The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in St. Louis County
5.0
(34)
989
hikers
10
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails in St. Louis County offer a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and significant waterways. The region features limestone bluffs along the Meramec River, providing scenic overlooks and varied terrain. Wooded areas are abundant, offering shaded paths and opportunities to experience the area's natural beauty.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in St. Louis County
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Superior Hiking Trail, a 314.0 miles (505.4 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
505km
139:53
8,950m
8,670m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
87.6km
24:19
1,640m
1,500m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
9
hikers
2.47km
00:44
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
3.96km
01:07
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This overlook is a fantastic spot to catch a glimpse of Lake Superior from an elevated vantage point. It's a great spot to take a break and capture a few memorable photos while enjoying this beautiful park.
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The Martin Road Trailhead marks the northern starting point of the Superior Hiking Trail's North Shore section, offering access to 94 backcountry campsites along a 260-mile stretch to the Canadian border. From here, the trail leads through diverse landscapes, including mixed forests and occasional ponds, providing a relatively flat and scenic route.
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Sucker River Campsite is a well-maintained, tranquil spot nestled in the forest along the Superior Hiking Trail, offering the soothing sounds of the river nearby. It offers a quiet, scenic overnight option, with a nearby water source and a back country latrine. The site is well-marked and accessible, making it a convenient stop for those on the Superior Hiking Trail.
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Here you can explore the westernmost point of the Great Lakes and look out across the mighty expanse of Lake Superior. There is a carriage road, paved bike path, and boardwalk that all run in parallel along the shore from Duluth to the northern lighthouse pier.
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This forested, urban park is built around Congdon Creek, and is a great destination in almost any season. There are multiple bridges so you can jog back and forth across the creek if you like, or link into the Superior Hiking Trail (which isn't only for hikers, despite the name) directly from this park and run for miles.
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This little park sits along an overlapping portion of the Superior Hiking Trail and the Lakewalk, which stretches for miles along Lake Superior's shoreline. It's a great spot to watch ships coming and going under the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge.
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Hartley Nature Center is a gateway to Hartley Park, a 660-acre oasis of nature in Duluth. Here you can explore 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing, or paddle on Hartley Pond and watch the beavers at work. You can also learn about the local flora and fauna at the nature center, or join one of their educational programs. Hartley Nature Center is a great place to connect with nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in St. Louis County?
Our guide features a selection of 10 dog-friendly hiking routes in St. Louis County, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These trails range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
What types of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in St. Louis County?
St. Louis County offers a diverse landscape for dog-friendly hikes. You'll find trails winding through lush forests, along scenic riverine bluffs, and past interesting rock formations. Many parks, like Castlewood State Park, feature terrain reminiscent of the Ozark hills, while others offer paths through wetlands and around lakes.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly trails perfect for a relaxed outing. For example, the Congdon Park Trail offers an easy 2.4 km hike. Many parks also feature shorter, less strenuous loops ideal for a leisurely walk with your dog.
Where can I find dog-friendly trails with scenic views in St. Louis County?
For breathtaking scenic views, consider areas with riverine bluffs. Castlewood State Park is renowned for its dramatic limestone bluffs overlooking the Meramec River, offering impressive vistas. The Al Foster Memorial Trail also provides river views, with some sections offering overlooks of the Meramec.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in St. Louis County?
Yes, many parks in St. Louis County offer dog-friendly loop trails. For instance, the Chester Park Trail Overlook loop from University of Minnesota Duluth is an easy 3.5 km option. Loop trails are great for varied scenery without retracing your steps.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in St. Louis County?
The dog-friendly trails in St. Louis County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the natural beauty, and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes with their dogs.
Can I find dog-friendly trails with opportunities to see wildlife?
Absolutely! Lone Elk Park is famous for its wildlife, including elk and bison, and offers trails like the White Buffalo Trail loop where you might spot animals. Other parks with diverse ecosystems, such as Route 66 State Park with its wetlands, also provide opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that are particularly good for fall foliage?
St. Louis County's diverse woodlands and forests make it an excellent destination for fall foliage. Areas like Rockwoods Reservation and Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, with their abundant greenery, transform into vibrant displays of color during autumn, offering picturesque walks with your dog.
What are some longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes in the area?
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure with their dog, Greensfelder County Park features trails like the Eagle Valley and Beulah Trail Loop, a moderate 10.2-mile route with notable elevation gains. Rockwoods Reservation also offers trails of varying lengths and difficulties through its hilly terrain.
Are there any natural attractions or points of interest along the dog-friendly trails?
Yes, St. Louis County's trails often lead to or pass by interesting natural features. You might encounter impressive riverine bluffs, unique rock formations, and diverse ecosystems. Highlights in the wider region include viewpoints like Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory and the scenic Vermilion Gorge.
Are there dog-friendly trails near lakes or water features?
Yes, several parks and conservation areas include wetlands and lakes, providing diverse scenery for your dog-friendly hike. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park is a popular spot with a large lake, and Route 66 State Park features wetlands and views of the historic Route 66 bridge. You can also explore areas around Lake Ore-Be-Gone.
Most popular routes in St. Louis County
Most popular attractions in St. Louis County
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