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In San Diego and looking for the perfect trek for you and your pet? Whether you prefer forests, canyons, or lagoons, there’s something here for everyone. And, of course, dogs are welcome. But don’t forget to bring your camera. It’s going to be gorgeous! Check out the map below to learn more about each location, and scroll down for details on each unique hike.
9 Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near San Diego
- Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
- San Dieguito Lagoon
- Piedras Pintadas
- Batiquitos Lagoon
- Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
- Los Penasquitos Canyon
- Daley Ranch
- Highland Valley Trail
- Iron Mountain
1. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
- 11 miles of hiking, mountain biking and horse riding trails
- views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, Coronado Islands, the Laguna and San Bernardino mountain ranges, and Olivenhain Dam and Reservoir
- six overlooks throughout the Reserve, each with picnic tables and/or a shade structure
- dogs are allowed, but must be leashed
- you may see a coyote near the boardwalk, but rest assured that they tend not to approach anyone
2. San Dieguito Lagoon
- an easy riverside hike, appropriate for all levels
- large dirt parking lot on the east side of San Andres Drive, though street parking is usually available
- bird-watchers: bring your binoculars because this trail offers a premium view of the lagoon’s protected bird species
- dogs must be leashed
- check out the park’s Facebook page for special events and trail updates
3. Piedras Pintadas
- an easy 3.8-mile hike for all levels, near Escondido
- several access points to Lake Hodges
- link with the Bernardo Bay Trail if you and your pet are feeling ambitious
- dogs are allowed, but must be leashed
- stay alert for passing mountain bikers
4. Batiquitos Lagoon
- a short, tranquil hike for all skill levels
- one of the few remaining tidal wetlands in the southern U.S.
- plenty plant and animal life for the nature lover
- dogs are allowed but must be leashed
- out-and-back trail, accessible year-round
- take a break on one of many benches, and catch some shade on the ones that are covered
5. Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
- 3.7-mile easy hike
- moderately trafficked out and back trail, accessible year-round
- beautiful river views
- wheelchair and stroller friendly so good for the whole family
- dogs are allowed, but must be leashed
6. Los Penasquitos Canyon
- a mostly flat, 6.8-mile loop trail, for all skill levels
- don’t forget to stop and visit the waterfall
- flooding is common in the area, so check online before heading out
- dogs are allowed, and must be leashed
- leave early before it gets too hot, and bring plenty of water for you and your pet
7. Daley Ranch
- offers a variety of trails for all skill levels
- hike through a variety of plant and animal habitats, past giant granite boulders left by ancient volcanic eruptions
- dogs must be leashed
- watch out for horseback riders and mountain bikers
8. Highland Valley Trail
- an easy and scenic 3.7-mile hike for all levels
- out-and-back, elevation of 232 feet
- come early to beat the heat, or late enough to see the sun set
- dogs are allowed, but must be leashed
- watch out for horseback riders and mountain bikers
9. Iron Mountain
- a 5.2-mile moderate trail to panoramic views; on a clear day you can see the ocean
- start early and pack plenty of water
- out-and-back, 1,102 feet elevation
- dogs are allowed, but must be leashed
- if the parking lot is full, check for street parking
We hope you and your dog have a blast hitting the trails in San Diego!
More Dog-Friendly San Diego: Video
