Does your dog love exploring the great outdoors as much as you do? If you live in the vibrant city of Dallas and you're looking for new and exciting walking trails for dogs, you've come to the right place! We've put together a list of the best dog trails near Dallas, so you and your four-legged best friend can get out of the city and enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Lone Star State — then don't forget to treat them to a "spaw" day after! Here are our top picks for dog-friendly hikes in Dallas, sorted in alphabetical order.
The Bachman Lake Park Loop Trail is a beautiful 3.1-mile loop trail that winds its way around the lake. One of the best walking trails for dogs in Dallas, pet parents will appreciate the serenity of the lake and the wide-open spaces. The trail is mostly flat, so it's ideal for older dogs or those that need to take it easy.
That said, there’s also a hill at the back of the trail for anyone looking for a challenge. It's best to go early in the morning to enjoy some peace and quiet, or during the evening when it's cooler. Leashes are required and dogs should stay on the trails at all times. Make sure you bring plenty of water for your pup, as shade is quite limited along the trail. The parking lot can sometimes be crowded, so plan accordingly.
If you’re looking for places to take dogs hiking in Dallas, the Big Cedar Sunset Trail is a must-visit. This stunning, forested 2.6-mile loop is located just beside the picturesque Cedar Ridge Preserve. The trail is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy nature with your pup.
The terrain can be slightly challenging for those with older or less active dogs, and the foliage can be overgrown in places, making it slightly difficult to differentiate the trail from the rest of the park. The trail is used by both mountain bikers and hikers, so you'll need to pay attention to what's going on around you and your pup at all times. If you're looking to avoid the bikers, it's best to go in the evening.
The Boulder Park Trail is one of the best dog trails near Dallas. Popular amongst mountain bikers, hikers, and dogs alike, the 3.9-mile loop has a 259-foot elevation gain, making it ideal for those seeking an adventure. If you're looking for a quiet hike, this probably isn't the place for you. Be prepared to encounter plenty of other hikers and mountain bikers on the trail.
When hiking, it's best to start the loop counter-clockwise, so that you can see bikes coming and avoid any potential collisions. It can get very hot and dry here, so ensure you bring plenty of water for yourself and your pup. A word of caution: do your best to avoid the midday heat.
Located just a stone's throw from the Big Cedar Sunset Trail, the 5.4-mile Cedar Ridge Outer Loop Trail is one of the longer and slightly more challenging walking trails for dogs. The terrain consists of hard inclines and declines, so only come with a pup that can handle a bit of a climb.
Depending on the weather, muddy conditions could make the trail slippery. It's best to come prepared with appropriate footwear or even a walking stick to help you traverse the terrain. Cedar Ridge Outer Loop is beautiful to visit all year round, but if you're looking for a bit of peace and quiet, try coming during the week or early in the morning.
If you’re hiking with dogs near Dallas and you’re looking for an easy trail, Coombs Creek Trail is ideal. This busy trail is paved, making it a popular spot for walkers, runners, and bikers. Located next to Stevens Park Golf Course, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll with your pup on mostly flat terrain.
Although much of the trail is open space, there are some shady spots along the way to take a break and enjoy the scenery. Art installations are dotted along the path, so keep your eyes peeled. The trail is open any time, so you can visit at any hour of the day. Make sure you bring plenty of water and pick up after your pup to keep the trail clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Many walking trails for dogs can be quite short — but not this one. This trail takes an average of four hours to complete, so come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and supplies for you and your dog during your walk. Generally, it's not a busy spot, so you and your pup can enjoy the peace and quiet in a secluded part of town. If you have a more anxious personality, come with a friend instead of going solo to fully appreciate the remoteness.
The trail is paved, so those with mobility issues may find it easier to navigate. The terrain is mostly flat, apart from some short inclines and declines along the way. Linking directly with DART light rail stations at either end, it's easy to get there and back if you don't have a car. Visit in the morning or late evening for a cooler hike, as it can get quite hot around midday.
