10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Oregon (With Pictures)

Owning a dog is a great opportunity to check out a few of your local hiking trails. Oregon is one of the pet-friendliest states in the U.S.A., and there are many places with beautiful views to explore with your dog. You’ll need a 6-foot leash, sturdy shoes, water, and plenty of snacks—as well as dog waste bags—to ensure that your adventures are fun and safe and that you leave the trail as you found it.

Here are 10 dog-friendly hiking trails in Oregon, so you can explore someplace new during your next walk!

The 10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Oregon

1. Tryon Creek State Natural Area

• 658 acres of wooded land, hiking trails, bicycle paths, and other activities
• There are both easy and tough trails to suit your skill level
• You might encounter horses and cyclists on the trails, so make sure your dog is leashed at all times
• Located only 15 minutes from downtown Portland
• Can get incredibly busy on weekends, so it might be difficult to park

2. Green Lakes Trailhead

• Breathtaking views of the lakes and surrounding mountains
• A permit is needed to park and use the trail; annual passes can be purchased online, and day passes can be purchased in the parking area
• It’s a popular hiking spot and can get crowded during holidays and weekends
• There are mosquitoes, so remember to bring bug spray for you and your dog
• Make sure to respect your fellow hikers by keeping your dog leashed

3. Sandy River Delta

• Maintained by volunteers, so remember to pick up after yourself and your dog to help out
• There is an off-leash area, but keep your dog leashed in the rest of the park to respect the wildlife and other hikers
• Parking can be a challenge on weekends and requires a $5 fee
• The off-leash area provides plenty of space for dogs to swim, run around, and play with friends
• Mostly flat hiking trails for beginners or people who want a leisurely stroll

4. Deschutes River Trail

• Located in Farewell Bend Park, the walking trail follows the Deschutes River
• Feels like you’re on a hike outside of town rather than inside a city
• The trail features history plaques so you can learn more about the area
• It gets busy during summer because it’s a popular spot for water activities like swimming or kayaking
• Remember to keep your dog leashed and clean up after them as you walk; there are dog waste bags and trash cans at the start of the trail

5. Silver Falls State Park

• Dogs need to be kept on a 6-foot leash throughout the park
• There is an off-leash area in South Falls Day Use Area
• For safety reasons, dogs aren’t allowed on the Canyon Trail or any of the connecting trails of Maple Ridge Trail, Twin Falls Trail, and Winter Trail
• Visitors need a day pass, which can be purchased at the park; annual passes are available online
• An easy but beautiful hiking trail with picnic spots and views of the waterfalls

6. Molalla River State Park

• There is an off-leash area for your dog, but they need to be on a 6-foot leash everywhere else in the park
• Plenty of restrooms and picnic areas are on-site for visitors
• A short, flat, and easy-walking trail for novice hikers
• Can get busy, but it’s usually one of the less crowded parks in Oregon
• A great spot for doing doggy photo shoots, playing fetch, and swimming

7. Croisan Creek Trail

• Only part of the path is paved and can be muddy; wear sturdy shoes and bring a towel
• A simple, quiet, and short trail for novice hikers
• The path is narrow in places, so keep your dog on a 6-foot leash, and pick up after them
• Located in a residential area just south of Salem
• Dog waste bags are provided at the end of the trail

8. Minto-Brown Island Park

• 898 acres of paved trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and an off-leash dog park
• Dogs are only allowed off-leash in the designated field, so use a 6-foot leash on the trails
• There are paved and dirt trails that are wooded or open to suit your preferences; be aware that a few of the paved paths can get too hot for dogs in summer
• Beautiful views of the river and plenty of spots to watch the sunset
• Plenty of parking is available and it rarely gets crowded

9. Smith Rock State Park

• Mostly open trails with little shade, so bring plenty of water, and in the summer, visit during the cooler hours
• A popular spot for hikers and rock climbers
• You’ll need to purchase a day pass at the park when you visit
• Dogs need to be kept on a 6-foot leash everywhere in the park—there are no off-leash areas
• Some of the trails are steep and slippery; your dog might not have trouble but you’ll likely need good shoes

10. Tamanawas Falls Trailhead

• You’ll need to purchase a day pass to use the trails
• A great hike for challenging yourself and your dog; you’ll need water and snacks and to take your time
• Beautiful views of the waterfall with plenty of places to enjoy a picnic
• The park does get busy, and parking can be difficult later in the day
• There is no off-leash area, so make sure your dog is always on a 6-foot leash

Conclusion

Walking around your neighborhood and visiting your local dog park are always fun, but sometimes, it’s nice to get away from urban streets. Oregon is filled with hiking trails, and provided that they are leashed, your dog is more than welcome to join you on your treks. If you haven’t visited any of your local hiking trails, try starting with one from this list to help you explore the beauty of the Beaver State.

See Also: 

• 8 Dog-Friendly Hikes in Colorado

• 10 Dog-Friendly Trails in Orange County, CA

Featured Image Credit: thatrogersfamily, Shutterstock