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Dog-Friendly Hikes near San Francisco

Hikers of all kinds, two-legged and four-legged alike, will love these trails in the Bay Area.

Hiking, Trail Running Easy, Moderate, Difficult

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Description

With the number of dog owners in the Bay Area, it's a bit surprising that more of its trails aren't pet-friendly. Major outdoor destinations like Golden Gate National Recreation Area and the numerous state parks are very restrictive on dogs, so our four-legged hikers have trouble finding places to go. Luckily, there are tons of trails in the Bay Area, and plenty of them do allow dogs, you just have to know which ones. Here are a few of the best dog-friendly hikes near San Francisco.

Note that leash rules may be different in each place, so be sure to abide accordingly. Most parks with off-leash areas stipulate that dogs be under "sight and voice control," meaning they stay within sight and obey when called. A few parks also require an extra fee for doggy visitors, but it's never more than a few dollars. And no matter where you are, be sure to pick up after your pet and be courteous of others as always.

Routes included

Lands End Loop

Lands End Loop

On the Lands End Trail you'll stroll through historic Lands End, in a beautiful forest, atop high sea cliffs, with lofty views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Moderate Hiking

Distance
5.1 km
Ascent
156 m
Descent
156 m

Golden Gate Promenade

Golden Gate Promenade

Stroll through an urban park with many activities, and enjoy views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Easy Hiking

Distance
4.3 km
Ascent
57 m
Descent
5 m

Bolinas Ridge Trail North

Bolinas Ridge Trail North

Stroll along grassy, rolling hills flanked by redwood groves.

Moderate Hiking

Distance
17 km
Ascent
415 m
Descent
415 m

Cataract Falls from Alpine Lake

Cataract Falls from Alpine Lake

A bounty of waterfalls and a peaceful picnic area on Cataract Creek.

Difficult Hiking

Distance
4.5 km
Ascent
340 m
Descent
341 m

French Trail and West Ridge Loop

French Trail and West Ridge Loop

An escape to nature from the city, and a prime running loop in Redwood Regional Park.

Moderate Trail Running

Distance
12 km
Ascent
564 m
Descent
564 m

Fort Funston Beach Loop

Fort Funston Beach Loop

Family and dog-friendly loop featuring sea cliffs, wildflowers, a sandy beach, and historic war forts.

Moderate Hiking

Distance
2.6 km
Ascent
60 m
Descent
60 m

Wolf Ridge and Hill 88 Loop

Wolf Ridge and Hill 88 Loop

Amazing views of San Francisco and some interesting war relics near the Golden Gate Bridge.

Moderate Hiking

Distance
8.2 km
Ascent
331 m
Descent
331 m

Stevens Creek Trail

Stevens Creek Trail

A flat, easy and easily-alterable stroll through San Jose's suburbs

Easy Hiking

Distance
18 km
Ascent
80 m
Descent
80 m

Stonewall Panoramic Trail

Stonewall Panoramic Trail

A short but sharp hike to an excellent viewpoint

Moderate Hiking

Distance
2.9 km
Ascent
227 m
Descent
227 m
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Related guidebooks

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