12 Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in San Antonio 2024
Updated On: February 06, 2024 | Published On: January 02, 2024
Dog-friendly hiking in San Antonio offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it a perfect destination for pet owners who love to explore the outdoors with their furry friends.
This Texan city warmly welcomes our four-legged friends, boasting miles of scenic trails ideal for a range of outdoor adventures. With more than 240 city-owned parks and such a diverse array of paths, there's something for every type of hiker and pup.
My trusty sidekick, Poppy, may no longer be up for conquering a 7-mile mountain hike like in her younger days, but thankfully, San Antonio is full of both easy and challenging dog-friendly trails brimming with new scents and sights for her to discover.
My trusty sidekick, Poppy, may no longer be up for conquering a 7-mile mountain hike like in her younger days, but thankfully, San Antonio is full of both easy and challenging dog-friendly trails brimming with new scents and sights for her to discover.
So, grab your water bottles, leash up your pup, and join us in exploring the dog-friendly hiking trails in San Antonio, where every step is an opportunity for tails to wag and spirits to soar.
Phil Hardberger Park
Phil Hardberger Park, a haven for dog lovers and their furry friends, offers a natural setting that perfectly blends scenic beauty with pet-friendly amenities. It's an ideal spot for enjoying the outdoors alongside your four-legged companions.
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Address/Starting Place:
- There are 2 designated dog parks, which are located at:
- NW Military Hwy Dog Park: 8400 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78230
- Blanco Road Dog Park: 13203 Blanco Road, San Antonio, TX 78216
- There are 2 designated dog parks, which are located at:
- Parking: Parking lots are available
- Park Hours: Open 7 days a week from sunrise to sunset
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Trail Length: Trail lengths vary throughout the park, offering diverse terrains and experiences.
- The Water Loop Trail, spanning 1 mile, features surfaces alternating between decomposed granite and concrete paving.
- The Savanna Loop Trail, at 1.84 miles, is completely unpaved, offering a more natural hiking experience.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- All dogs must be leashed when entering and leaving the dog park.
- Dogs must have current rabies and all other vaccinations required by San Antonio.
- Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash when not inside the dog parks.
- Dog owners/handlers must be in possession of a leash at all times.
- Dog owners/handlers are responsible for picking up and disposing of all of their dogs' waste.
- Never leave dogs unattended.
- Onsite dog park: The park boasts two dog parks, each with shaded, fenced areas and engaging obstacle courses, providing the perfect off-leash environment for your pup.
- Big dog friendly: The park accommodates dogs of all sizes, featuring separate sections for larger and smaller breeds.
- Water Stations: Yes, at both dog parks
- Waste dispensary stations: Mutt Mitts dispensers and trashcans are found at many of the trailheads, at the playgrounds and near buildings
- Leash restrictions: Outside the dog parks, a 6-foot leash is required.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: Dogs exhibiting signs of aggression may be asked to leave for the safety of all park visitors.
Missions San Jose to Mission Concepcion
Mission San Jose, one of the five UNESCO world heritage recognized San Antonio missions
- Address/Starting Place: 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214, United States
- Parking: Parking is available at the mission
- Park Hours: Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
- Trail Length: A 10.8 km out and back trail along paved paths. For most of the path you will be alongside the river. About 60% of the path is shaded so best to start in the early morning during hotter months.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- There are some areas that allow for dogs to be off leash.
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes
- Water Stations: There are water fountains and a public restrooms along the route.
- Waste dispensary stations: Yes, there are restrooms along the route
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet in most areas.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: All dogs are allowed
Eisenhower Park
Eisenhower Park features Hill Country landscapes, including wooded dry creek beds and rocky canyons. It offers a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty and an observation tower providing views of downtown San Antonio. It is a popular place, known for its dog-friendly path and scenic views.
- Address/Starting Place: Dwight D. Eisenhower Park, 19399 N.W. Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78257
- Parking: Parking available near the trailheads
- Park Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
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Trail Length: Over 6 miles of paved and natural trails.
- Hike to the Eisenhower Tower, with stunning views of downtown San Anotion.
- To arrive, take the Hillview Trail, spanning nearly 2 miles, from the parking lot. Return by following Cedar Flats Trail, at 0.90 miles.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Pets are allowed on leash
- Owners must remove any droppings left by their pets
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes, the park is open to all dogs on a leash
- Water Stations: Water fountains are available
- Waste dispensary stations: Restrooms are available with trashcans
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No
San Antonio River Walk Mission Reach Trail
San Antonio River Walk Mission Reach Trail, stretches along the city's historic missions, passing through the Alamo City's downtown area. This hike-and-bike trail features scenic views of the river, unique vegetation, and is the pawfect walk for history buffs.
- Address/Starting Place: San Antonio River Walk, Mission Reach Section, San Antonio, TX
- Parking: Multiple parking spots available along the trail near each mission as well as parking lots downtown
- Park Hours: Open 24 hours, however the missions have staff from 9 am to 7 pm in summer, 9 am to 5:30 pm rest of the year
- Trail Length: Approximately 10 miles, extending along the Riverwalk and encompassing four historic missions. This is an out and back walk, and not a loop
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are welcome on the trail and mission grounds on a leash, but not allowed in buildings.
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes, suitable for dogs of all sizes when leashed.