One of the easiest places to take dogs hiking on this list, the Dragonfly Trail is a great spot to take your pup for a quick stroll. The trail features plenty of shade, with mesquite trees lining the path, and lots of wildlife such as birds and wild deer to observe. The terrain is mostly flat, and it only takes about 11 minutes to complete, so it's perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
It's also popular with horse riders, so look out for them as well. Remember that Lake Arrowhead State Park charges a small fee to enter the park. It’s free for children, but anyone over 13 years old will be charged $4 per person unless they're part of an organized group booked in advance. For the best experience, visit the site early in the morning, as it can get crowded during peak season.
This short, easy trail is perfect for a quick afternoon stroll. Featuring art sculptures, Art Deco buildings, and fountains, there's plenty to see! It’s located right in the middle of the city, making it a beautiful spot to come and relax with your pup without going too far. Compared to some of the other walking trails for dogs in Dallas, the terrain is flat and the trail is well-maintained.
Watch out for the occasional cyclist, as the trail is popular with bike-riding locals taking a break from their hectic city lives. Stay a little later to take in the sunset views over the city. Nearby, there are also many restaurants, shops, and bars to explore if you're looking for a bite or drink after your walk.
This short but challenging route is perfect for dog walkers looking to squeeze in a bit of exercise, but don't have a lot of time. The trail takes about 30 mins to complete and offers plenty of shade and natural beauty. It can get muddy at times, and sometimes the trail may close, so keep an eye on the weather and plan accordingly. It's a popular spot, which can get busy during peak season, especially with mountain bikers. Just ensure you leave plenty of space for them to pass.
If you’re hiking with dogs near Dallas, this is a particularly fun spot for your pup to explore. There are plenty of birds and other wildlife around, so make sure they're on a leash and well-behaved. The trail also links directly to White Rock Lake Park, making it easy to continue your hike if you want. Come any time, but bring some bug spray if you plan on visiting during the summer months.
Katy Trail is very busy and it's easy to see why. Located in downtown Dallas, it offers an accessible spot to take your pup for a stroll without ever leaving the city. The trail is paved, which makes it popular with cyclists, rollerbladers, and runners. You won't escape the hustle and bustle of the city here, but if you like your trails a bit livelier, it's one of the best dog trails near Dallas.
It's also a great option for novice hikers. While the terrain is mostly flat, there are some small hills to make things a bit more interesting. Keep an eye out for nearby shops, bars, and restaurants — many places will allow dogs to come in and join their owners for a snack or drink. Visit during the week if you want peace and quiet, but the weekend is best to mingle with other locals and dog walkers.
Kiest Park Loop Trail is a great place to let your dog experience a bit of freedom. Unlike many of the other walking trails for dogs, your pup can go off-leash in some areas, as long as they remain under control at all times. Close to downtown Dallas, but not right in the middle of the city, this is a peaceful spot for you and your pup to explore. With plenty of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, you'll get a taste of nature and you may even spot some birds or local wildlife.
The trail is popular with locals, so you'll have plenty of company and lots to talk about with fellow pet parents. Visit any time during the year, but the best times to visit are from around April to September.
The Northaven trail follows a power line corridor north of the city. With ongoing development, it will eventually stretch 10 miles. While there might not be much to see on this urban trail, dog walkers with accessibility needs will appreciate its flat terrain and paved pathway.
The trail is well-maintained and there are plenty of benches along the way in case you need a break. It's easy to reach, with access points at both ends and a few public parking lots nearby. Visit during the week if you’re looking for some peace and quiet; on the weekend, you'll have plenty of company.
Located on the outskirts of Dallas, Oak Cliff Red Loop Trail takes you through a forest and offers a taste of nature. Hikers may find that the trail markings aren’t as clear as they could be, so it's best to download an offline map of the area before setting off. The walkway is heavily shaded thanks to an abundance of foliage, making it one of the best escapes from the heat of Texas summers for you and your dog.
Note that it can be moderately challenging for less experienced hikers because there are a few hills and plenty of routes to navigate. You'll forget your proximity to the city on this route, since there aren’t many signs of civilization out here. Just keep an eye out for mountain bikers — the trail is popular with them, although most are very conscientious of people with dogs on foot. Visit any time of the year but the trail is particularly beautiful in spring and summer.
If you’re looking for places to take dogs hiking near Dallas that won’t eat up your whole day, check out the Oak Cliff White Loop Trail. The sister hike to the Red Loop, this trail is shorter but with a similarly wooded landscape and a few challenging inclines. That said, it has less elevation than its counterpart, so this route is well-suited for those with a bit less experience.
