataract Falls Trail (Marin County) – A waterfall-filled paradise 💦 with lush forests and shaded paths, making it a great spot for energetic pups who enjoy cool, misty trails. Best visited after rainfall for the most stunning cascades! 🌿
🐾 Muir Beach to Pirate’s Cove Trail (Marin County) – A hidden coastal gem 🏝️ offering jaw-dropping ocean views, rugged cliffs, and an adventurous vibe. This moderate hike is perfect for leashed dogs who love exploring new terrains. 🐶🏞️
🐾 Redwood Regional Park (Oakland) – Towering redwoods 🌲, soft trails, and plenty of shade make this park a fantastic escape from the heat. Dogs can roam off-leash in designated areas, making it a top spot for relaxed, scenic hikes. 🐕
🐾 Point Isabel Regional Shoreline (Richmond) – One of the largest off-leash dog parks in California 🐕🦺, featuring a beautiful bayfront trail, open spaces, and even a dog-washing station 🛁 for a quick clean-up after an adventure. Bonus: There’s a café where you can grab a post-hike treat! ☕🐶
Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Northern California 🌲🐕
Looking for the perfect outdoor adventure with your furry friend? These dog-friendly hiking trails offer stunning views, shaded paths, waterfalls, and even off-leash areas for an unforgettable experience. Here’s a detailed guide with difficulty levels to help you pick the best trail for your pup! 🐶🏞️
🐾 Easy Trails (Beginner-Friendly)
These trails are short, scenic, and great for all dogs, including small breeds and senior pups.
✅ Lands End Trail (San Francisco) 🌉
📍 Distance: 3.4 miles round-trip
🟢 Difficulty: Easy
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A stunning coastal trail with panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, rugged cliffs, and historical ruins. Perfect for a relaxing walk with a leashed pup while enjoying the ocean breeze! 🌊
✅ Point Isabel Regional Shoreline (Richmond) 🐕🦺
📍 Distance: 2.5 miles loop
🟢 Difficulty: Easy
🦮 Leash Required? No, it’s an off-leash paradise!
✨ Why go? One of the largest off-leash dog parks in California, with a beautiful bayfront trail, grassy play areas, and even a dog-washing station 🛁. There’s also a café nearby where you can grab a snack after your walk! ☕
✅ Muir Beach to Pirate’s Cove Trail (Marin County) 🏝️
📍 Distance: 3.6 miles round-trip
🟢 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A breathtaking coastal adventure with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and ocean views. The moderate incline makes it a fun yet manageable hike for most dogs. Bring water, as it can get warm on sunny days! ☀️
🐾 Moderate Trails (Great for Active Dogs)
These hikes offer a mix of inclines, streams, and shade, ideal for energetic dogs who love exploring!
✅ Cataract Falls Trail (Marin County) 💦
📍 Distance: 2.7 miles round-trip
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate (some steep areas)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? If your dog loves cool, shady hikes and the sound of waterfalls, this lush forest trail is a must! 🌿 Best visited after rain for the most stunning cascades—just be prepared for some rocky and muddy sections.
✅ Redwood Regional Park (Oakland) 🌲
📍 Distance: 5.4 miles loop (various trails available)
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? No, in designated areas
✨ Why go? A shady escape with towering redwoods, soft dirt trails, and peaceful surroundings. Off-leash sections make it a fantastic spot for dogs who love running freely in nature. 🌳🐕
🐾 Challenging Trails (For Adventure-Loving Pups & Owners)
If your dog is high-energy and loves long hikes, these challenging trails will be a great adventure!
✅ Berry Creek Falls Loop (Big Basin Redwoods State Park) 🌊
📍 Distance: 10 miles loop
🔴 Difficulty: Hard (steep inclines & long distance)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A bucket-list-worthy hike featuring majestic waterfalls, dense redwood forests, and scenic creek crossings. Perfect for high-energy dogs who can handle a longer trek! 🐾
✅ Mount Tamalpais State Park – Matt Davis & Steep Ravine Trail 🔥
📍 Distance: 7.5 miles loop
🔴 Difficulty: Hard (steep and rocky)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? This stunning trail features forested paths, coastal views, and wooden bridges. The inclines can be tough, so bring plenty of water for both you and your pup! 🏔️🐶
Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Central California 🏞🐾
Central California offers some of the most scenic dog-friendly trails. Here are the top picks:
Bishop Peak Trail (San Luis Obispo): A moderate summit hike with rewarding views of the surrounding area.
Montana de Oro State Park (Los Osos): Beautiful coastal trails where dogs are allowed on certain routes.
Pfeiffer Beach & Canyon Trail (Big Sur): A pet-friendly coastal hike with incredible rock formations.
Pinnacles National Park (Soledad): Some pet-friendly trails in this unique rock formation park.
Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve (Escondido): Dog-friendly trails with oak woodlands and scenic overlooks.
