While hiking alone can be a fantastic experience, having your dog as a companion on the trail makes it even better. Hiking with your four-legged friend is an excellent way to strengthen the bond between you and your pup, as well as spend quality time in nature.
But you must remember that hiking with your four-pawed buddy requires planning and research. While some hiking trails don’t allow dogs, others might be unable to provide shade for your pup. Some even come with risks of encountering wild animals like bears.
Whether you are looking for a difficult trail or one with mesmerizing views, there are a handful of dog-friendly hikes to explore.
This article is your step-by-step guide to finding the ten best dog-friendly hiking trails around the world.
10 Best Dog-Friendly Trails Around the World
Here’s a list of some phenomenal hiking trails to explore with your dog:
1. Runyon Canyon Park
Located in Los Angeles, Runyon Canyon Park has many fantastic dog-friendly hiking trails. This park has a total area of 130 acres, out of which 90 acres are dedicated for dog activities where your pup can play and enjoy themselves.
On your way up the hill, you can enjoy picturesque views of Hollywood Hills and a glimpse of the famous Hollywood sign. Keep in mind that finding a parking spot can be an issue because many people visit this popular place regularly.
Make sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your pup since the park does not have much shade and water along the hiking trail. You can pick the complete 3.3-mile run or go for a shorter, easier trail. Either way, you and your fur baby will enjoy every bit of it.
2. Stonebarrow Walk
The Stonebarrow Walk is located in England. From ancient hedgerows to beautiful hills to breathtaking views, there’s so much that this place offers. It’s a relatively easy 1.7-mile circular track that allows you and your pup to enjoy the fantastic beauty of the Dorset Area.
You can also explore Charmouth’s beach to enjoy epic views of the towering cliffs of Stonebarrow Hill. Moreover, depending on the weather conditions, a quick splash in the sea with your dog will take your hiking excursion to the next level.
3. Fort Funston
Fort Funston is one of the top dog-friendly hikes in The San Francisco Bay Area. This amazing park comes with beach access and a spacious parking area, making it ideal for you and your pup to spend time by the ocean.
Though most of the trails here are paved, the ones leading down toward the beach are not. You can witness mesmerizing views of the coast while you head down toward the beach. Moreover, your pup can also enjoy roaming the sandy trails of the beach.
4. Herman Gulch
This beautiful trail is located in the west of Denver, in Idaho. This dog-friendly trail is neither too difficult nor too easy; this dog-friendly trail comes with a seven-mile route. You can enjoy picturesque views and play with your pup along the trail.
Make sure you bring plenty of water and some snacks for both you and your four-legged buddy.
5. Tunnel Mountain Summit
Tunnel Mountain Summit is located in Canada’s Banff National Park, which is just a 15-minute walk from the gorgeous village of Banff. This village also has a handful of dog-friendly hotels, making it an ideal place to hike with your canine friend.
Though you and your dog will need to be full of energy to reach the Tunnel Mountain Summit, it’s definitely worth it. You will enjoy picture-picture views of the Bow River, mountain peaks, and Rocky Mount Rundle.
Remember, this trail is home to many animals such as bears, bison, and elk, so always keep your pup’s leash in hand.
6. Grandstaff Canyon
Grandstaff Canyon is another beautiful dog-friendly hike that welcomes dogs. It’s located in the city of Moab. This trail is renowned for its outstanding desert scenery that you might not find anywhere.
The trail also comes with shade, which is essential for your canine friend. However, keep a close eye on ivy poison and stay away from it as much as possible. Your four-legged buddy can also splash the water to beat the heat.
The route ends at the phenomenal Glory Natural Bridge, the United States’ sixth-longest natural rock span. Make sure you bring plenty of water to keep both you and your pup hydrated.
7. Ski Lake Trail, Wyoming
This trail is located in Wyoming’s Bridger-Teton National Forest. It’s a five-mile hiking trail that welcomes dogs. As soon as you reach the end of this trail, you’ll witness incredible views of Grand Teton. Make sure you track your pup’s movement all the time to protect them from moose and bears.
8. Rose River
Rose River is an ideal place to explore if your pup loves water. This dog-friendly hike is located in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Along this four-mile route, you’ll enjoy beautiful forests, fantastic waterfalls, and incredible swimming spots.
Make sure to bring bug spray to combat gnats. Furthermore, be prepared to come across some bridge crossings along the trail.
9. North Fork Mountain
Many consider this 5.3-mile dog-friendly hiking trail challenging because of its arduous climbing route. Nonetheless, once you’ve reached the summit, you’ll witness some picturesque views worth every effort of both you and your canine friend. Make sure you have plenty of fluids to keep hydrated.
10. Tubbs Hill
Tubbs Hill is a relatively easy two-mile trail that welcomes dogs. This beautiful hike is popular for mesmerizing views of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Moreover, it gives you lakefront beach access so you and your pup can have fun.
Final Words
As many dog owners would agree, hiking with your canine friend can be challenging. And it can be devastating to realize that dogs aren’t allowed after arriving at the hiking trail. If you’re looking for the top dog-friendly hiking trails, make sure you check out the trails mentioned in this article for a memorable hiking experience.
By Bobby J. Davidson
I am passionate about our companies and truly enjoy the work we do. To learn more about the Davidson Family of Companies, please visit www.bobbydavidson.com/about. Don’t forget to subscribe to my Newsletter located at the bottom of this page for updates and insights.