Dog Friendly Hiking Trails Near Palomar Observatory, CA, US

Barker Valley Trail is a dog-friendly, moderately easy, 7.5 mile hike located in Cleveland National Forest in Palomar Mountain, CA, that will take about 4 hours to complete with Fido. On this trail you will actually descend on the way in and then ascend on the way out. The very slow and steady incline, allows for an inverse hike that isn't utterly exhausting. The trail can be hot throughout the year, and it is important to bring plenty of water along. Turn west from Highway 79 at a point 6.5 miles northwest of Warner Springs (mile 41.9 according to the roadside mileage markers). Continue up the mostly unpaved Palomar Divide Road for 7.8 miles to the Barker Valley Spur trailhead on the left (west) side. This road is subject to closure during and after bad weather. Also note that since the trailhead and the hiking route lie within national forest territory, you must post a National Forest Adventure Pass on your parked car.