Top 10 Dog-Friendly Hikes in Oregon for 2025
There’s an admirable simplicity found in Oregon’s quintessential outdoorsy lifestyle: the fragrance of fresh pine in the air, the crunch of autumn leaves underneath hiking boots, and the delighted tail-wagging of our trusty canine companions. As we head into 2025, Oregon’s vast network of trails is still one of the safest and most fun ways to explore local landscapes, particularly when you’re in the company of your favorite four-legged friend.1. Powell Butte Nature Park, Portland
Perched in breezy East Portland, Powell Butte Nature Park offers a stunning panorama of Mount Hood to the east and downtown PDX to the west. This 611-acre natural area boasts trails that wind through orchards and forests, perfect for a leash-pulling beagle or a sprightly spaniel. The Mountain View Trail offers a refreshing mid-length trek – just remember to bag and dispose of pet waste, for the sake of the park and fellow hikers.2. Lucky Dog Loop, Livingston
Named aptly, Lucky Dog Loop at Livingston is a relatively flat, 3-mile trail dotted with serene forest clearings and babbling streams. Venture here during spring’s wildflower season when the trail edges burst with color – it’s a sight both you and your furry friend will appreciate. The open spaces are perfect for a bit of well-deserved off-leash frisbee action after the hike!3. Clear Lake, McKenzie River Area
Nestled in the Willamette National Forest, the Clear Lake loop offers 5 miles of tranquil forest and phenomenal views of this deep-blue volcanic lake. Dogs on leash are welcome, but beware – the trail can be a bit rocky, so it’s not ideal for pups with sensitive paws.
4. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, Portland
Oaks Bottom is Portland’s little urban oasis along the Willamette River. Its naturally occurring wetlands are a veritable sanctuary for local critters. The 3.8-mile loop trail is a popular place for birdwatchers, so keep those curious pups leashed during your wanderings.5. Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
Promising a refreshing coastal jaunt, numerous trails snake through the coastal forests near Cannon Beach. Consider tackling the Clatsop Loop Trail that winds around Ecola State Park, giving you stunning views of the Tillamook Lighthouse. Leashed dogs are welcome, but please remember to respect local wildlife and nesting coastal birds. Plus, don’t miss the famous Haystack Rock at sunset, it’s pretty spell-binding.6. Deschutes River Trail, Bend
There’s nothing like the Deschutes River Trail’s waterside hikes, dam trails, and breathtaking canyons. Dogs can be off-leash here, making it a delightful freedom haven for them, but they must remain under voice command to ensure they respect the area and other trail users. Factor in a pit stop for locally brewed beer at the famous Bend Brewing Company after your outing.7. Mount Pisgah, Eugene
The trails on Mount Pisgah near Eugene offer varying levels of difficulty and satisfaction to all hikers. The Summit Trail is a must-do, offering some of the best views of Willamette Valley’s farm country. Dogs have to be on a leash at all times here – but the vast expanses of vistas make the leash feel less restrictive!8. Rowena Plateau Trail, Columbia River Gorge
A real gem, the 2-mile Rowena Plateau Trail offers an enchanting landscape of wildflowers and breath-gasping panoramic views of Columbia River Gorge. Your pup will need to be on a leash, mainly due to the sheer drop-offs next to some parts of the trail. It’s all worth it for that photo at the Tom McCall Point though!9. Cape Lookout State Park, Tillamook
Cape Lookout State Park offers a mystifying swath of old-growth forest and a stunning spit of beach jutting into the Pacific Ocean. Dogs can use the trails, but must be kept under control, particularly near the beach to protect the sand-dwelling Snowy Plovers. It’s an inspiring ocean-front adventure for both you and your pet.10. Banks-Vernonia State Trail, Banks
Revitalized from an old railway line, this 21-mile trail offers a flat, well-maintained path for all; from leisurely walkers to eager scramblers. Your furry friend should remain leashed and keep to the right, allowing cyclists and joggers to pass safely.Exploring the deep crevasses, towering peaks, and serene valleys of Oregon’s hiking trails is an experience of a lifetime, especially when shared with a four-legged friend. So leash up, check those trail conditions one last time, and set out into the wild- the raw beauty of Oregon’s landscape awaits! Remember, every bit of care we show our trails helps preserve them for other adventurers- both two and four-legged- for years to come. Happy hiking, Oregon!