The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Redwood City
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4,316
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Dog friendly hiking trails around Redwood City offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences, from bayfront paths to forested ridgelines. The region is characterized by open grasslands, rolling hills, and scenic views stretching from the San Francisco Bay to the Santa Cruz Mountains. Hikers can explore varied ecosystems, including wetland areas, oak woodlands, and redwood groves, providing a mix of terrain and elevation changes.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Redwood City
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is San Francisco Bay Trail: Redwood Shores Loop, a 7.1 miles (11.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 53 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers expansive bay views and opportunities to observe wetland ecosystems.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hiking loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, an easy 1.9 miles (3.1 km) path. This trail winds through shaded canyons and ridge-top paths, providing scenic views.
- Local hikers also love the Belmont Slough loop from Redwood Shores, a 3.1 miles (4.9 km) trail leading through bayfront open space, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Redwood City is defined by bay-side trails, open grasslands, and forested ridgelines. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate climbs.
- The routes in Redwood City are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 190 reviews. More than 3300 hikers have used komoot to explore Redwood City's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4
hikers
11.4km
02:53
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
hikers
5.04km
01:28
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
4.94km
01:15
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Belmont Slough is picturesque, with salt marshes filled with cordgrass and pickleweed. Along this lovely path, you can see plenty of herons and shorebirds, adding to the beauty of this part of the estuary.
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Belmont Slough is picturesque, with salt marshes filled with cordgrass and pickleweed. As you walk along this lovely path, you can see plenty of herons and shorebirds, adding to the beauty of this part of the estuary.
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This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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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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Vista Point offers an awesome perspective of Crystal Springs Reservoir and back into Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve. It's just outside the boundaries of the preserve and is completely paved and wheelchair accessible.
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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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Surrounded by levees due to the higher water level compared to the ground elevation, this area serves as a focal point for the surrounding housing area. It provides opportunities for various water activities, including boating, swimming, windsurfing, and offers stunning views of the waterfront. If you decide to fish, make sure you have the proper license to do so.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available around Redwood City?
Our guide features 5 carefully selected dog-friendly hiking trails around Redwood City, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion.
What types of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Redwood City?
Redwood City's dog-friendly trails offer a diverse range of terrain, from the flat, scenic shoreline paths along the San Francisco Bay Trail to shaded canyons and ridge-top paths with elevation changes in preserves like Pulgas Ridge. You'll find a mix of paved paths, dirt trails, and even some areas with towering redwoods.
Are there any easy dog-friendly hikes suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most of the dog-friendly hikes in this guide are considered easy. For example, the Hiking loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is an easy 3.1 km route, and the Belmont Slough loop from Redwood Shores offers a gentle 4.9 km walk. These are great options for a relaxed outing with your dog.
Where can I find dog-friendly trails with off-leash areas in Redwood City?
Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is notable for its 17.5-acre off-leash dog area, making it a fantastic choice for letting your dog roam freely. You can explore trails like the Hiking loop from Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve which starts within this preserve.
What are the best dog-friendly loop trails in Redwood City?
Redwood City offers several excellent dog-friendly loop trails. Consider the San Francisco Bay Trail: Redwood Shores Loop for a moderate 11.4 km experience with bay views, or the easier Belmont Slough – Oracle Lagoon loop from Bird Island, which is 6.7 km long.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on dog-friendly hikes in the area?
While hiking with your dog, you can encounter various natural features and landmarks. Many trails offer views of the San Francisco Bay and wetland ecosystems. You might also pass by the serene Pulgas Water Temple or enjoy the expansive views from Windy Hill Summit on some routes. The Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is another notable sight in the vicinity.
What is the best time of year to go dog-friendly hiking in Redwood City?
Redwood City benefits from a mild climate throughout the year, making it suitable for dog-friendly hiking in all seasons. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays, while fall offers comfortable temperatures. Even in winter, the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities.
Are there any longer dog-friendly routes for a more challenging hike?
For a longer, moderate dog-friendly hike, the San Francisco Bay Trail: Redwood Shores Loop covers over 11 km, offering a good distance for you and your dog to enjoy. While not highly challenging in elevation, its length provides a more extended outing.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the dog-friendly trails in Redwood City?
The dog-friendly trails around Redwood City are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from bay views to shaded paths, and the well-maintained trails that make for an enjoyable experience with their dogs.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that offer views of the San Francisco Bay?
Absolutely! Trails along the bayfront, such as the San Francisco Bay Trail: Redwood Shores Loop and the Bedwell Bayfront Park loop from North Fair Oaks, provide expansive views of the San Francisco Bay and its wetland ecosystems, perfect for a scenic walk with your dog.
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