Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Oregon for 2025
Hiking with your four-legged friend by your side is a joy unique to pet owners. Oregon, with its verdant forests, sprawling deserts, and shapely mountain peaks, offers various trails for a day out in nature with your dog. Knowing where to go is key to unleashing the ultimate Oregonian adventure. So, here is the guide to the best dog-friendly hikes in Oregon for 2025.1. Lower Macleay Trail to Pittock Mansion
Situated in Portland’s heart, Lower Macleay Trail to Pittock Mansion offers a manageable city hike that even the tiniest terriers can tackle. This trail takes you and your canine companion through Balch Creek Canyon, ending at the historic Pittock Mansion. From there, take in the unparalleled views of downtown Portland and Mt. Hood. Remember to keep dogs on leash, especially around the mansion grounds.2. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park, located in Central Oregon near Terrebonne, is a paradise for both climbers and hikers. The park has specific on-leash areas like the River Trail, which offers an easy, beautiful stroll along the Crooked River. Fido might even spot some native wildlife, such as river otters and mule deer!3. Eagle Creek Trail
As one of the Columbia Gorge’s premier hikes, Eagle Creek Trail offers a nature-infused challenge that your dog will love. Do be cautious, as the trail edges can be steep, so ensure that your dog is secure on a short leash. Please note that some more difficult sections have cable handrails for hikers’ safety.
4. Powell Butte Nature Park
This city park in Southeast Portland affords sweeping views of the metro area, Mt. Hood, and Mt. St. Helens. Powell Butte Nature Park is a gem offering over 9 miles of trails catering to dogs. The wide, grassy area near the visitor center is a perfect spot for playing fetch before or after your hike.5. Cape Falcon Trail
Oregon Coast trails are mostly dog-friendly and Cape Falcon Trail is no exception. This 5-mile trail in Oswald West State Park near Manzanita offers stunning coastal views perfect for both you and your furry friend to enjoy. But, remember the weather can change quickly on the coast, so bring a jacket for both you and your pup.6. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Another city of Portland treasure, the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, is a natural oasis in the bustling Sellwood neighborhood. Dogs are required to be leashed but will still enjoy the riverside trail, teeming with wildlife like frogs, ducks, and herons.7. Mount Pisgah Arboretum
Just outside Eugene you and your pup will find the mountainous paradise, Mount Pisgah Arboretum. This dog-friendly trail offers a perfect mid-length hike with breathtaking views of the Willamette River. Moreover, the Wildflower Festival in the spring is a must-experience event.8. Wahclella Falls Trail
Located in the Columbia River Gorge, Wahclella Falls Trail is one of the most accessible dog-friendly hikes in Oregon. An easy loop with a gradual elevation change, the trail is perfect for tentative pups or those not used to hiking. Remember, the area can get crowded, so it’s best to head out early.9. Skinner Butte Park
Take a quick hike up Skinner Butte Park in Eugene for an awesome panorama of the city. It’s a favorite among locals, featuring a sculpted columnar basalt climbing area that your dogs may take an interest in sniffing around. Pro tip: check out the historic columns at the top of the butte, which were part of Eugene’s old city hall.10. The Banks-Vernonia State Trail
Lastly, the Banks-Vernonia Trail is a must-visit for dog owners. This flat, paved path was once a railway track branching off Norther Pacific Railroad. Now, it’s the perfect hike for doggies of all shapes and sizes. The path stretches 21 miles, but you don’t have to do it all – feel free to explore just one of its six sections.And there you have it, ten of the best dog-friendly hikes in Oregon for 2025! So leash up your pooch, pack your hiking boots, and discover all the fantastic dog-friendly trails Oregon has to offer this year. Here’s to sharing memorable miles on the trail with our four-legged buddies. It’s time to create some paw-some adventures!