Enjoy a hike through Johnson Ranch Open Space, a 3.7-mile loop that treats you and your leashed dog to breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills in San Luis Obispo, all conveniently located off the 101 Freeway. The trailhead sits at the turnout near South Higuera Street and Ontario Road, making it an easy stop if you’re passing through town or live nearby.

The main loop covers 3.7 miles with about 320 feet of elevation gain, so it’s moderate enough for most dogs in decent shape but not a killer workout. If you’re pressed for time, there’s a 2.5-mile shortcut that still offers plenty of scenic views without the full commitment. You’ll hike through open grassland with native oaks and shrubs, getting those rolling hill vistas the area is known for. The landscape here is typical Central Coast—golden in summer, green after winter rains—and it changes depending on the season.

What makes this loop particularly nice is the connection to Irish Hills Open Space, so you could potentially extend your outing if your dog is up for it. The trail is popular with mountain bikers as well as hikers, so you might encounter a few on weekends, though it’s usually pretty quiet on weekday mornings. The 242-acre preserve feels genuinely open and less crowded than some of the other popular dog hikes closer to downtown.

The main thing to remember is that dogs need to be leashed throughout, which makes sense given the wildlife in the area. Bring water for both you and your dog—there’s no water source on the trail itself, and that exposed grassland means limited shade on hot days. The trailhead parking is right at the road intersection, so it’s straightforward to find and easy to access.