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Finding dog-friendly trails in highly populated areas like Orange County can be difficult. Thankfully, Orange County has a lot to offer dog owners looking to explore with their pups. If you’re eager to hit the ground running on some hiking trails, we have you covered. From strenuous hikes to laid-back strolls, this list has something for everyone.
The 10 Dog-Friendly Trails in Orange County, CA
1. Black Star Canyon Trail
Includes private parking and street parking
7-mile round trip that reaches an elevation of 800 feet
Beginner hikers and children are not recommended to take this trail
Beautiful scenery surrounds the entire trip
2. Rancho San Clemente Ridgeline Trail
All dogs must be on a leash
7-mile trail takes over 2 hours to complete
Wheelchairs, strollers, and bikes allowed
Scenic views are breathtaking
Many steep inclines, so be ready for a challenge
3. Peters Canyon Regional Park
Great for kids and dogs
Can park on the street or in the private lot
Landscape is varied, including flat walks and steep inclines
As a loop, the trail is about 6 miles long
A great trail to enjoy nature
4. San Clemente Beach
Spectacular view of the California shoreline
Near a town with amenities
Parts of the trail are ADA accessible
No motorized vehicles allowed
Leashes must be 6 feet or shorter
5. Salt Creek Trail
🗺️ Address:
📍 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
🕐 Open Times:
6:00 AM–8:30 PM each day
💲 Cost:
Free
🐕 Off-Leash:
No
Connects two public parks
Along the trail, you’ll find a skatepark and a community center
Trail is made of asphalt
Difficult trail for experienced hikers
Nearly 6 miles long
6. Shady Canyon Trail
🗺️ Address:
📍 Irvine, CA
🕐 Open Times:
Open year-round
💲 Cost:
Free
🐕 Off-Leash:
No
Trail is excellent for children
Whether you drive or ride your bike to the trail, parking is available
Certain areas are paved, while others are dirt
For first-time hikers, this is a great trail
Views are remarkable
7. Back Bay Loop Trail
Multiple entry points
Nearly 11 miles of trail
Plenty of opportunities for scenic stops
Parks, nature centers, and libraries are along the walking path
8. Fairview Park
An excellent spot for kids to visit
Sunset at this park offers an incredible view
Includes private parking and bathroom facilities
Dog waste bags are available
9. Sturtevant Falls
🗺️ Address:
📍 California
🕐 Open Times:
6:00 AM–8:00 PM each day
💲 Cost:
$5 vehicle entrance fee
🐕 Off-Leash:
No
Great spot for kids
Includes private parking, street parking, garage parking, and bike parking
Waterfall provides a spectacular view
Insect repellent is essential in summer
10. Anaheim Coves
🗺️ Address:
📍Anaheim, CA 92806
🕐 Open Times:
Dawn to dusk each day
💲 Cost:
Free
🐕 Off-Leash:
No
Street parking, bike parking, and private parking are available
A perfect trail for a stroll or a bike ride
Offers a serene escape from the bustling city life
Ideal for birdwatching
Conclusion
We hope this list has given you some ideas of hiking trails you can explore with your dog. Before visiting any trail, remember to review their posted rules since many trails require your dog to be leashed. Bring plenty of water for yourself and your dog, and don’t forget to take breaks as needed.
Featured Image Credit: thatrogersfamily, Shutterstock
Written by
Pets are Jordyn’s passion, especially cats. Whenever she has the opportunity, loves to learn about animals and share her knowledge with everyone. She is devoted to her sassy tabby cat named Jack and works hard to buy him his favorite treats and toys. Discovering new ways to better care for her pet is always on her to-do list, and she is eager to help pet parents everywhere who have similar pursuits. In her spare time, she loves to write, read, and take long walks. She has a creative spirit, which often helps her to come up with funny cat names.…Read more
