Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in Palomar Mountain, CA

Barker Valley Trail is a dog-friendly, moderately easy, 7.5 mile hike located in Cleveland National Forest in Palomar Mountain, CA, that will take about 4 hours to complete with Fido. On this trail you will actually descend on the way in and then ascend on the way out. The very slow and steady incline, allows for an inverse hike that isn't utterly exhausting. The trail can be hot throughout the year, and it is important to bring plenty of water along. Turn west from Highway 79 at a point 6.5 miles northwest of Warner Springs (mile 41.9 according to the roadside mileage markers). Continue up the mostly unpaved Palomar Divide Road for 7.8 miles to the Barker Valley Spur trailhead on the left (west) side. This road is subject to closure during and after bad weather. Also note that since the trailhead and the hiking route lie within national forest territory, you must post a National Forest Adventure Pass on your parked car.

Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve is a dog-friendly area in Escondido, CA. Your leashed pup is welcome to join you on the 11 miles of trails through the reserve. Along the way, you can stop off at one of the picturesque picnic spots for a bite to eat and enjoy a scenic mountain view. Dogs must remain on a hand-held leash no longer than six feet.

William Heise County Park is a dog-friendly recreation area in Julian, CA. This tranquil park is home to interpretive trails you can explore with your pooch. Pets are permitted if they are properly restrained and under the control of the owner. Dogs must be licensed, on a leash no longer than six feet and attended at all times. Pets are not allowed in or around the cabin area. Please note that there is a fee for parking, which is cash only.

Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on Piedras Pintadas Interpretive Trail, a pet-friendly hiking trail in San Diego, CA. This 3.7-mile, moderate trail takes about 1.5 hours to complete. Many people hike, bike and bird watch in this area, so you are likely to see other hikers during your visit.

Pacific Crest Trail to Eagle Rock is a dog-friendly, moderately easy, 5.5-mile hike in Warner Springs, CA. Located within the Cleveland National Forest, prepare to take 2.5 hours to complete this hike with Fido. This beautiful hike will allow you to enjoy some solitude. The terrain and climate vary wildly ranging from an area with shade trees to a desert wash. Your dog will delight in the soft ground, flowing water, and wildlife. This can be a very hot trail, especially in the summer.

Monserate Mountain Preserve in Fallbrook, CA, has a dog-friendly trail featuring a 1.5-mile climb to the summit for panoramic views of the ocean and mountains. Be sure to bring water for both you and Fido. Please note that it is too hot in the summer to bring a dog along. The trailhead is just east of I-15 at the Stewart Canyons and Pankey Road intersection. Leashed dogs are welcome on many of the Fallbrook Land Conservancy Preserves.

Felicita County Park is an expansive dog-friendly area in Escondido, CA. Leashed dogs are welcome at this spacious community park which offers various sports fields, tennis courts, two playgrounds, walking paths and a disc golf course. A minimal parking fee applies.

Volcan Mountain is the location of a trailhead for a number of pet-friendly trails near Julian, CA. Take Main Street north of the town to Farmers Road and then onto Volcan Mountain Preserve. There are no Rangers in the area and no fee. The main trail is a three-mile trip from the gateway to a ridge overlooking the historic town of Julian. Leashed dogs are permitted on the trails that set off from the artist-designed gateway to an expansive wilderness preserve.

Thomas Mountain Trail is a difficult, 12-mile hike in Mountain Center, CA. This trail is located within the San Bernardino National Forest and will take about 6 hours to complete with Fido. This exquisite trail offers some amazing views on a trail that offers plenty of solitude. You will ascend through four climate zones and plenty of shade on this steadily inclining trail.

Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve is a dog-friendly preserve in Julian, CA. The preserve is home to 15 miles of multi-use trails including two loops that traverse through unique habitats. Picnic tables and a rest area are available. For your safety, stay on trails and avoid playing in the creek. Carry plenty of water, dress in layers, and wear sunscreen and appropriate footwear. Overnight camping is not allowed. Leashed dogs are permitted on all of the trails.