Phoenix Lake in Ross delivers solid hiking with your dog, especially if you want something close to the Bay Area without the crowds you’d hit at more famous spots. The main loop around the lake runs about three miles and follows a well-maintained path that works fine for a casual afternoon walk. You’ll get decent views of the surrounding hills and greenery without anything too strenuous. The trail definitely gets busier on weekends, so if you can swing a weekday visit or arrive early on Saturdays, you’ll have a more peaceful experience and better luck with parking near the trailhead at Natalie Coffin Greene Park.

If your dog’s in good shape and you want more challenge, the Eldridge Grade trail heads up toward Mount Tamalpais and offers some real elevation gain with payoff views once you’re higher up. Either way, dogs need to stay leashed the entire time—no exceptions. That’s the trade-off for having the trails open to dogs at all, and it’s worth respecting since the park stays dog-friendly because most people follow that rule.

Bring way more water than you think you’ll need. The trails can feel pretty exposed in sections, especially on warm days, and both you and your dog will drink faster than expected. Water from the lake or streams isn’t safe to drink, so don’t count on refilling along the way. Grab a spot at the trailhead by turning onto Lagunitas Road from Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Ross and following it to the end. Pack out all waste bags too—keeps the place nice for everyone coming after you, which honestly matters when a place is as accessible as this one.