Los Angeles Dog Walking Guide: The Best Parks and Trails for You and Your Pup

Hey there, dog parents! Over the years, I have sniffed out some of the best trails and parks across Los Angeles—places where you can escape the noise, soak up stunning views, and enjoy quality time with your pup. Each of these spots has been personally sniffed out by me, ensuring they’re perfect for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and energy levels! Ready to shake up your walking routine? Let’s leash up and follow my lead!

Here's my Favorite Dog-Friendly Trails and Parks in Los Angeles

Runyon Canyon – Mulholland Entrance

Address : 7317 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 3.3 miles (loop)

Runyon Canyon is a classic LA trail and remains my favorite, primarily because of their off-leash hiking area. We prefer the Mulholland entrance over the Fuller Ave since it has more downhill, which makes it easier for me and the human. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy open trails and stunning views of Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign. There are also several water stations on the trail and benches where you can sit, rest, and soak in the view. 

Griffith Observatory – West Observatory Trail Loop

Address : 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 2.1 miles (loop)

This loop offers iconic views of LA and the Griffith Observatory while giving you and your pup space to roam. I recommend visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowd but if your schedule only allows weekends, try to go early mornings or late afternoons. While pups are not allowed on the Observatory, the flat grassy area in front of it is perfect for a quick snack break or a photo session.

Elysian Park's Branch Manager

Elysian Park – West Trail

Address: 1025 Elysian Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 2.3 miles (loop)

Elysian Park is one of LA’s oldest parks, offering a relaxing escape just minutes from downtown. Certain areas allow off-leash exploration but be cautious if hiking earlier or later in the day, as coyotes love to hang out just a few feet from the trails. The views of DTLA's skyline make it worth the visit, especially on a clear sunny day (which is basically every day). Bring some snacks and enjoy a relaxing morning at one of the picnic sites after your hike. 

L-R : @therealhousepupsofsandiego , Me, @clementine_the_mini_schnauzer , @lalaland_lucy , @simonsaysschnauzer and our hike leader @jack_in_jacktopia

Rancho Palos Verdes - Point Vicente to Pelican Grove

Address: 31550 Palos Verdes Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1.8 miles (out and back)

This seaside trail offers cliffside views and the chance to spot sea lions frolicking in the waves. We saw two on the rocks last time, so make sure you check them out. This is not a busy trail and I especially love exploring in the spring when the trail is lined with blooming wildflowers. Extend your hike to Nelson’s at Terranea Resort for a relaxing meal with panoramic ocean vistas. It’s the perfect way to end a scenic walk with your pup.

Eaton Canyon - Altadena

Address: 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 3.5 miles (out and back)

Eaton Canyon’s winter charm is hard to beat, especially if you want to see the waterfalls at their best. This hike is easy and enjoyable, with fewer crowds during the cooler months. Bring a light jacket and arrive early to snag a parking spot. If you find going up the rocks closer to the waterfall challenging, here’s the good news. There’s plenty of water on the stream which you and your pup can enjoy walking along without going up to the waterfalls. There are multiple trails and trailheads in this area but I always love starting at the Visitor's Center to the waterfalls.

Rosie’s Dog Beach

Address : 5000 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Open space

Rosie’s Dog Beach is perfect for pups who love a sandy adventure. While places like Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier and Malibu are considered "dog-friendly", those places will only allow pets on the boardwalk. You are not allowed to walk your pup on the sand or bring them into the water. Rosie's is truly a dog-friendly beach with a designated area where you can let your pup run free, chase tennis balls, and if they are adventurous enough, dive into the waves. It can get very busy in the summer but going there in spring and winter feels like having your own dog beach. Just don’t forget the towels for the ride home.

Los Angeles State Historic Park

Address : 1245 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1.2 miles (loop)

Located near Chinatown and Elysian park, this spot offers 32 acres of flat, paw-friendly path with sweeping views of the Downtown LA skyline. I love the mix of urban charm and open space here. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll with plenty of sniff spots and bonus points if you hit golden hour when the sun makes everything look extra dreamy. There’s also a casual dining spot, Cargo Shack, by the entrance that serves delicious burgers, hotdogs, and drinks, and the best part is that it’s pet-friendly. This park is one of the cleanest and most well-maintained parks in the LA area, so this is also the perfect place to bring your picnic mat and enjoy people-watching (this is what I love doing at parks) or have some snacks while you hang out with friends. On Thursdays, they have LA River Farmers' Market which is also dog-friendly and offers a great selection of fresh produce and some of the tastiest pastries and cookies. Please note, that this is a dog-friendly park and not a dog park so keep your pups on a leash and always carry a poop bag with you. Another thing to take note of, this park is open from 8:00 am - sunset and is closed to the public after hours.

