Water Dog Lake Open Space in Belmont, San Mateo County, is a popular destination for hikers and their dogs. The trails wind through shaded bay area canyons with views of the surrounding San Francisco Bay Area, offering a mix of leisurely strolls and more challenging routes. All dogs must be kept on a leash throughout the open space. One feature that makes Water Dog Lake especially popular with dogs is that leashed dogs are welcome to take a refreshing dip in the pet-friendly pond at the end of the trail — a perfect reward after a good hike.
The most popular route is the John Brooks Trail and Lake Loop Trail, a 2.9-mile circuit with about 456 feet of elevation gain that earns consistently high ratings from hikers. The trail features wide paths, some steep sections, rock gardens, and off-camber curves as it winds through small, forested canyons that are home to deer and other wildlife. You’ll get decent elevation views of the bay along the way, and the shade from the forest canopy makes it comfortable even on warmer days.
For those looking for a longer outing, the Rambler, Ohlone, Chaparral, Berry, Lake, John Brooks, and Finch Loop stretches to roughly seven miles, offering a more extended exploration of the open space. This longer route lets you really settle into a rhythm and gives your dog plenty of opportunity to explore different terrain and forest patches.
Trailheads are conveniently located at Hallmark and Lake Road, at 2400 Lyall Way near Lake Road and Lyall, and at 2642 Carlmont Drive, giving you multiple access points depending on your starting location. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and along the way you’ll find shade, trash cans, portable restrooms, and drinking fountains — amenities that make the outing more comfortable for both you and your dog.
Whether you’re doing a quick loop around the lake or spending a full morning on the longer routes, you’ve got shade, elevation gains, and actual water access at the end. The combination makes this one of the more rewarding dog-friendly hikes on the San Mateo County Peninsula. There are three separate parking areas to choose from depending on which trailhead works best for your route.
