The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Santa Cruz
4.6
(47)
1,109
hikers
22
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails around Santa Cruz offer a diverse landscape, characterized by towering redwood forests, dramatic coastal bluffs, and varied ecosystems. The region features a network of paths winding through ancient redwood groves, along the Pacific coastline, and across rolling hills. This geographical mix provides a range of terrain suitable for different hiking preferences.
Best dog friendly hiking trails around Santa Cruz
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Santa Cruz Waterfront Loop, an easy 2.6 miles…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
50.9km
13:12
300m
300m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
hikers
4.26km
01:06
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
89
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
62
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
50
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Sand Plant Beach is a nice sandy beach in a deep rocky cove, surrounded by sandstone walls on three sides. The narrow mouth of the cove can trap seaweed along the waterline. From Old Cove Landing Trail a small footpath descends into the back of the beach. The main trail wraps around the back of the beach and continues to Fern Grotto Beach nearby, then to Wilder Beach and the Wilder Ranch visitor center parking lot.
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Fern Grotto Beach is a nice sandy beach in a deep rocky cove, surrounded by sandstone walls on all sides. The grotto is a shallow cave at the back of the beach with ferns draping down over the entrance. The mouth of the cove isn’t large. From Old Cove Landing Trail a small footpath descends into the back of Fern Grotto Beach. The main trail wraps around the back of the beach and continues to Sand Plant Beach to the north, or Wilder Beach to the south.
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While there are more formal memorials to the sport of surfing a little ways south at the Lighthouse and north at the official Surfer Memorial Sculpture, this spot is more personal. Here along West Cliff Drive is the famous surfing spot known as Steamer Lane. For all its fame and pleasure, surf conditions, accidents and bad luck exact a fatal toll. An informal memorial up on the cliff remembers surfers who have died.-It's next to a staircase leading down to the beach. The wooden plaques are all custom, hand-routed tributes by friends or family. The carved messages, lacking biographical details (because they are well-known locals?) are sometimes adorned with flower arrangements and small keepsakes along the fence. While these memorials of surfer deaths are also sad, there is a somewhat relaxed atmosphere at this spot. The surfers were doing what they loved, and knew the risks.
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Small protected cove below the cliffs, visible from the trail above.
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Great overlook at the south end of Santa Cruz beach overlooking the waterfront and the municipal pier. A trail and sidewalk continues parallel to West Cliff Drive to the south west.
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Stunning Natural Bridge Beach is known for its natural arches made of fine clay or mud rock, carved by time, water, and wind. The beach is also known for being home to a colony of monarch butterflies, with over 150,000 coming to live here for the winter. If you're lucky, you might even spot whales!
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Famous for its sea lions, the Santa Cruz Wharf was opened in 1914, and until it was damaged during a 2024 storm it was the longest pier on the west coast of the US.
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Heading out to the end of the pier around sunset is always a good choice. Bring your camera, have a quick stretch, then continue on your run.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Santa Cruz?
There are over 20 dog-friendly hiking trails around Santa Cruz, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. The majority, about 15, are rated as easy, with 6 moderate and 1 difficult option for more adventurous hikers.
What types of landscapes can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz offers a diverse range of landscapes for dog-friendly hikes. You can explore majestic redwood forests, walk along dramatic coastal bluffs with ocean views, or discover trails through varied ecosystems including oak and madrone-covered hills. Many trails combine these elements, providing a rich and varied experience.
Are there any easy, short dog-friendly walks suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, Santa Cruz has several easy and relatively short dog-friendly walks. For a pleasant stroll along the waterfront, consider the Santa Cruz Waterfront Loop, which is just over 4 km. Another accessible option is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk loop, also around 4.5 km, offering scenic views of the iconic boardwalk area.
Can I find dog-friendly trails with ocean views?
Absolutely! Many dog-friendly trails in Santa Cruz offer stunning ocean views. Parks like Wilder Ranch State Park feature miles of trails that wind along coastal bluffs, providing breathtaking vistas of Monterey Bay. The Santa Cruz Lighthouse – West Cliff Cycleway loop is another excellent choice for coastal scenery, taking you past the iconic lighthouse.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that go through redwood forests?
Yes, Santa Cruz is famous for its redwood forests, and some parks offer dog-friendly trails where you can experience these ancient giants. While specific trails may have restrictions, areas like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park provide opportunities to hike among redwoods, often on designated dog-friendly paths.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see on dog-friendly hikes?
Along dog-friendly routes, you can discover several natural features and landmarks. You might encounter the towering Fremont Tree or the impressive Cathedral Redwoods. Coastal walks often lead to beautiful spots like Natural Bridges State Beach, known for its rock arch, or various serene beaches such as Pleasure Point Beach and Twin Lakes State Beach.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that are particularly long or challenging?
For those seeking a longer and more challenging adventure with their dog, the Santa Cruz and Capitola Beach Ride is a difficult-rated route spanning over 50 km. This extensive trail offers a significant workout and a chance to explore a wider area with your canine companion.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails in Santa Cruz?
The dog-friendly trails in Santa Cruz are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from redwood groves to stunning ocean views, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience with their dogs. The variety of easy coastal walks and more challenging forest trails is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any dog-friendly trails near lakes or ponds?
Yes, you can find dog-friendly trails that offer views of lakes and ponds. For example, areas around Moran Lake Beach and Park or Antonelli Pond - Moore Creek Trail and Preserve provide peaceful settings for walks. Loch Lomond Recreation Area, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, also offers a tranquil environment for hiking around a reservoir.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz benefits from a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for dog-friendly hikes in any season. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. Summer is great for coastal walks, while winter can bring lush greenery to the redwood forests. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that are also suitable for families?
Many of the easy dog-friendly trails in Santa Cruz are also perfect for families. The shorter, flatter coastal loops like the Santa Cruz Waterfront Loop or the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk – Downtown Santa Cruz Mural loop are ideal for families with children and dogs, offering accessible paths and interesting sights without strenuous climbs.
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