🐾 Easy Trails (Great for Relaxed Walks & Small Dogs)
✅ Pfeiffer Beach & Canyon Trail (Big Sur) 🌊
📍 Distance: 1.5 miles round-trip
🟢 Difficulty: Easy
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? One of the most stunning pet-friendly beaches in California! 🏖️ The hike takes you through sandy shores, purple-hued sand, and unique rock formations like the famous Keyhole Rock. Dogs will love splashing in the waves! 🌊🐕
✅ Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve (Escondido) 🌳
📍 Distance: 2 miles loop (longer trails available)
🟢 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A hidden gem with scenic oak woodlands, wildflowers in spring 🌼, and peaceful overlooks. It’s a great mix of shade and open landscapes, perfect for all seasons.
✅ Montaña de Oro State Park (Los Osos) 🏝️
📍 Distance: Varies by trail (Coastal Bluff Trail: 3 miles round-trip)
🟢 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes (Dogs allowed on designated trails only)
✨ Why go? Featuring rugged cliffs, breathtaking ocean views, and rolling dunes, this park is a paradise for nature-loving pups! Make sure to check which trails allow dogs before heading out. 🐕🌊
🐾 Moderate Trails (Perfect for Active Dogs & Scenic Views)
✅ Bishop Peak Trail (San Luis Obispo) 🏔️
📍 Distance: 3.5 miles round-trip
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate (gradual incline with rocky sections)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? One of San Luis Obispo’s most popular hikes, leading to a spectacular 360° view of the surrounding valleys and coast! 🌄 The climb is gradual but rocky, so it’s best for medium to large dogs who enjoy a challenge. 🐶🥾
✅ Pinnacles National Park (Soledad) 🏜️
📍 Distance: Varies (Short pet-friendly trails available)
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes (Dogs only allowed on certain trails)
✨ Why go? Known for its towering rock formations, caves, and condors flying overhead 🦅, Pinnacles is a one-of-a-kind adventure. While most trails are off-limits to pets, some paved paths near the entrances are dog-friendly. Always check before visiting! 🏕️🐾
🐾 Challenging Trails (For Adventure-Loving Pups & Owners)
✅ High Peaks Trail (Pinnacles National Park) ⛰️
📍 Distance: 6.7 miles loop
🔴 Difficulty: Hard (steep inclines & narrow ridges)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? If you’re looking for a serious challenge with jaw-dropping views, this trail winds through rocky spires, deep canyons, and scenic overlooks. 🏜️ Be sure your dog is experienced in hiking rough terrain and bring plenty of water. 💦🐕
✅ Reservoir Canyon Trail (San Luis Obispo) 🌿
📍 Distance: 5.4 miles round-trip
🔴 Difficulty: Hard (steep & exposed to sun)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A rewarding summit hike with stunning wildflower blooms in spring 🌺 and panoramic views at the top. It can get hot in summer, so hike early in the morning and bring extra water for your pup. 🌞🐶
Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Southern California 🌵🐕
Southern California is a haven for dog-friendly hikes. Here are the best trails:
Runyon Canyon Park (Los Angeles): An iconic off-leash hike with panoramic city views.
Solstice Canyon Trail (Malibu): An easy hike with waterfalls and ruins to explore.
Mount Baldy Trail (San Gabriel Mountains): A challenging summit hike with epic views.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (San Diego): Scenic coastal hikes with some pet-friendly trails.
Joshua Tree National Park (Hidden Valley Trail): A pet-friendly desert hiking experience.
🐾 Easy & Scenic Trails (Great for Small Dogs & Casual Walks)
✅ Solstice Canyon Trail (Malibu) 🌊
📍 Distance: 2.6 miles loop
🟢 Difficulty: Easy
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A relaxing and shaded hike featuring a gentle creek, waterfalls, and historic ruins! 🏚️🌿 This is a perfect trail for warm days as there’s plenty of shade for your pup to stay cool. 🌳🐶
✅ Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (San Diego) 🏖️
📍 Distance: Varies (Some pet-friendly areas)
🟢 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes (Dogs allowed on select trails)
✨ Why go? Experience one of California’s most stunning coastal landscapes, featuring ocean views, sandy trails, and unique sandstone cliffs. 🏜️🌊 While most trails don’t allow pets, the adjacent beach areas and Coastal Road Trail are dog-friendly! 🐾
✅ Hidden Valley Trail (Joshua Tree National Park) 🌵
📍 Distance: 1-mile loop
🟢 Difficulty: Easy
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A short but scenic desert adventure featuring unique rock formations, Joshua trees, and wide-open spaces. 🌅🐕 This is one of the few dog-friendly trails in Joshua Tree National Park, making it a must-visit! Avoid hot midday hours and bring extra water. 💦
🐾 Moderate Trails (For Active Dogs & Scenic Views)
✅ Runyon Canyon Park (Los Angeles) 🌆
📍 Distance: 2.7 miles loop
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? No (Off-leash area available!)
