The San Francisco Peninsula offers some of the Bay Area’s most scenic dog-friendly hiking, from coastal bluffs and redwood forests to rolling grasslands and ridge-top viewpoints. For Peninsula dog lovers, the options are plentiful — and many trails offer sweeping ocean views, shaded woodland paths or wide-open terrain perfect for energetic pups.

From Pacifica to Woodside, these Peninsula hikes welcome four-legged companions. Just remember to check leash rules before heading out and pack water for both you and your dog.

Here are some of the best places to hit the trail with your pup on the San Francisco Peninsula.

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Mori Point, Pacifica

Mori Point is one of the Peninsula’s most rewarding short hikes. Located at the southern end of Pacifica State Beach, the trail climbs a grassy bluff with dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Dogs are welcome on leash throughout the trail network. The climb to the top is short but moderately steep, and the reward is a panoramic vista of the coastline stretching north toward the Marin Headlands and south toward Montara Mountain.

Along the way you’ll pass wetlands, wildflower meadows and seasonal streams. The nearby Laguna Salada Trail provides a flatter option for a longer, easier stroll.

During winter and spring, keep an eye out for migrating gray whales offshore.

Trail highlights:

• Stunning coastal views
• Short but scenic climb
• Seasonal wildflowers and wetlands
  

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San Bruno Mountain State and County Park

Just south of San Francisco, San Bruno Mountain rises above the Peninsula’s urban landscape with miles of open grassland and sweeping Bay views. Despite its proximity to the city, the park feels surprisingly wild.

Dogs are allowed on leash on many of the park’s fire roads and trails. One popular option is the Summit Loop, which circles the mountain’s high point and provides expansive views of San Francisco, the East Bay and San Bruno.

Because most trails here are exposed, it’s best to hike early in the morning or on cooler days. The open terrain also makes this a great place for energetic dogs that enjoy longer walks.

Trail highlights:

• Wide fire roads ideal for hiking with dogs
• Bay and skyline views
• Excellent spring wildflowers
  

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Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, Redwood City

Pulgas Ridge is one of the Peninsula’s most dog-friendly preserves, thanks to its designated off-leash area. Located just west of Redwood City, the preserve offers quiet woodland trails and gently rolling terrain.

Dogs must be on leash in most of the preserve, but the large off-leash zone near the entrance allows pups to roam freely while you explore several interconnected trails.

The Cordilleras Trail and Blue Oak Trail combine to create a pleasant loop through oak woodland and shaded hillsides. This preserve is particularly popular with local dog owners for its peaceful atmosphere and manageable trail grades.

Trail highlights:

• Designated off-leash dog area
• Shaded oak woodland
• Moderate, dog-friendly trails
  

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Gray Whale Cove Trail to Montara Mountain

For adventurous dogs and experienced hikers, the climb toward Montara Mountain from Gray Whale Cove offers one of the Peninsula’s most dramatic coastal hikes.

The trail begins near Highway 1 and climbs steeply up the mountain, revealing spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean below. Dogs are allowed on leash, and while the trail can be challenging, the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

On clear days you can see miles of coastline, and raptors often soar above the cliffs. Bring plenty of water and be prepared for changing coastal weather.

Trail highlights:

• Sweeping ocean views
• Challenging climb for active dogs
• Wildlife sightings including hawks and falcons
  

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Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve, Redwood City

Edgewood Park is famous for its spring wildflower displays, but it’s also a beautiful year-round hiking destination on the Peninsula.

Dogs are allowed on leash on designated trails. Rolling hills and open grasslands provide excellent views across the Peninsula, and several loop options allow you to tailor the distance for your dog’s energy level.

Spring is especially spectacular when California poppies, lupine and other native wildflowers blanket the hillsides.

Trail highlights:

• Scenic grassland trails
• Exceptional spring wildflowers
• Multiple loop options for different distances
  

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Sawyer Camp Trail, San Mateo

For a more relaxed outing, Sawyer Camp Trail offers one of the Peninsula’s best dog-friendly walks. This paved multiuse path runs along the Crystal Springs Reservoir and is popular with walkers, cyclists and dog owners.

Dogs must remain on leash, but the wide trail and gentle grade make it an easy outing for dogs of all ages. The route follows the reservoir for several miles and offers beautiful water views along the way.

Early mornings are especially peaceful, and the area is a great place to spot birds and other wildlife.

Trail highlights:

• Easy paved trail
• Scenic reservoir views
• Great for senior dogs and casual walks
  

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Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, Portola Valley

Windy Hill lives up to its name, but the breezes often bring clear skies and spectacular views. Located near Portola Valley, this Midpeninsula preserve offers a variety of hiking options with dogs allowed on leash.

The Spring Ridge Trail and Anniversary Trail create a rewarding loop through open grassland and oak woodland. At the summit, hikers are treated to views stretching from the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Pacific Ocean.

Because of its elevation and exposure, Windy Hill can feel cooler than lower-elevation Peninsula trails.

Trail highlights:

• Expansive Peninsula views
• Rolling grasslands and oak woodland
• Several loop options
  

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Pillar Point Bluff, Half Moon Bay

For a coastal hike with easy terrain, Pillar Point Bluff near Half Moon Bay is a favorite among Peninsula dog walkers.

Dogs are welcome on leash along the bluff-top trail system overlooking the harbor and Pacific Ocean. The route is mostly flat and accessible, making it ideal for a casual outing.

During winter and spring, the bluff often bursts with wildflowers, and harbor seals are sometimes visible along the shoreline below.

Trail highlights:

• Easy coastal walk
• Harbor and ocean views
• Wildflowers and wildlife sightings
  

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Hiking with dogs on the peninsula: tips

Before hitting the trail, keep these tips in mind for a safe and enjoyable hike:

• Check leash rules before you go; many Peninsula parks require dogs to remain leashed
• Bring water and a collapsible bowl for your dog
• Watch for wildlife such as coyotes, deer and ground squirrels
• Avoid hiking during hot afternoons on exposed trails
• Pack waste bags and follow Leave No Trace principles
  

With its mix of coastal bluffs, forested preserves and panoramic ridge-top trails, the San Francisco Peninsula offers countless opportunities to explore the outdoors with your dog. Whether you’re looking for a quick neighborhood hike or a longer weekend adventure, there’s a trail waiting for you and your four-legged companion.

The Peninsula is also the springboard for some of the Bay Area’s best spring weekend trips. See our guide to dog-friendly spring getaways under two hours from the Bay Area for Half Moon Bay, Healdsburg, Calistoga, Bodega Bay, and Santa Cruz — all within a Friday-afternoon drive.