Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

16 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Washington (2025 Guide)

Hiking with dog, Exploring Washington State

Washington is home to hundreds of hiking trails that twist around mountains, forests, and lakes. The trails are home to various wildlife and beautiful views and are perfect places to explore with your dog.

There are a few places where pets aren’t allowed, but there are just as many areas where your dog can join you on your adventures. Remember to keep them on a 6-foot leash and abide by the “leave no trace” rule by picking up after yourself and your dog during your hikes.

We hope these 16 dog-friendly hiking trails give you somewhere new to explore.

divider single dog paw oct 2024

The 16 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Washington

1. Mailbox Peak Trail Loop

️ Address: Mailbox Peak Trail, North Bend, WA 98045
Open Times: Dawn to dusk, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • Two trails are available with varying difficulty and length
  • The trail ends at the Mailbox Peak Summit, where you can take a picture with the iconic mailbox
  • It’s a popular spot for hikers and dog walkers—Keep your dog leashed
  • You’ll need a day pass or Discovery Pass to park
  • The hike is a challenging one, but the final view is worth the effort

2. Heybrook Lookout Trailhead

️ Address: 313 9th St, Gold Bar, WA 98251
Open Times: 24/7 all year
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • A 1.9-mile long trail with a beautiful view at the end
  • Suitable for novice hikers but it is steep in places
  • A popular hiking spot with limited parking
  • There’s an old fire watch tower you can climb at the end
  • You’ll need plenty of water and snacks for you and your dog

3. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

️ Address: Wilderness Peak Trail, Renton, WA 98059
Open Times: 6 AM–10 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • Several trails to choose from to suit all hiking abilities
  • You’ll likely encounter plenty of wildlife, horses, and other hikers—Keep your dog leashed!
  • The trails are marked but take a map just in case
  • Weekends can get busy
  • Located right on the edge of Seattle

4. Upper Big Creek Loop Trail

️ Address: N Lake Cushman Rd, Hoodsport, WA 98548
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • June to October is the most popular time for visitors
  • A moderate, 4-mile hike with steep inclines in places
  • Spectacular views of the surrounding area
  • The trail and bridges are well-maintained
  • Parking requires a trail pass

5. Dog Mountain Trail

️ Address: WA-14, Cook, WA 98605
Open Times: 24/7, March to December
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • There are two available hikes with varying difficulty
  • You’ll need a day or annual pass to park
  • Can be crowded in summer with limited parking—there is a shuttle available if you don’t want to park at the trail
  • Beautiful views throughout the year with gorgeous wildflowers in springtime
  • A difficult hike that is mostly uphill but it is manageable for beginners

6. Chambers Bay Loop Trail Head

️ Address: Chambers Bay Walk, University Place, WA 98466
Open Times: 6 AM–8 PM
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Only in the off-leash area
  • A 3.1-mile loop trail in Tacoma with a beach, golf park, and off-leash dog area
  • Dogs should be kept on a leash in the main park
  • An easy, mostly flat trail with beautiful views of Puget Sound
  • There isn’t a lot of shade so take plenty of water
  • Can get crowded but there’s plenty of space

7. Rachel Lake Trail

️ Address: Rachel Lake, Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068
Open Times: 24/7, June–October
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • A 9-mile hiking trail that’s popular among local backpackers
  • Offers a beautiful view of the lake and several small waterfalls
  • The trails aren’t marked very clearly so be sure to take a map
  • You’ll need a day pass or a Northwest Forest Pass to park
  • The hike is difficult to start with but is easier later on

8. Rosario Head Trail

️ Address: Deception Pass State Park, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Open Times: Dawn to dusk, all year
Cost: $10
Off-Leash: No
  • Beautiful views of Puget Sound
  • A 1.5-mile easy hike for beginners
  • There is plenty of parking available, but it gets crowded on weekends
  • You’ll need a Discovery Pass to visit the park
  • Remember to keep your dog leashed

9. Lake Ann Trail

️ Address: Lake Ann Trl, Deming, WA 98244
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • A popular spot for hiking, birdwatching, and running
  • Make sure your dog is leashed
  • The snow lingers for most of the year and can be deep in places—you might need crampons and poles
  • Offers spectacular views of Mt. Shuksan and Lake Ann
  • It’s a popular hiking spot for day visitors and campers

10. Lake Valhalla Trailhead

️ Address: Pacific Crest Nat’l Scenic Trl, Leavenworth, WA 98826
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • A 12-mile trail for experienced hikers
  • One of the quieter, less crowded hiking trails in Washington
  • There is a shorter hike to Lake Valhalla at Smithbrook Trailhead for beginners
  • You might encounter bears and other wildlife
  • There are campsites and restrooms located at Lake Valhalla

11. Sheep Lake and Sourdough Gap Trailhead

️ Address: Naches, WA 98937
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • Gets crowded later in the day so head out early
  • One of the easier trails available in Washington
  • Located on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
  • There are hiking spots available at the lake
  • It can get very busy and there is minimal parking

12. Snoqualmie Lake Trail

️ Address: North Bend, WA 98045
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • The trails are easy and suitable for novice hikers
  • You can continue your hike in Otter Falls or return to the trailhead
  • It can be difficult to get to—watch for potholes on the main road
  • There is limited parking, and you’ll need a day pass
  • You might encounter bears—Keep your dog leashed

13. Baker Lake Trail

️ Address: Baker Lake Rd, Concrete, WA 98237
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $10
Off-Leash: No
  • The road leading to the trailhead is filled with potholes
  • It’s an easy trail but lengthy
  • All the bridges and the trail are safe and well-maintained
  • It gets busy during summer weekends
  • You’ll need a National Forest Pass to park and use the trail

