Are you planning your next outdoor adventure and wanting to hit the trails with a furry friend?
For many reasons, including Mount Diablo’s sensitive ecology and potential safety issues for dogs, Mount Diablo State Park itself does not allow dogs on its unpaved trails.
Fortunately, there are numerous local East Bay parks that do allow dogs to join you on the trails.
Many of the best local dog-friendly trails are part of the East Bay Regional Parks system. They consider themselves to be one of the most dog-friendly organizations in the nation, and allow dogs to enjoy nearly all of their open spaces!
1. Shell Ridge Open Space
Shell Ridge Open Space. Photo by Denise Castro
Nestled within the foothills of Mount Diablo, you can find Shell Ridge Open Space. Hikers (human and canine alike) can enjoy the beauty of seasonal ponds, blooming flowers, rolling hills, and oak woodlands here.
And if you know where to look you can find the ancient, fossilized shells that serve as the area’s namesake.
2. Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve
Lougher Loop in Black Diamond Preserve. Photo by Scott Hein
For those living in Concord, Antioch, and Pittsburg, Black Diamond is a great place to take your dog on an adventure.
This large preserve is full of scenic views, California history, and great hiking trails that allow dogs! There are numerous wide multi-use trails like Lougher Loop and Old Homestead Loop that are great for enjoying the preserve throughout the year.
3. Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail
Lime Ridge Open Space at sunrise. The Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail connects many parks together, including Lime Ridge in Concord. Photo by Ted Clement
Looking for a more urban hiking experience? Check out this trail that follows the Contra Costa Canal, connecting Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Concord!
It’s great for those who want to travel along a paved road while still enjoying nature with their dogs.
4. Briones Regional Park
Briones is gorgeous year-round; visitors can enjoy abundant wildlife, diverse flora, and stunning overlooks. It’s a beautiful location to get your dog some exercise in the hills.
Briones has multiple staging areas in Martinez and Pleasant Hill. If you take your dog there, keep in mind that some locations may have grazing cows that cross the trails.
5. Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
Morgan Territory Regional Preserve. Photo by Cooper Ogden
On the south side of Mount Diablo, by Livermore and Marsh Creek, you can find the 5,323-acre Morgan Territory Regional Preserve.
Hikers and cyclists (and their dogs) can enjoy views of the mountain from below and experience one of the wilder parts of the Mount Diablo region in this preserve.
It directly borders Mount Diablo State Park and contains scenic ridges with lush valleys that bloom with over 90 species of wildflowers in the spring.
Photo by Scott Hein
Check out our regional trail map to find more great places to explore the trails. If you’re not sure whether a trail allows dogs, be sure to check the website or signage before starting your journey.
Top photo by Ray Shrewsberry
