Is your dog giving you that “I need a change of scenery” look again?
You know, the one, a little side-eye, a dramatic sigh, maybe some zoomies around the living room?
Yep, it’s time for a proper adventure. And not just another walk around the block. We’re talking woods, water, wide-open trails, and a whole lotta sniffing.
Luckily, Westchester is packed with hiking spots that are more than just dog-friendly. They’re dog-approved, tail-waggin’, muddy-paws-guaranteed playgrounds for your pup.
And after all that muddy fun? Don’t worry :) Westchester Dog Grooming spots are ready to get your trail buddy looking (and smelling) fresh again.
Join us! We are exploring the trails you and your pup will love, from lakeside loops to leafy forest strolls.
Let’s hit the trails! 🐶🌲✨
“The trail was long. I was muddy. I have zero regrets.” – Probably your dog would say :)
📍 Location: 6 Reservation Rd, Pound Ridge, NY
🎾 Best For: Adventurous dogs who love long walks, streams, and varied terrain
If dogs had a vote, Ward Pound Ridge would be elected Mayor of Trails. It’s dog hiking Westchester County’s largest park, covering over 4,000 acres with more than 35 miles of dog-welcoming hiking paths. That’s a lot of places to sniff.
Your pup is trotting through open meadows, plunging nose-first into a chilly stream, or prancing over crunchy fall leaves like it’s a red carpet premiere. The trails range from easy loops to full-on forest adventures, allowing dogs and their humans to pick a pace that fits.
If your dog is one of those canines who gets the zoomies after seeing a butterfly, this is the place.
And for you? It’s a total recharge. Tall trees, quiet woods, and just enough cell service to post that tail-wagging photo from the overlook.
Fun tip: Bring a packed lunch. There are open fields and picnic spots where your pup can nap while you snack. Just remember: dogs must stay on a leash (even when they give you the big pleading eyes).
Bonus: This is a great place to meet fellow dog parents. Think of it as a walking version of dog parks in Westchester County— but with better air quality and fewer muddy tennis balls.
Idea: If you're into dog hiking in Westchester County or looking for a little dog camping in Westchester County adventure, this park offers overnight options at its rustic camping shelters. Just check ahead for seasonal availability.
Trail Type: Dirt, forested, some rocky paths Distance Options: 1-mile loops to 6+ mile hikes
Doggie Perk: Streams to splash in, ideal for pups who love water. Dog swimming in Westchester County will quickly become their favorite weekend hobby.
Hot tip: bring treats. Your dog deserves to pose like royalty next to Swan Lake.
📍 Location: 125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville, NY
🎨 Best For: Elegant pups who appreciate smooth paths and scenic selfies
Some trails are wild and rugged.
Rockefeller is not one of them. This is where your dog takes their morning walk with a side of glamour. The carriage roads, initially designed for horse-drawn strolls by the Rockefeller family, are now the go-to walking lanes for local dog lovers.
Your pup will love the crushed stone paths — gentle on the paws, easy on older dogs, and surprisingly photogenic.
The surrounding landscape includes open fields, wooden bridges, reflective ponds, and stretches of shaded forest.
This is the jackpot for pet parents who enjoy a little aesthetic with their exercise.
Got a pup that hates noisy, chaotic parks? You’re in luck. This preserve is calm, clean, and big enough to find your peaceful path. It’s the place where you and your dog can hear your own footsteps (and theirs, too, obviously).
Perfect for small dogs who can’t handle steep climbs but still want to feel like they’ve conquered nature. Also ideal for dog hiking in Westchester County during hotter months — there’s enough tree cover to keep things cool.
Photo Moment Alert: Snap a shot at Swan Lake. Trust us, your dog will look majestic even with their tongue out and a slobbery tennis ball in the frame.
Local Love: Nearby Pleasantville is full of dog-welcoming cafes with outdoor seating. Stop by Jean-Jacques Bakery for a croissant and give your pup a water break and a shady rest.
Pet Owner Tip: Post-hike and looking for the best dog groomers in Westchester, NY? Check out Wags and Whiskers Spa in Tarrytown. They’ll have your dusty explorer looking fresh in no time.
Trail Type: Crushed stone carriage paths Distance Options: Mix-and-match loops from 0.5 to 10 miles Doggie Perk: Low-traffic paths, gentle elevation, and wide lanes for easy passing.
📍 Location: 1600 Spring Valley Rd, Ossining, NY
🦆 Best For: Curious canines who love water views, nature vibes, and birdwatching
Teatown is a favorite among locals for a reason — it’s quiet, woodsy, and just the right kind of wild. With 15 miles of trails, there’s no shortage of paths to follow and logs to leap. The main lake loop is an easy intro for pups new to the hiking scene.
Dogs here seem to slow down and sniff everything instinctively. That’s the magic of Teatown: the mix of forest, lake, and swampy marshland offers a sensory playground for pups.
Heads-up: This place attracts wildlife. Birds, frogs, and the occasional deer keep dogs wide-eyed and ready for adventure. Keep the leash handy and your grip strong — some noses have a mind.
