Hillcrest Open Space Preserve in Thousand Oaks is where you go when you want a real workout with your dog and actual payoff for the effort. The main loop combines the Hillcrest Ridge Trail and White Sage Trail into a 4½-mile route with roughly 1,300 feet of elevation gain and loss—this isn’t a casual stroll, so bring plenty of water for both of you.

The hike starts relatively gentle but the Hillcrest Ridge Trail section includes sustained climbs that’ll test your legs and your dog’s endurance. The upside is that those elevation gains deliver legitimate 360-degree views across Thousand Oaks and into the surrounding Ventura County landscape. On a clear day, you’re seeing actual distance here, not just the next ridge over.

The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, which matters when you’re navigating elevation changes. The loop design means you’re not retracing your steps on the way back, which keeps things interesting. The White Sage Trail section provides some relief from the steeper Hillcrest sections, so you’ll get a varied experience over the four-plus miles.

Shade is somewhat limited on the exposed ridges, so morning or late afternoon hikes work better, especially during warmer months. The preserve can get busy on weekends, so if you prefer quieter trails, a weekday visit makes a real difference. Dogs need to be under voice control throughout, and the terrain itself means your dog should be reasonably fit for this distance and elevation.

The views genuinely make the climbing worthwhile—you’re getting a sense of the broader geography of the area rather than just being immersed in chaparral. If your dog handles longer distances and elevation without issue, this delivers a satisfying few hours in the Ventura County foothills. Check the preserve’s website at cosf.org for current trail conditions and any seasonal closures before you head out.