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16 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Washington (2023 Guide)
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Washington is home to hundreds of hiking trails that twist around mountains, forests, and lakes. The trails are home to various wildlife and beautiful views and are perfect places to explore with your dog.
There are a few places where pets aren’t allowed, but there are just as many areas where your dog can join you on your adventures. Remember to keep them on a 6-foot leash and abide by the “leave no trace” rule by picking up after yourself and your dog during your hikes. We hope these 16 dog-friendly hiking trails give you somewhere new to explore.
The 16 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Washington
1. Mailbox Peak Trail Loop
Two trails are available with varying difficulty and length
The trail ends at the Mailbox Peak Summit, where you can take a picture with the iconic mailbox
It’s a popular spot for hikers and dog walkers—Keep your dog leashed
You’ll need a day pass or Discovery Pass to park
The hike is a challenging one, but the final view is worth the effort
2. Heybrook Lookout Trailhead
A 1.9-mile long trail with a beautiful view at the end
Suitable for novice hikers but it is steep in places
A popular hiking spot with limited parking
There’s an old fire watch tower you can climb at the end
You’ll need plenty of water and snacks for you and your dog
3. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
Several trails to choose from to suit all hiking abilities
You’ll likely encounter plenty of wildlife, horses, and other hikers—Keep your dog leashed!
The trails are marked but take a map just in case
Weekends can get busy
Located right on the edge of Seattle
4. Upper Big Creek Loop Trail
June to October is the most popular time for visitors
A moderate, 4-mile hike with steep inclines in places
It’s a long way to the top—pack enough water for you and your dog
On clear days you can see Seattle in the distance
You’ll need a Discovery Pass to park
16. Gold Creek Trailhead
A paved loop trail that’s wheelchair and stroller accessible
You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass to use the parking lot
Quieter than the nearby Wildcat Trailhead
There are expansive and gorgeous views at the end of the hike
Suitable for children and older hikers
Conclusion
There are several hiking trails throughout Washington that are man-made and natural with a range of difficulties. If you’re looking for a great view for a doggy photo shoot or just want somewhere new to explore, a new trail is an excellent choice. You can stick to simple man-made trails if you’re a novice hiker or tackle some of the difficult trails we’ve listed to challenge your skills and give your dog some new places to sniff. Hopefully, this list will help you find your new favorite trail.
Nicole is the proud mom of 3 rescue fur babies, Baby, a Burmese cat; Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway; and Mac, a Lab/Mastiff. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship) and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts’ knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.…Read more