You'll find plenty of wildlife in the forest, while the trees provide a welcomed respite from the hot Texas sun. Trail markings can be a bit confusing at times, but again it’s worth downloading an offline map just in case you get lost. Mountain bikers are common here, so don't forget to keep your pup leashed. The best times to visit are from April to September, so take plenty of water for both you and your pup during that time of year.
If you’re looking for places to take dogs hiking that will help you break a sweat in less than an hour, pay a visit to Piedmont Ridge. This short but beautiful trail is located in Gateway Park, outside downtown Dallas. Serene and peaceful, it's the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Although short, the Piedmont Ridge Trail still offers some elevation gain, with a few challenging inclines to test your stamina and that of your pup.
The trail is unmarked, so it can be a bit confusing at first if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Despite the lack of trail markings, you'll find that it's easy enough to follow by paying attention. The trail is surrounded by trees and offers great views of downtown Dallas in the distance. It’s a great afternoon escape any time of the year if you’re ever in the area.
Possumhaw Trail is a short but great option for dog walkers looking for a quick hike far from the noise of the city. Located in the stunning Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve, this well-marked and nicely maintained trail is subject to seasonal closures, so be sure to check in advance.
The trail takes hikers through woodlands, creeks, and gullies; offering plenty of places to explore with your pup while breathing in the clean, fresh air. For those looking to boost their fitness levels, there are plenty of steps and an abundance of routes that make for great agility training. Keep in mind that the trail can become quite muddy in wetter months, so you may want to avoid those times. Regardless of this, Possumhaw Trail is still one of the best dog trails near Dallas.
This urban trail is easy to reach, with plenty of parking available at the location. Thanks to a flat landscape and well-marked paths, it's ideal for beginner hikers who need more accessible walking trails for dogs. There are lots of benches, picnic tables, and even a playground en route, making it the perfect spot to bring a packed lunch and sit with your pup while enjoying the scenery.
Following a picturesque creek, there are waterfowl, ducks, and other wildlife to see. Just remember that the trail doesn't feature much shade, so make sure you and your pup have everything you need to survive the hot Texas summer months. Plan your visit for the early morning or evening to have the best time!
This quiet trail brings you down by the Trinity River and offers some great views of the scenic riverbank. Stunningly green and full of trees, the Texas Buckeye Trail is one of the most beautiful places to take dogs hiking near Dallas. Despite its somewhat isolated location, the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. With its short nature and minimal elevation gain, it’s an ideal spot for hikers looking for a relaxing walk with their pup.
The buckeye trees, which you can find at the end of the trail, are a beautiful sight in springtime and offer a great photo opportunity for you and your pup. Be aware that sometimes the trail can get quite buggy, so pack some bug spray for a trouble-free hike.
This is one of the longest trails on our list, taking an average of almost five hours to complete. Not for the faint of heart, it’s perfect for hikers with more stamina and those looking to take their pup on a longer journey. The trail follows the Trinity River, which makes for beautiful views of the surrounding forests. If you’re looking for off-leash places to take dogs hiking in Dallas, Trinity Forest Trail is one of the few spots where your dog can explore freely. However, it’s important to make sure you understand the trail regulations, as these can change quite often.
Keep an eye out for wild animals such as snakes, wild hogs, beavers, and raccoons while you're hiking, as they’re fairly common in this area. If you're planning a visit, it's better to start earlier in the day to beat the heat and make sure you have enough time to finish your hike before dark.
This picturesque city trail circles White Rock Lake and offers some stunning views of the lake and surrounding wildlife. The paths are mostly paved and wide, with plenty of benches for breaks. You and your pup can sit and watch the sunset over the lake, or spot some of the birds and animals that make their home in this area.
With plenty of parking available, the trail is easily accessible, providing a great way to get some exercise without going far from the city. Be aware that although there are some shaded areas, it can get quite hot in the summer months. Make sure you pack plenty of water and sunscreen for yourself and your pup. This is one of the more popular walking trails for dogs in Dallas, so you may want to visit in the early morning for a quieter, more peaceful walk.
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