✨ Why go? One of L.A.’s most famous dog-friendly hikes, offering panoramic city views, a social scene, and designated off-leash areas. 🏙️🐾 It’s a great place to meet fellow dog lovers and let your pup roam free! 🐶
✅ Griffith Park Trails (Los Angeles) 🏞️
📍 Distance: Varies (Most popular: 3 miles round-trip to Griffith Observatory)
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A historic hiking area featuring multiple trails leading to Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, and breathtaking city views. 🌄🐕 Great for sunrise or sunset hikes to avoid the heat! 🌅
✅ Eagle Rock via Topanga State Park (Los Angeles) 🌄
📍 Distance: 6 miles round-trip
🟠 Difficulty: Moderate
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A gorgeous canyon and ridgeline hike leading to an iconic rock formation with sweeping views of the Santa Monica Mountains. 🌿🐶 Perfect for active dogs who love exploring!
🐾 Challenging Trails (For Adventure-Loving Pups & Owners)
✅ Mount Baldy Trail (San Gabriel Mountains) ⛰️
📍 Distance: 11 miles round-trip
🔴 Difficulty: Hard (Steep inclines & high elevation)
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? One of the most epic summit hikes in Southern California! 🏔️ You and your pup will climb through alpine forests, rugged ridges, and reach incredible 360° views at 10,064 feet. 🐾 Not recommended for small dogs or beginners! Bring plenty of water and start early to beat the heat. 💦
✅ Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon (Angeles National Forest) 🌲
📍 Distance: 11.6 miles round-trip
🔴 Difficulty: Hard
🦮 Leash Required? Yes
✨ Why go? A stunning high-altitude adventure featuring rocky paths, pine forests, and jaw-dropping views from the summit! 🏞️❄️ Perfect for experienced hikers and dogs that love long treks.
What to Pack for a Dog-Friendly Hike 🎒🐾
Packing the right gear ensures a safe and enjoyable hike for your pup. Here’s what to bring:
- 📌 Collapsible water bowl and extra water for hydration.
- 📌 A sturdy leash and harness (check if trails allow off-leash hiking).
- 📌 First aid kit for dogs, including paw balm, bandages, and a tick remover.
- 📌 Dog-friendly snacks and food for longer hikes.
- 📌 Dog boots for rough terrain and hot surfaces.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe While Hiking 🐕
Make your hiking adventure stress-free with these tips:
- 🌡️ Heat Protection: Hike during cooler hours and provide plenty of shade and water to prevent heatstroke.
- 🐍 Wildlife Awareness: Watch for rattlesnakes, coyotes, and mountain lions. Keep your dog leashed in areas with wildlife hazards.
- 🧹 Trail Etiquette: Follow off-leash rules and clean up after your dog to respect other hikers and the environment.
🐕🥾 Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in California (2025)
| 🏞️ Trail Name | 📍 Location | 🐶 Dog Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Lands End Trail | San Francisco | Leashed dogs welcome |
| Runyon Canyon Park | Los Angeles | Off-leash hiking allowed |
| Cataract Falls Trail | Marin County | Dog-friendly waterfall hike |
| Redwood Regional Park | Oakland | Leash-free sections available |
| Torrey Pines Reserve | San Diego | Some trails allow leashed dogs |
| Point Isabel Regional Shoreline | Richmond | Largest off-leash dog park with trails |
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Hiking in California
🐾 1. Are dogs allowed on hiking trails in California?
Yes! Many trails, including Lands End Trail, Runyon Canyon, and Redwood Regional Park, welcome dogs.
🏞️ 2. What are the best off-leash hiking trails for dogs in California?
Runyon Canyon (Los Angeles), Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, and Redwood Regional Park allow off-leash hiking in designated areas.
🌊 3. Are there dog-friendly hikes with waterfalls in California?
Yes! Cataract Falls Trail, Solstice Canyon Trail, and Pfeiffer Beach Trail all feature waterfalls and allow dogs.
🥾 4. What should I bring when hiking with my dog?
Pack water, a leash, collapsible bowls, snacks, a first aid kit, and dog boots for rough terrain.
☀️ 5. When is the best time to hike with dogs in California?
Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures, making them the best seasons for dog-friendly hikes.
🚗 6. What are the best dog-friendly day hikes near Los Angeles?
Runyon Canyon, Solstice Canyon, and Griffith Park Trails are top choices for LA dog owners.
🏕️ 7. Are there pet-friendly campgrounds near these trails?
Yes! Many campgrounds in California state parks, like Big Sur and Joshua Tree, welcome pets.
Ready for a Pawsome Hiking Adventure? 🐶
California’s dog-friendly hiking trails are waiting for you and your furry friend! For more travel tips, check out our 10 Best Hiking Trails for Dogs in Virginia.