Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in Desert Hot Springs, CA

Mission Creek Preserve is a dog-friendly nature preserve in Desert Hot Springs, CA. The area is home to old buildings along a dusty pathway that you can walk with your leashed pup. On the way, you'll pass historic structures and stunning desert plant communities, all with the backdrop of Southern California’s tallest peak in the background. Don't forget to pick up after your pooch.

Idyllwild Nature Center in Idyllwild, CA, is a dog-friendly recreational area where Fido is welcome on the trails on leash. Enjoy hiking, nature programs, picnic areas, guided tours, and more. Various seasonal events are held throughout the year, including the well-known Lemon Lily Restoration Day, Butterfly Daze, Trail of the Acorn Day, and the Wildflower Day. There are day-use admission fees for adults, children, and dogs.

Whitewater Preserve is a dog-friendly nature area in Whitewater, CA. This large nature reserve is over 2,800 acres near the Whitewater River, and trails range from easy to moderate difficulty. Make sure to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water for you and Fido. Please note that there is no cell service in this area.

Humber Park in Idyllwild, CA, offers dog-friendly trails. There are paved parking and vault toilets at the trailhead. Adventure Pass or a National Parks Pass is required. Be sure Fido is leashed while hiking in this area. Please note that dogs are prohibited in the State Park Wilderness; check maps on their website for boundaries.

Leashed dogs are welcome on the pet-friendly Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail in Idyllwild, CA. Beginning at Humber Park, the 2.6-mile round-trip hike descends about 700 feet, passing through shaded forest and seasonal creek crossings, and offers scenic views of Suicide Rock and Lily Rock. Note that an Adventure Pass or a valid Interagency Pass is required and must be obtained before arriving.

Black Mountain Trail is a difficult, 6.9 mile hike in San Bernardino National Forest that will take about 4 hours to complete with Fido. This beautiful, dog-friendly hike in Banning, CA, will have you thinking you are in the Sierra Nevada with its granite boulders, large pines, open vistas, and beautiful views. Although you will need an Adventure Pass for parking, no permit is required to use the trail. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

The Transmission Sculpture by Daniel Popper is a stunning cultural landmark nestled in the desert near the National Park in Joshua Tree, CA. This towering piece of art symbolizes the profound connection between earth and sky, offering a unique visual experience. Bring Fido along to witness the sculpture, especially at sunset when it's illuminated, creating a truly inspiring atmosphere.

Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany you for a hike along The Cross Trail in Palm Desert, CA. Beginning at Homestead Trailhead and accessible year-round, embark on a 2.3 mile hike over a heavily trafficked out and back trail. Named for the iconic cross standing at the end of the trail, hikers can admire an abundance of wildflowers and the rocky desert landscape which lies beyond. A moderately difficult rating and fairly steep rocky terrain doesn't deter the many hiking enthusiasts and their dogs who frequent this scenic trail. Visitors should bring plenty of water and snacks for their journey.

Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout trail is a difficult, though dog-friendly, 6-mile hike in Idyllwild, CA that will take about 4 hours to complete with Fido. This trail is less visited and more dog friendly than the other trail up to Tahquitz Peak. Leash laws apply as this trail goes through the San Jacinto Wilderness. Wilderness permits or Adventure Passes, depending on where you start your hike from, are required.

Sugarloaf Mountain Trail is a difficult 11.6-mile hike in Big Bear, CA. This dog-friendly trail is located within the San Bernardino National Forest. There's no need for a permit when hiking this peak, the highest outside of the National Forest. The trail will take you on a very rocky path through the alpine forest. Be sure to bring plenty of water and check Fido's paws frequently. This area is subject to seasonal closure due to weather conditions. During the winter months, the parking lot is closed and there is an option to park on 38th adding two miles.

Palm View Peak Trail is a difficult, though dog-friendly 8.6-mile hike in Mountain Center, CA. This trail is located within San Bernardino National Forest and will take about 4 hours to complete with Fido. If you are looking to hike to a peak with a dramatic view, then this might not be the trail for you. This trail is for those who want to enjoy a trail and don't necessarily need it to lead somewhere epic. It is a little hard to find the path to the top, but with a map and some trail sense you can find the peak and trail register. Fido must be leashed while on this trail.

Devil's Slide is a moderate-to-hard, dog-friendly trail near Idyllwild, CA, with steady switchbacks, shaded forest sections and beautiful mountain views. About 2.5 miles (one way), great for an active hike with your pup. Dogs allowed on leash. A permit is required for this trail—plan ahead and bring water.

Kitching Peak Trail is a difficult, 8-mile dog-friendly hike in Banning, CA. Located within the San Bernardino National Forest, this hike will take about 5 hours to complete with Fido. From the top of this trail you will see spectacular views of the mountains, drop-offs, and desert floor. It's advised to double-check with a San Bernardino National Forest ranger about any trail closures.