Shade lovers rejoice. Many of Teatown’s trails are covered by trees, making it one of the better warm-weather spots for dog hiking in Westchester County.
Tip for Parents: The Education Center is fun for kids, and there are benches along the water if you need a breather (or a quick snack).
Stat-Ready Mention: Teatown Lake Reservation welcomes over 25,000 hikers and visitors annually, including families and dog owners looking for a scenic, nature-rich trail system.
Nearby Grooming Win: Check out Bark & Purr Mobile Spa for a post-hike freshen-up. They service Ossining and nearby towns.
Trail Type: Wooded, narrow, moderately rocky Distance Options: Short 1-mile walks to full loops Doggie Perk: Wildlife galore and frog-spotting fun
📍 Location: 435 Welcher Ave, Peekskill, NY
🏜 Best For: High-energy dogs who need to run out the zoomies
Blue Mountain is their training ground if your dog treats every walk like a mission. With 1,600 acres and nearly 20 miles of trails, it offers big climbs, steep descents, and forest paths that make your average dog park look like a backyard.
Expect rugged trails, tons of elevation change, and moments when you and your pup pause to pant. But hey — those views. They’re worth every hill.
Less crowded than other spots, Blue Mountain is perfect for dogs who do best with fewer distractions (or, you know, don’t play well with "Steve, the overly friendly lab").
Bring your good leash. The kind with a grip. You might need it.
Incredible Bonus: In colder months, parts of the park become popular for light snow hiking and scenic winter walks.
Grooming Pit Stop: Peekskill Dog Wash is a quick drive away and perfect for cleaning those mud-caked paws.
Trail Type: Forested, rocky, hilly Distance Options: 1.5-mile to 7-mile loops Doggie Perk: Energy-draining terrain = quiet nap car ride home
📍 Location: 1 Bronx River Pkwy, Valhalla, NY
🚶 Best For: Social pups and humans who like a little pavement with their trees
This one’s for the city dogs with weekend wanderlust. Start at Kensico Dam Plaza, where the sight alone will have your dog looking up like, "Whoa." From there, hop on the Bronx River Parkway Trail, a paved multi-use path stretching over 13 miles.
It mixes urban and natural — runners, bikers, baby strollers, and many dogs. It’s also an excellent place for pups who enjoy attention. You’ll get smiles. You’ll get stopped. There will be compliments.
Flat paths make this great for older dogs or those recovering from injuries.
Water fountains along the way help, but pack extra water in the warmer months. The pavement can heat up quickly.
Want variety? Hike up the dam steps for a view, then stroll into the park's open green spaces. Some families bring picnic blankets and spend the whole afternoon there.
Bonus for Winter Hikes: The plaza is open year-round and usually well-plowed, making it a go-to when other trails are too icy.
Need a Groomer Nearby? Try Rover's Retreat Pet Spa in White Plains. Quick in-and-out services are available.
Trail Type: Paved multi-use path Distance Options: 1 to 13 miles out-and-back Doggie Perk: Social stimulation and a giant dam to climb
If your dog had a bucket list, every one of these trails would be on it. From lazy loops to uphill quests, Westchester is a canine-approved playground with lakes to leap into, squirrels not to catch, and delicious leaves.
It doesn’t matter if you're a weekend hiker or a daily explorer; these dog-friendly spots are about bonding.
Barkbus will be there to let your pup be their happiest, muddiest, most tail-wagging self.
Our aim is to make grooming stress-free for dogs and easy for pet parents. No more scary trips to the salon, just a calm, cage-free experience outside your home.
We will provide a warm, filtered hydro-jet bath using all-natural shampoos and conditioners.
Consider that our specialists will offer nail trimming and filing, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and anal gland expression if needed—no extra cost.
If this is what you are looking for, let’s talk.
Book a session with Barkbus now!
1. Are there off-leash hiking trails in Westchester County?
Most trails require dogs to be leashed, especially in public parks and preserves. While there are some off-leash dog parks nearby, dog hiking Westchester County is typically a leashed adventure to protect wildlife and ensure trail safety.
2. What should I bring for a dog-friendly hike in Westchester?
For dog hiking Westchester County, bring a leash, poop bags, water for both of you, snacks, and a towel (many trails have streams or lakes). Tick protection is also important.
3. Can small dogs handle the hiking trails in Westchester?
Yes! Many trails are beginner-friendly and perfect for small breeds. Dog hiking Westchester County includes short loops like Teatown’s lake trail or paved paths like Bronx River Parkway.
4. Are there any trails with water access for dogs to swim?
Absolutely. Trails at Ward Pound Ridge, Teatown, and Blue Mountain feature streams and lakes. Dog hiking Westchester County often comes with splash zones — just pack a towel!
5. Is dog camping allowed in Westchester parks?
Yes, in some locations like Ward Pound Ridge. It’s a great combo with dog hiking Westchester County — hike all day, camp under the stars, and cuddle up with your muddy pup.
