Bay Area Dog Friendly Hikes!

HALF MOON BAY COASTAL TRAIL, HALF MOON BAY

Miles: 3.7 Elevation Gain: 213 ft

Parking: Free lot at the trailhead.

The coastal trail runs right along the cliffs of the beach in Half Moon Bay. You can hike down to the beach to run on the sand or stay up top on the trail. During the weekend the trails will get very crowded and there are often dogs off leash. Be sure to keep an eye on your dog as you will share the trail with bikers as well. After getting some exercise in, stop by Sam’s Chowder House for lunch.

SANTA CRUZ WEST CLIFF DRIVE TO IT’S BEACH, SANTA CRUZ

Miles: 4 Elevation Gain: 68 ft

Parking: Paid lot at the pier.

Santa Cruz is known as a surfing beach, but there is also a dog beach. The beach is called It’s Beach. Starting from the pier, you can walk west cliff drive along the coast. You will walk past the surfer beach, be sure to stop and watch the surfers show off their skills. Continue walking and you will pass the surf museum. Right after the museum there is the dog beach. You have to hike down the staircase to get to the beach, so unfortunately it is not extremely accessible.

MISSION PEAK FROM OHLONE COLLEGE, FREMONT

Miles: 11.5 Elevation Gain: 2837 ft

Parking: Paid garage at Ohlone College near trailhead.

This is one of my favorite trails in the bay. You have great views of the entire bay area. Bring a jacket as it can get windy and chilly at the top. The last portion of the hike is relatively steep and can be crowded. There is a stop before the final summit with restrooms. Be sure to bring water for the length of the trail and elevation gain.

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