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10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in the Bay Area You Can Visit in 2024

Elizabeth Gray

By Elizabeth Gray

woman taking her Vizsla dog for a hike or walk

The California Bay Area includes major cities like San Francisco and Oakland, as well as the home of the tech industry, Silicon Valley, and famous Napa Valley wineries. Whether you love sports, sightseeing, or wine tasting, the Bay Area has something for everyone. Those who prefer to enjoy the great outdoors with their dogs will be happy to learn that this hobby can also be accommodated! Here are the best dog-friendly hiking trails in the Bay Area you can visit this year.

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The 10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in the Bay Area

1. Land’s End Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 680 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121
🕐 Open Times: 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • 4-mile moderate loop trail in Golden Gate National Recreation Area
  • Multiple parking lots are located near the trail
  • Limited restrooms
  • Beautiful views of the ocean and Golden Gate Bridge
  • The trail can be muddy after rain

2. Cataract Falls Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 Bolinas-Fairfax Rd, Bolinas, CA 94924
🕐 Open Times: 24 hours
💲 Cost: Parking pass required in some locations, $8/day, or $60/year for county residents
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • A 2.8-mile out-and-back trail about 1 hour north of San Francisco
  • Street parking only
  • Portable toilet only
  • Steep trail with some narrow, slippery areas
  • Beautiful scenery with several waterfalls along the route

3. Rodeo Beach, Coastal, and Miwok Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 11050 Mitchell Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941
🕐 Open Times: 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • 2-mile moderate loop trail in Marin County
  • Parking, restrooms, and water fountains are available
  • Watch out for bikes, horses, and coyotes
  • Ocean views
  • Prepare for bugs, wind, and some steep stretches of the trail

4. Sweeney Ridge Trail via Mori Ridge

🗺️ Address: 📍 2000 CA-1, Pacifica, CA 94044
🕐 Open Times: Sunrise-sunset
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • 6-mile moderate out-and-back trail in Golden Gate National Recreation Area
  • Parking and a portable restroom are available
  • Steep trail with beautiful ocean views
  • Limited shade
  • Bring your own water and waste bags

5. French, Bridle, and Stream Trail Loop

🗺️ Address: 📍 8490 Skyline Blvd, Oakland, CA 94611
🕐 Open Times: 5 AM–10 PM
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • 3-mile moderate loop trail located near Oakland
  • Parking and restrooms are available
  • Mostly shaded trail with some steep areas
  • Horses and mountain bikers also use this trail
  • Bring plenty of water and enjoy the views

6. Devil’s Slide Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 Off Highway 1 between Pacifica and Montara, Pacifica, CA 94044
🕐 Open Times: Sunrise to sunset
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • Easy, paved, 2.8-mile out-and-back trail
  • Parking, restrooms, water, benches, and waste bags are available
  • Amazing ocean views
  • Accessible, kid, and stroller-friendly trail
  • The trail follows the path of an old, treacherous highwa

7. Maisie’s Peak via Parker Ranch Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 12467 Parker Ranch Ct, Saratoga, CA 95070
🕐 Open Times: 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Free
  • 4-mile out-and-back trail in Fremont Older Open Space Preserve
  • Parking can be challenging
  • Minimal shade—bring water and sunscreen
  • Can connect with other trails to make a loop
  • Beautiful views

8. Rocky Ridge View and Elderberry Loop Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 18120 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon, CA 94583
🕐 Open Times: 8 AM–7 PM
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • 7-mile moderate loop trail in the East Bay area
  • Street parking at the trailhead
  • Minimal shade—prepare for sun and windy conditions
  • Bring your own water and waste bags
  • Gorgeous mountain views

9. Fort Funston Coastal Trail

🗺️ Address: 📍 100 Fort Funston Rd, San Francisco, CA 94118
🕐 Open Times: 7 AM–9 PM
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • 2.0-mile easy loop trail, partly paved
  • A parking lot is available nearby
  • Bring your own water and waste bags
  • Dogs must be under voice control
  • One of the most popular trails for dogs in the Bay Area

10. Windy Hill Loop

🗺️ Address: 📍 18362-18492 CA-35, Portola Valley, CA 94028
🕐 Open Times: 8 AM–6 PM
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • 4-mile moderate loop trail with a mix of sun and shade
  • The parking lot fills up quickly—arrive early
  • Watch out for snakes
  • Some sections are steep and slippery
  • Take filled waste bags with you—no trash cans

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Conclusion

Before heading out to explore one of these 10 dog-friendly hiking trails in the Bay Area, be sure your pet is up to date on their shots and parasite prevention. Many of these hiking trails have limited amenities, so be safe and always pack your own water, snacks, and waste bags. Pick up after your dog and always respect local leash laws. Also, be alert for dangerous wildlife like snakes, mountain lions, and bears, and never let your dog chase or harass the creatures you encounter in the wild. Common sense and preparation will allow you to enjoy your Bay Area hike safely.


Featured Image Credit: aliaksei kruhlenia, Shutterstock

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