The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park
4.7
(164)
2,952
hikers
14
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park are found within a serene valley south of Half Moon Bay, characterized by a sensitive riparian corridor along Mills Creek. The landscape features mature eucalyptus groves, chaparral-covered hills, and an old ranch road that follows the creek. This area offers a tranquil environment, often protected from coastal winds and fog, with trails that are generally considered leisurely.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Dream trail loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 43 minutes to complete. This moderate route features varied terrain and elevation changes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Top of John Brooks Trail – Water Dog Lake loop from Waterdog Lake Open Space, a moderate 5.5 miles (8.8 km) path. This route offers views of the surrounding natural features and includes a significant elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Hiking loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Hiking in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park is defined by riparian corridors, eucalyptus groves, and chaparral-covered hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks along the creek to moderate routes with more elevation.
- The routes in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 160 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
5.0
(4)
119
hikers
9.33km
02:43
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
39
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21
hikers
5.04km
01:28
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.87km
01:43
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This 366-acre preserve offers several walking trails with nice shade, and an off-leash dog area. You can access the preserve right from the fringes of Redwood City.
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A nice pocket of multi-use, natural-surface trails. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on leash.
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At the top of the John Brooks Trail, you're treated to peaceful views of the surrounding San Francisco Peninsula Watershed.
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Water Dog Lake, also known as the John Brooks Memorial Open Space, is located in Belmont, California. The park features a network of trails open for hiking and mountain biking, but dogs must be kept on leash at all times.
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This trail is fantastic, winding through the beautiful forest, chaparral, and meadows in this beautiful park. The route switchbacks up the hillside, offering spectacular views of the canyon. Along the path, you'll find a bench, which is perfect for resting and taking in the stunning scenery.
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This trail is a short connector to the Harold Drake Trail. It offers beautiful bay views, and just below the trail, you may spot deer resting, who call this area home and travel the trails frequently. It’s a fantastic start to a great hike through Big Canyon Park.
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This lake is actually an obstructed stream, once dammed up to provide water to nearby Belmont. Now it's a fantastic recreation site, with several loops of trails that are good for hiking, running and biking.
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From Vista Point you can see the 4.7 km long hiking trail near San Carlos. The trail is generally considered easy and takes approximately 1 hour on average. It is a popular trail for bird watching, hiking and running, offering peace and relaxation at quiet times of the day. The trail is open all year round and can be visited at any time. Dogs should stay at home.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park?
There are 13 dog-friendly hiking trails in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion.
What is the general difficulty level of dog-friendly hikes in the park?
The dog-friendly trails in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park are predominantly easy to moderate. This guide features 9 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, making it accessible for various fitness levels and dog breeds.
Are there any easy dog-friendly loops for a shorter walk?
Yes, for an easy and relatively short loop, consider the Tank Trail Bay View – Harold Drake Trail loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve. It's about 3.5 km long and offers a pleasant walk for you and your dog.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails with my dog?
The park offers a diverse landscape. You can expect to hike along a sensitive riparian corridor next to Mills Creek, pass through mature eucalyptus groves, and see chaparral-covered hills. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as broad-handed moles, badgers, and coyotes.
Are there any historical landmarks to see while hiking with my dog?
Absolutely. The trails follow an old ranch road that leads to a 1930s bungalow and offers views of the historic Mills Barn. This rare English bank barn, dating back to the late 1800s, is maintained in a state of "arrested decay" and provides a unique glimpse into 19th-century ranching life. You might also spot an arched stone bridge showcasing ancient Italian masonry techniques.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly routes?
For a moderate challenge, you could explore the Dream trail loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, which spans over 9 km with some elevation gain. Another moderate option is the Top of John Brooks Trail – Water Dog Lake loop from Waterdog Lake Open Space, covering nearly 9 km.
What are the general dog rules for Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park?
While the guide focuses on dog-friendly trails, it's always best to check the official park regulations regarding dogs. Generally, dogs are required to be on a leash and owners are responsible for waste removal. For specific and up-to-date rules, please consult the California State Parks website: parks.ca.gov.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park?
The trails in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 168 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene environment, the historical elements, and the well-maintained paths suitable for walking with dogs.
Is Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park a good place for a family hike with a dog?
Yes, with 9 easy routes available, the park is well-suited for family outings with a dog. The trails along Mills Creek are generally considered leisurely, offering a pleasant experience for all ages. The historical features and diverse nature also provide engaging points of interest for families.
What is the best time of year to visit Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park with my dog?
The park is often described as being warmer and more protected from coastal winds and fog than nearby Half Moon Bay. This makes it a pleasant destination for hiking with your dog throughout much of the year. However, checking local weather conditions before your visit is always recommended.
Are there any circular dog-friendly walks in the park?
Yes, many of the featured dog-friendly routes are loops, providing a varied experience without retracing your steps. For example, the Hidden Canyon Park loop from Belmont is an easy 5.8 km circular trail perfect for a dog walk.
Most popular routes in Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park
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