Nothing beats exploring the great outdoors with your four-legged best friend! Whether you’re looking for scenic mountain views, lush forests, or coastal paths, the U.S. is packed with dog-friendly hiking trails that offer fresh air, exercise, and bonding time with your pup. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best hiking trails across the country that welcome dogs, along with tips to ensure a safe and fun adventure.
1. Runyon Canyon – California
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🐾 Off-leash areas, panoramic views, and celebrity sightings
One of the most famous dog-friendly trails in the country, Runyon Canyon is a favorite among L.A. locals and their pups. With stunning views of the Hollywood Sign, the Pacific Ocean, and downtown L.A., this urban hike is perfect for those who want a mix of nature and cityscape. Bonus: There's an off-leash area where dogs can roam freely!
2. Acadia National Park – Maine
📍 Bar Harbor, ME
🐾 Dog-friendly national park with rugged coastal beauty
Unlike many national parks that have strict pet restrictions, Acadia National Park is a haven for dogs and their owners. Over 100 miles of hiking trails welcome leashed dogs, and the scenic Ocean Path Trail offers breathtaking views of the rocky Maine coastline. Don't forget to visit Jordan Pond for a peaceful stroll!
3. Red Rock Canyon – Nevada
📍 Las Vegas, NV
🐾 Desert beauty just outside the Vegas Strip
If you and your pup love desert landscapes, Red Rock Canyon is a must-visit. Located just outside Las Vegas, this park features numerous dog-friendly trails, including the easy yet stunning Calico Tanks Trail. Be sure to bring plenty of water, as the desert heat can be intense.
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee/North Carolina
📍 Gatlinburg, TN & Cherokee, NC
🐾 One of the most visited national parks with scenic walking trails
Although most national parks limit dogs on hiking trails, Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows dogs on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. Both are easy walks with stunning views, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
5. Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
📍 Luray, VA
🐾 Hundreds of miles of pet-friendly trails
Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks that allow dogs on almost all trails (over 480 miles!). The Stony Man Trail is a short, scenic hike with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, ideal for a dog-friendly adventure.
6. White Mountain National Forest – New Hampshire
📍 North Conway, NH
🐾 Perfect for adventurous pups who love climbing
If your dog enjoys a challenge, try hiking in the White Mountains. Trails like the Franconia Ridge Loop offer incredible views and rocky terrain for adventurous pups. Just be sure to check the weather—this area is known for rapid changes!
7. Mount Tamalpais State Park – California
📍 Marin County, CA
🐾 Coastal hikes with breathtaking ocean views
Just north of San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais (Mount Tam) offers dog-friendly trails with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. The easy-going Old Railroad Grade Fire Road is a popular choice for hikers with dogs.
8. Hanging Lake Trail – Colorado
📍 Glenwood Springs, CO
🐾 Waterfalls, turquoise waters, and mountain beauty
Colorado is a paradise for dog-loving hikers, and Hanging Lake Trail is one of its gems. This moderately difficult trail rewards you and your pup with stunning waterfalls and a crystal-clear lake at the top. Note: Be sure to check pet regulations before visiting.
9. Kootenai National Forest – Montana
📍 Libby, MT
🐾 Secluded trails with waterfalls and mountain views
For those looking for less crowded trails, Kootenai National Forest offers incredible scenery with fewer tourists. The Ross Creek Cedars Trail is an easy, dog-friendly hike through ancient cedar trees—perfect for a peaceful walk with your pup.
10. Oregon Coast Trail – Oregon
📍 Oregon Coast
🐾 Miles of dog-friendly beaches and forested trails
The Oregon Coast Trail offers endless opportunities for hiking with your dog. From Cannon Beach to Cape Perpetua, you and your pup can explore tide pools, sandy beaches, and scenic cliffs. Just be mindful of leash laws in certain areas.
Tips for Hiking With Your Dog
🐶 Check trail rules – Some trails require leashes, while others have off-leash areas.
💦 Bring enough water – Dogs dehydrate quickly, especially in warm weather.
🦴 Pack snacks – High-energy hikes call for some dog-friendly treats!
🩹 Carry a pet first-aid kit – You never know when minor injuries might happen.
☀️ Be mindful of weather – Hot pavement and extreme cold can be dangerous for your dog’s paws.
🐾 Practice Leave No Trace – Always clean up after your dog to keep trails clean for everyone.
Conclusion
Exploring the great outdoors with your pup is one of the most rewarding experiences! Whether you're trekking through mountain peaks, strolling along scenic coastlines, or navigating desert landscapes, these dog-friendly trails in the U.S. offer something for every adventure-loving pet owner. So leash up, pack your hiking essentials, and hit the trail with your best friend!