There are many wonderful hikes and trails for you and your canine companion to enjoy on the preserves. The District allows dogs at the following preserves:

Coal Creek Open Space Preserve – all trails
El Sereno Open Space Preserve –designated trail only
Foothills Open Space Preserve – all trails
Fremont Older Open Space Preserve – all trails
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve – designated trails only
Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve – all trails
St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve – all trails
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve - Kennedy-Limekiln Area only
Thornewood Open Space Preserve – all trails
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve – designated trails only

Visitors may let their dog off-leash in the 17.5 acres in the center of the Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, accessible from the Cordilleras Trail, the Polly Geraci/ Hassler Trails, and the Blue Oak Trail. While in this area, visitors must have a leash in their possession and their animal must be kept under voice control. Dogs must not be allowed to interfere with or harass park users, other dogs, or wildlife.

Leashed dogs are allowed only in designated areas as posted at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve under a special permit. Permits are available on-site at the Grizzly Flat parking area. Accessible from Grizzly Flat parking area, visitors with leashed dogs may use the Peters Creek Trail, Ridge Trail, and the firebreak that parallels Skyline Boulevard to complete a nearly two-mile loop.

Dog owners might also consider signing up for a docent-led activity suitable for dogs— a chance to socialize and exercise your dog and yourself. Check out the Calendar of Activities.

Before heading out to one of these preserves with your dog, please review our Dog Access Guidelines, including information about how to care for your dog while out on the preserves. These rules are in effect for all dogs on every preserve that allows dogs. You can also request a copy of the guidelines by calling (650) 691-1200 or visiting the District’s administrative office.

Most dog owners are observant of the rules, understanding that all recreational use on preserves must be consistent with natural resource protection and preservation, whether the users are hikers, equestrians, runners, families, bicyclists, or dog-walkers. For all types of users, compliance with the rules ensures that everyone using the trails has an enjoyable experience. When pet owners disregard the rules, they jeopardize dogs being welcome on preserves. Dog owners that model appropriate use while on the preserves show respect for others and the land, perhaps without even knowing it.

Many of the dog access guidelines revolve around dogs being on leash, which reduces conflicts with other users, protects wildlife such as the threatened dusky footed wood rat from being chased or possibly injured by dogs, and being on leash keeps dogs safe from rattlesnakes, mountain lions, and other possible threats. Flyers detailing why leashes are critical will be posted in appropriate preserve signboards. Dog waste can pose a health hazard and is a public nuisance. Do not leave waste on trails or within view. Either bag waste and pack it out with you, or move it well off the trail.