10 Dog-Friendly Trails in San Diego to Visit in 2026

With mild temperatures and sunny skies almost year-round, San Diego is the perfect city for those who love spending time outdoors. Beach activities might be the first thing you associate with San Diego, but the city and surrounding area are also home to many excellent hiking spots you and your dog can enjoy. Here are 10 dog-friendly trails in San Diego you can visit this year.

The 10 Dog-Friendly Trails in San Diego

1. Cowles Mountain Trail

• A 3.0-mile, moderate out-and-back trail
• Mountain bikers also use this trail
• Street parking fills up quickly
• No shade—it gets hot
• Bring your own water and waste bags

2. Tecolote Canyon Trail

• A 6.7-mile, moderate out-and-back trail
• Multiple side trails branch out into the surrounding neighborhoods
• Partly shaded, and it can get hot
• Mountain bikers also use the trail
• Expect mud and creek crossings after rain

3. Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail

• A 6.8-mile, easy loop trail that follows a creek
• Mostly flat trail with some shade
• Mountain bikers and horses also use the trail
• Bring water and waste bags
• Trail often closes after rain due to flooding

4. Piedras Pintadas Trail

• An easy, 3.7-mile loop trail
• Limited shade
• Mountain bikers also use the trail
• Parking and portable restrooms are available
• Pack your own water and waste bags

5. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve

• Explore 11 miles of trails in this popular park
• Watch for horses and bikes
• Come early—the parking lot fills up quickly
• Some trails may require water crossings

6. Mount Woodson Trail

• A moderate, 7.4-mile out-and-back trail
• No shade—not recommended for inexperienced hikers in hot weather
• Look for the famous Potato Chip rock at the end
• Gorgeous views
• Pack plenty of water

7. Volcan Mountain Trail

• A moderate, 4.9-mile out-and-back trail
• Mix of sun and shade
• Beautiful mountain and desert views
• Can get windy at the peak of the mountain
• Watch out for rattlesnakes

8. Iron Mountain Trail

• A moderate, 5.9-mile out-and-back trail
• No shade—avoid hiking when it’s hot
• Pack plenty of water
• Rough terrain in some areas
• Long-range views from the peak on clear days

9. Daley Ranch

• Explore 25 miles of trails at this conservation area
• Pack your own water and waste bags
• Mountain bikers and horses also use the trails
• Off-trail exploring is forbidden—follow the rules
• Check the website before visiting for trail conditions and closures

10. Sunset Trail

• Mostly flat loop trail with good shade
• Can get muddy and flooded after rain
• May be covered with snow and ice in winter
• Interesting scenery

Conclusion

Before heading out to any of these 10 dog-friendly San Diego trails, make sure you are prepared for a safe day of hiking. Always keep your dog on a leash and pick up after them. Pack water, food, sun protection, first aid supplies, and hiking booties for your dog if you will be traveling over rough terrain. Avoid hiking in the heat of the day and stay alert for snakes, mountain lions, and other predators. With the proper gear, you and your dog can enjoy the gorgeous San Diego scenery as you hike.

• You might also be interested in: Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Iowa You Can Visit 

Featured Image Credit: Viktoriia Bu, Shutterstock