13 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Southern California You Can Visit (2023 Guide)
newsmagzines
Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.
If your dog isn’t a fan of the beach, why not spend time together enjoying some of Southern California’s excellent hiking? Mountains, forests, and deserts can all be found just a short drive from most residential areas in Southern California, sometimes even within city limits! Here are 13 dog-friendly hiking trails in Southern California that you can explore in 2023.
The Top 13 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Southern California
1. Paramount Ranch
Features several loop trails with minimal elevation gains and lovely views
Horseback riders also use the trails
Plenty of free parking, bathrooms, and water are available
Previously the site of an old West town set used in movie productions
A good spot to hike with kids
2. Runyon Canyon Trail
One of the most popular trails for dogs
Limited street parking is available
Off-leash dogs are allowed along part of the trail
7-mile loop trail with limited shade
Bring your own water
3. Wisdom Tree Trail
A hard, 3.9-mile loop trail located in Griffith Park
Street parking only
Bring your own water and waste bags
The trail can be steep, slippery, and overgrown
Amazing views from the top
4. Escondido Falls Trail
A very popular hiking spot with a seasonal waterfall
A shady, moderate 3.7-mile out-and-back trail
Watch out for mud and multiple water crossings, especially after rain
Bring your own water and waste bags
Watch out for bikers and horses along this trail
5. Aliso Summit Trail
A 4-mile, moderate, out-and-back trail
Gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean
Street parking only
Bring your own water and waste bags
Tends to be less crowded early in the morning
6. Black Star Canyon Falls Trail
A challenging, 6.7-mile out-and-back trail that gets crowded fast
Rock scrambling and climbing are required on the second half of the trail
Small dogs may need help on the rocks
Protect your pup’s feet with hiking booties
Bring water and waste bags
7. Pratt, Foothills, and Fox Canyon Loop Trail
A moderate, 3.1-mile loop trail near the vacation destination of Ojai
No water or restrooms are available
Street parking only
Minimal shade—avoid hiking when it’s hot
Often has lots of bugs
8. Mission Creek Preserve
Wildlife preserve near Palm Springs with 17 miles of trails
Beautiful desert landscape
Parking, restrooms, water, and picnic areas are available
Rattlesnakes, black bears, and mountain lions inhabit the preserve
9. Potato Mountain Wilderness Trail
Moderate, 5.2-mile out-and-back trail with beautiful views
Limited parking at the trailhead
No facilities—bring your own water
Rocky terrain, but the trail is well-maintained.
Pack your used waste bags out—many people don’t
10. Big Horn Mine Trail
A moderate, 3.7-mile out-and-back trail in the Angeles National Forest
Limited parking is available
No water or restrooms
Not much shade on the trail
The trail is rocky and slippery in places—be careful
11. Sunset Trail
🗺️ Address:
📍Sunrise Hwy, Mt. Laguna, CA 91948
🕐 Open Times:
Dawn to dusk
💲 Cost:
Adventure Pass required to park in Cleveland National Forest– $5/day or $30/year
🐕 Off-Leash:
No
An 8.0-mile loop hike over relatively easy terrain
Multiple options to shorten the hike
Bring water and waste bags
You’ll share the trail with mountain bikers
You’ll travel through meadows, forests, and near a pond
12. Mount Woodson Trail
A moderate, 7.4-mile out-and-back trail near San Diego
Offers beautiful views and the famous Potato Chip rock formation
No shade or water and can get very hot
Best for more experienced hikers in hot weather
Great workout to help you and your dog get in shape for long-distance hikes
13. Volcon Mountain Trail
A moderate, 4.9-mile out-and-back trail near San Diego
Follows an old road near an abandoned mining town
Gorgeous views of mountains and the desert
Bring your own water
Can get windy at the top
Conclusion
The amenities at these 13 hiking trails in Southern California vary considerably. To be safe, always bring water and waste bags. Keep your dog on a leash except where posted for their own safety and to protect local wildlife. Southern California is home to many predators and snakes who pose a threat to your pup. Stay alert, be prepared, and always pay attention to the weather. These precautions can help you and your dog safely enjoy the beauty of Southern California.
Featured Image Credit: N K, Shutterstock
Written by
Elizabeth Gray is a lifelong lover of all creatures great and small. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge (literally–she has scars) with our readers. Elizabeth lives in Iowa with her family, including her two fur kids, Linnard, a husky mix and Algernon, the worldʻs most patient cat. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.…Read more
