The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Penicuik And District
4.6
(933)
13,061
hikers
26
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Penicuik And District are primarily defined by the rolling hills and expansive reservoirs of the Pentland Hills Regional Park. The landscape features a mix of prominent hills, tranquil water features, and historic estates. Hikers can expect varied terrain, from challenging hill climbs to more gentle paths through wooded areas and along riverbanks.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Penicuik And District
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Penicuik House – Penicuik Tower loop…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(8)
187
hikers
5.82km
02:23
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(3)
58
hikers
6.21km
01:41
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
31
hikers
17.4km
05:32
550m
550m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(8)
190
hikers
5.15km
02:13
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
11.2km
03:00
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
0
0
The views from the side of Logan Burn here just below the Pinnacle are just simply super nice. You have the view of nearby Loganlee Reservoir to the northeast, and you are surrounded by the Pentland Hills on all sides. Nearby is also Logan Burn Waterfall. If you are going to have a rest somewhere, this is as good a place as any.
2
1
Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.
2
0
An old tower with a great view. Also used as a place for dogs to run around
0
0
Be mindful of walkers, children and dogs when they are out for a wander.
0
0
Loganlea Reservoir was completed in 1851. It is fed by the logan Burn and the water then flows into the larger Glencorse Reservoir. It's one of a series of reservoirs in the Pentland Hills built in the 1800s to provide water for the growing city of Edinburgh. Loganlea reservoir is well positioned within the Pentlands, you can only see the hills from its banks.
0
0
Good if you are coming by car. Not great if you are leaving/arriving by bike, it leads to a busy road without designated cycling space.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Penicuik And District?
There are over 25 dog-friendly hiking trails in Penicuik And District, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hill climbs. You'll find a diverse selection to suit various fitness levels for you and your canine companion.
Are there easy dog-friendly walks suitable for all abilities?
Yes, Penicuik And District offers several easy dog-friendly walks. A great option is the Penicuik House – Penicuik Tower loop from Penicuik, which is just over 6 km long and features gentle terrain through historic estates, perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in the area?
The terrain varies significantly, from gentle paths through historic estates like the Penicuik House Estate to more rugged, rolling hills within the Pentland Hills Regional Park. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained trails, woodland paths, and open moorland, with some routes featuring ascents to prominent peaks.
Are there any dog-friendly circular routes?
Many of the dog-friendly routes in Penicuik And District are circular. For example, the Penicuik Tower – Penicuik House Estate loop from Penicuik offers a moderate 11 km circular walk, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on these dog-friendly trails?
You and your dog can explore a variety of natural features and historical landmarks. Many trails offer views of picturesque reservoirs such as Glencorse Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir. You might also encounter historic sites like the ruins of Old Penicuik House and the Knights Law Tower. For panoramic views, routes often ascend hills like Turnhouse Hill and Carnethy Hill.
Are there any challenging dog-friendly hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Pentland Hills offer more strenuous options. The Turnhouse Hill – Carnethy Hill loop from Easter Howgate is a moderate 10.6 km hike with significant elevation gain, providing rewarding views from peaks like Carnethy Hill.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Penicuik And District?
The dog-friendly trails in Penicuik And District are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.66 out of 5 stars from over 880 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the stunning views, especially from the higher points in the Pentland Hills.
Are there dog-friendly walks that offer great viewpoints?
Absolutely. Many routes in the Pentland Hills provide spectacular vistas. For instance, the View of Turnhouse Hill – Turnhouse Hill loop from Easter Howgate offers excellent views, and from peaks like Allermuir Hill, you can often see Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.
Are there any dog-friendly routes near water features like rivers or reservoirs?
Yes, the region is dotted with reservoirs and the River North Esk, offering tranquil waterside walks. Trails around Glencorse Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir are popular choices, providing scenic backdrops for you and your dog.
Where are common starting points for dog-friendly hikes in the area?
Many popular hiking routes, including several dog-friendly options, often commence from the Flotterstone entrance to the Pentland Hills Regional Park. Other routes start directly from Penicuik or nearby villages like Easter Howgate, offering convenient access to various trails.
Are there any moderate dog-friendly hikes that are a bit longer?
For a longer moderate hike, consider the Penicuik Tower – Penicuik House loop from Penicuik. This route covers over 10 km and takes you through varied landscapes, including parts of the historic Penicuik House Estate, providing a good workout for both you and your dog.
Most popular routes around Penicuik And District
Most popular attractions around Penicuik And District
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