Echo Park Lake

Address : 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1 mile (loop)

Echo Park Lake is a simple yet charming spot for a leisurely stroll. Take in the palm-lined paths, the fantastic water view with a fountain in the middle, and the occasional duck parade. There are plenty of food vendors in the park so make sure you bring some cash. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent one of the swan boats and pedal in the lake. It is pet-friendly, but make sure your pup can be trusted and not jump off in an attempt to chase the wildlife. Speaking of which, be careful of the geese. Do not approach or let your pup playfully chase them. Unless you want a gaggle of them attacking you. 

South Coast Botanic Garden – Dog Walking Days

Address : 26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

Last Sunday of Every Month

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 2 miles (varies)

A hidden oasis, South Coast Botanic Garden offers lush greenery and beautiful trails that welcome pups on designated dog-walking days every last Sunday of the month. The tranquil surroundings are perfect for a peaceful outing, and the variety of trails lets you explore without ever feeling rushed. Some areas are off-limits, such as the Koi pond and rose garden, but aside from that, there’s plenty to explore. There are water stations all throughout the garden, and you can bring food for a lovely picnic. They also offer a class called Class, Sit & Stay A While: Basic Tips to Socialize Your Pet regularly and lots of other seasonal events but my personal favorite is their Barktoberfest. Yes, pups showed up in dirndls and lederhosens and as you can see above, there's also a giant squirrel who matched my outfit.

La Brea Tar Pits and LACMA

Address : 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1–2 miles

Walk among fossils and historic statues while your pup explores the paths and grassy areas. The mammoths in tar pits make for a really cool backdrop. The lawn also connects to LACMA, where you can explore more sculptures, grab food, enjoy live entertainment, and take photos at the world-famous Urban Lights. When exploring the tar pits, keep curious noses away from the bubbling tar, and make sure your leashes are tight in case your pup spots the bunnies. There's a burger spot across the street called The Counter that offers customizable gourmet burgers and a pet-friendly patio.

Santa Monica Pier and Palisades Park

Address : 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 2–3 miles

Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier before heading up to Palisades Park for panoramic ocean views. The pier gets very crowded, especially on the weekends, so we prefer the open space at the park. Also, because, well, there are hundreds of squirrels there. Another great alternative is walking on the boardwalk or renting a dog-friendly bike. Just note that pups are not allowed on the sand.

Korean Friendship Bell & Wilder’s Addition Park

Address : 3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1–2 miles

With wide-open grass, sweeping ocean views, and the stunning Korean Friendship Bell, this is a peaceful escape for both pups and humans. If you like flying kites or enjoy watching them, this is one of our favorite spots.  Nearby, Wilder’s Addition Park offers coastal walking trails where you might spot sea lions basking on the rocks and very friendly squirrels begging for food from all the picnic-goers. Feeling more adventurous? Go down the staircase, let your pup enjoy the beach, and check out the tide pools. Rocks can be slippery and primarily covered in algae, so be extra careful. 

Hiking Tips for You and Your Dog

• Plan Ahead: Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for cooler temperatures and avoiding crowds.

• Pack the Essentials: Always bring water, poop bags, and a few treats for your pup (and maybe a snack for you!).

• Leave No Trace: Stick to the trails, clean up after your pup, and keep them from marking signage or structures.

• Stay Comfortable: Whether it’s a cozy sweater for colder days or sunscreen for sunny strolls, make sure you and your pup are ready for the weather.

And there you have it—my tried-and-true guide to the best dog-friendly trails and parks in LA. Whether you’re out for a casual stroll or an adventure-packed hike, these spots offer the perfect backdrop for making memories with your pup. Don’t just take my word for it—go explore, snap some photos, and share your experience by tagging me @sweetlifeofcalvin. I’d love to see where your paws take you!

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