Best places to walk your dog in LA
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Santa Monica Bluffs Trail
Location: Santa Monica
Round trip length: 1.8 miles
For a spectacular sunset walk, head over to the Santa Monica Bluffs Trail. You’ll be treated to an easy sandy path and unbeatable views of the Pacific. For a perfect moment, give your pup a sweet kiss on the snoot as you watch the sunset over the ocean.
Chandler Bike Path
Location: Burbank and NoHo
Round trip length: Up to you - max 6 miles
Enjoy a quiet suburbia on this lengthy greenway, featuring several poop stations (free bags in case you forget!). One block south of the path - between N Fairview and N Kenwood streets - you’ll find a myriad of dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, and shops (including a Porto’s!).
UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden
Location: Westwood
Round trip length: < 1 mile
This small, charming botanical garden makes a lovely place for a lazy stroll with your pup. Let your pup stop to smell the flowers, admire the blooms, and enjoy the shade. While entrance is free, note that the garden has opening hours ending at 5pm through November.
Elysian Park West Loop Trail
Location: Elysian Park
Round trip length: 2.4 miles
A natural oasis in the middle of the city, Elysian Park is more than just Dodger Stadium and the secret swing. This loop trail, while it does have some elevation gain, is still approachable for the non-hiker. On the way, snap a few pics of your pup with the wildflowers or in front of the view of the LA skyline.
Lacy Park
Location: San Marino
Round trip length: Up to you - max 1.3 miles
Expand your pup’s smellovision at the rose garden in Lacy Park. This beautiful and well-maintained park has paved paths that are very easy for walking with your pup. We recommend going on a weekday to avoid the entrance fee for non-residents of San Marino.
Riverside Trail and Ferndell Trail
Location: Griffith Park
Round trip length: 2.5 miles and < 1 mile
This list would be remiss without mention of the iconic Griffith Park! There are plenty of great spots to take your pup in Griffith - the two best dog-friendly trails are Riverside and Ferndell. For Riverside, follow the trail up to Vista Viewpoint for a city view (ok, ok - this one is technically a hike so wear good shoes). Be sure to get there early to snag a spot in the parking lot! Ferndell, on the other hand, is quite literally a walk in the park - relaxing and shaded, a great option for the low endurance pups.
Beverly Hills Garden Park
Location: Beverly Hills
Round trip length: Up to you - max 2.3 miles
Start your relaxing walk at the scenic Beverly Hills Garden Park - don’t miss the lily pond and sculptures! Make your way down the shaded dirt path parallel to Santa Monica Blvd, which stretches all the way down to the border of WeHo. This walk is perfect for your pup on a sunny day since it offers plenty of shade.
Redondo Beach Boardwalk
Location: Redondo Beach
Round trip length: 1 mile
Is there anything better than a boardwalk stroll along a gorgeous beach? Not if you’ve got your pup alongside you! Enjoy stunning views and the cool breeze off the ocean on this charming, dog-friendly boardwalk. Note: Dogs are not allowed on the pier.
Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area
Location: Encino
Round trip length: Up to you - max 6 miles
The expansive Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area is home to several paths great for you and your pup, along with its own off-leash dog park. For the most interesting walks, we recommend the trail circling Lake Balboa (1.3 miles) or the shaded trails at Balboa Sports Center (1.9 miles).
Charmlee Wilderness Park
Location: Malibu
Round trip length: Up to you - 2 miles for the best views
For the more adventurous walker, check out the hiking trails at Charmlee Wilderness Park. Although the trails are dirt, and may be a little overgrown in some places, it’s a pretty flat walk (although some of us may choose to call it a “hike”). Choose from a variety of interconnected trails offering wildflowers and gorgeous ocean views.
Rosie’s or Huntington Dog Beach
Location: Long Beach and Huntington Beach
Round trip length: Up to you - max 8 miles and 3 miles
If your pup plays well with others and will come when you call, check out one of the famous off-leash dog beaches down South. This heaven on earth for dogs and dog-lovers alike will be well worth the drive. Just remember to bring plenty of drinking water and a towel for the salt and sand your pup will inevitably be bringing home.
Silver Lake Reservoir Trail
Location: Silver Lake
Round trip length: Up to you
The 2.2-mile loop around Silver Lake Reservoir is a fun, easy trail perfect for you and your pup. It takes about 45 minutes, with lake views, friendly locals, and a fenced-in off-leash dog park right by the southeast corner. Dogs must be leashed on the path, but there’s plenty to explore nearby—coffee shops, snacks, and hangout spots all within walking distance. It’s a local favorite for sunshine, people-watching, and quality time with your four-legged bestie.
Paramount Ranch
Location: Agoura Hills
Round trip length: Up to you
Take a leashed stroll through movie history at Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills, where old Western sets meet easy hiking trails. Known for “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman” and “Westworld,” this scenic spot offers free parking, water fountains, and film nostalgia. While much of the Western Town was lost to fire, trails remain open during reconstruction. Watch for wildlife, oak trees, and scratchy grass—just keep your pup close and enjoy the quirky charm.
LA River Trail in Frogtown
Location: Frogtown
Round trip length: Up to you
Frogtown’s LA River Path is a hidden gem for dog walks—scenic, peaceful, and full of character. The paved West Bank Trail runs along the river, offering a relaxing stroll through native plants, murals, and mellow vibes. Start near Spoke Bicycle Café for a coffee, then explore the path with your pup on leash. With river views, artful surroundings, and a super dog-friendly community, it’s a great escape for both you and your four-legged friend.
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