14. Melmont Ghost Town Hike

️ Address: 23689 Mowich Lake Rd, Carbonado, WA 98323
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • A moderately difficult hike with a few ruins to explore along the way
  • The trail can get incredibly muddy
  • Located on the Foothills Trail
  • It is difficult to find the trailhead but worth the effort
  • The trail is rarely crowded and there’s plenty of parking

15. Wildcat Green Mountain Trailhead

️ Address: 10810 NW Holly Rd, Bremerton, WA 98312
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • A popular spot for dirt biking so you need to make sure your dog is leashed
  • Suitable for novice or experienced hikers
  • It’s a long way to the top—pack enough water for you and your dog
  • On clear days you can see Seattle in the distance
  • You’ll need a Discovery Pass to park

16. Gold Creek Trailhead

️ Address: 1398 Gold Creek Rd W, Bremerton, WA 98312
Open Times: 24/7, all year
Cost: $5
Off-Leash: No
  • A paved loop trail that’s wheelchair and stroller accessible
  • You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass to use the parking lot
  • Quieter than the nearby Wildcat Trailhead
  • There are expansive and gorgeous views at the end of the hike
  • Suitable for children and older hikers

divider single dog paw oct 2024

Conclusion

There are several hiking trails throughout Washington that are man-made and natural with a range of difficulties. If you’re looking for a great view for a doggy photo shoot or just want somewhere new to explore, a new trail is an excellent choice.

You can stick to simple man-made trails if you’re a novice hiker or tackle some of the difficult trails we’ve listed to challenge your skills and give your dog some new places to sniff. Hopefully, this list will help you find your new favorite trail.

Also See:


Featured Image Credit: Kevin Lobene, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

8 Samoyed Mixed Breeds: Info, Pictures & Facts

Samoyeds are popular due to their magnificent all-white coats and lively demeanor. Samoyed mixed breeds can be developed by crossing them with other...

Why Do Dogs Pee on Trees? And How to Stop Them

Dogs have an evolutionary urge to mark things in their territory. In the modern world, dogs don’t exactly have a set territory, though....

How Long Will It Take for Dog Hair to Grow Back? Vet-Verified Facts

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and depending on the breed, they can grow either short, medium, or long hair. They can...

What’s a Starbucks Puppuccino, & Is It Safe For Dogs? (2025 Guide)

Starbucks isn’t just delicious for us humans—your furry friends can enjoy it too! The Puppuccino isn’t listed anywhere on the official store menu...

More related

Are Corgis Good with Kids? Vet Approved Facts & Care Guide

Corgis, especially popular with Queen Elizabeth II, are herding dogs. They are surprisingly energetic, given their somewhat squat stature, and they enjoy having...

Leonberger Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Facts, & Traits

A massive and regal-looking dog breed, the Leonberger might be right up your alley if you’re looking to bring a new pet into...

Nom Nom vs. The Farmer’s Dog Freshly Made Dog Food: 2025 Comparison

If you’ve decided that your dog needs to eat only the highest-quality food (and you’re willing to pay whatever it takes to make...

Can Dogs Get Pregnant When Not in Heat? Our Vet Explains

Puppies are beautiful little creatures that can bring a smile to your face and melt your heart. Did you know that the average...

Keep reading

Primal vs Stella & Chewy Dog Food: Our 2025 Comparison (Vet-Reviewed)

When you’re shopping through the ever-growing sea of commercial dog food selections, you might come across these two companies: Primal and Stella & Chewy’s. If both brands strike your attention due to their similarities and dog-conscious recipes and you want...

Dogster_Dog Food Primal VS Stella & Chewy

10 Best Dog Foods for Labradoodles in 2025 — Reviews & Top Picks

Whether you have just brought a Labradoodle into your home or are a long-time owner, you want the best for your pet. Providing complete nutrition is part of keeping your dog active and healthy. As large dogs, Labradoodles have different...

labradoodle lying on bench

10 Best Purina Dog Foods in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Purina is one of the largest pet food companies in the United States. In 2020 1 alone, this massive company earned over $15.4 billion in revenue. With over 15 lines of dog food brands under its belt and multiple recipes...

Can Dogs Eat Bugs? What the Science Says

Any dog owner has probably seen their dog eat a bug here and there, as dogs love to snoop and sniff outdoors. Dogs are curious beings and love to investigate the world around them, which can mean playing with a...

Can Dogs Eat_bugs

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary Introduction When you’re searching for high-quality, protein-filled dog food for your canine pal, you want only the very best. However, you also want a company that delivers on its promise to provide your pet with the most nutritional...

Dogster_Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Review

How Much Does The Farmer’s Dog Food Cost? 2025 Pricing Update

When you want to give your dog food that’s the best of the best, fresh is the way to go. But we all know that fresh food costs more than traditional kibble. So, how much does a food like The...

Finny with the farmer's dog food

Can Dogs With Pancreatitis Eat Peanut Butter? Our Vet Explains

A big spoonful of peanut butter is delicious and comforting and certainly a much-loved treat for dogs. Unfortunately for pancreatitis patients, it is high in fat and can put a grumpy pancreas into a full-blown temper tantrum. For dogs that...

Can Dogs With Pancreatitis Eat Peanut Butter

10 Best Dog Foods for Tear Stains in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Your dog could have tear stains for many reasons, including food intolerances. According to the American Kennel Club, some dogs see a reduction in tear stains after changing diets, we recommend a switch to a high-quality, limited-ingredient dog food.1 Before...

Closeup of Poodle dog with white fur and red tear stains