- Water Stations: Water stations are sporadic; carrying your own water is recommended.
- Waste dispensary stations: Limited; carrying your own waste bags is advised.
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be leashed at all times on the trail and mission grounds.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No specific breed restrictions; all breeds are welcome if leashed and under control.
Medina River Natural Area
Medina River Natural Area is a 511-acre pet-friendly destination with trails winding through riversides lined with pecan and bald cypress trees, and uplands featuring cactus and honey mesquite. The park offers a mix of paved and dirt trails, suitable for various hiking levels, including wheelchair-accessible options.
- Address/Starting Place: Medina River Natural Area, 15890 Hwy 16 S, San Antonio, TX, US, 78264
- Parking: Ample parking available, with multiple access points to the park
- Park Hours: Open all day, from sunrise to sunset
- Trail Length: Over 10 miles of hiking trails through diverse landscapes
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are required to be on a leash at all times.
- Poop bags and doggy water fountains are available at the beginning and end of each trail.
- Visitors should be cautious of areas with poisonous snakes and poison ivy
- Onsite dog park: The park is welcoming to dogs, though a specific onsite dog park is not available.
- Big dog friendly: Yes, dogs of all sizes are welcome
- Water Stations: Water stations are available at the beginning and end of the trail for your convenience, however, it's advisable to bring water for your dogs
- Waste dispensary stations: Several pet waste stations (with bags) are available for easy cleanup
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash
- Restrictions on dog breeds: N/A
Canyon State Natural Area
Government Canyon State Natural Area is a sprawling 12,000-acre wilderness area on the north side of San Antonio. It offers a variety of landscapes, including gently rolling grasslands and rugged canyon-lands. The park is known for its dinosaur tracks and prehistoric sites.
- Address/Starting Place: Government Canyon State Natural Area, 12861 Galm Rd, San Antonio, TX, US, 78254
- Parking: Ample parking available
- Park Hours: Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m
- Trail Length:Over 40 miles of trails, however only the dog-friendly options are the flat and easy trails: Savannah Loop (2.1 miles) and Lytle's Loop (4.74 miles)
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are allowed only on the frontcountry trails
- Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet
- You must clean up after your dogs
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Not specifically mentioned
- Water Stations: Best to bring your own water for dogs
- Waste dispensary stations: Available in the frontcountry trail areas
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No
Brackenridge Park
Brackenridge Park is a popular, 343-acre park with walking paths. The park features hiking trails, mostly on the east side, comprising concrete, gravel, or asphalt paths. These trails are well-shaded and wind through wooded areas.
- Address/Starting Place: 3700 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
- Parking: Parking is available near the zoo and the Japanese Tea Garden, though these lots tend to fill up quickly. Additional parking can be found along Red Oak Road, which connects Mulberry Avenue to Tuleta Drive, close to the river.
- Park Hours: Open daily from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Trail Length: The park offers nearly two miles of dog-friendly hiking trails.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are welcome in the park except in the playgrounds
- Onsite dog park: No specific dog park, but the park offers dog-friendly trails.
- Big dog friendly: Yes, all dogs are welcome
- Water Stations: Bring your own water
- Waste dispensary stations: Visitors are advised to bring their own waste bags
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: N/A
Stone Oak Park
Stone Oak Park in San Antonio is a scenic and pet-friendly outdoor area, offering a tranquil escape with its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The park features a variety of amenities including fitness stations, paved and unpaved bicycle trails and a walking trail. The park is divided by Stone Oak Parkway and Evans Road, with a crosswalk at Stone Oak Parkway.
- Address/Starting Place: 20395 Stone Oak Pkwy, San Antonio, Texas
- Parking: Available at the park
- Park Hours: Not specified
- Trail Length: 2.7 miles of a paved trail. View the map here.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Pets are allowed on a leash.
- Be cautious of snakes in natural areas.
- Onsite dog park: No specific dog park
- Big dog friendly: Yes, all sizes of dogs are welcome
- Water Stations: A water fountain is available in the parking lot, but it's advisable to bring your own water to ensure availability.
- Waste dispensary stations: Public restrooms are available at the start of the South Trail, but visitors should bring their own waste bags for dogs.
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No breed restrictions
Comanche Lookout Park
Comanche Lookout Park is a 96-acre park offering a mix of paved paths and natural trails. It's known for being the fourth-highest point in San Antonio, providing stunning city views. The park's trails are shaded and offer a variety of terrains, making it ideal for a leisurely walk with your dog.
- Address/Starting Place: Comanche Lookout Park, 15551 Nacogdoches Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247
- Parking: Ample free parking available
- Park Hours: Open every day from sunrise to sunset
- Trail Length: 4.5 miles of interconnected trails suitable for hikers and their dogs
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs must be on a leash
- Clean up after your dog
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes, Big and small dogs are welcome at the park
- Water Stations: Water fountains are available, including dog-friendly options
- Waste dispensary stations: Doggie bags and garbage bins are available throughout the park.
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No
Guadalupe River State Par
Guadalupe River State Park s a 1,938-acre state park that offers easy-to-navigate trails and river access. It features four miles of river frontage, making it a paw-fect spot for a day out with your four-legged friends.
- Address/Starting Place: 3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070
- Parking: Ample parking available for visitors
- Park Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.
- Trail Length: Over 16 miles of natural and gravel hiking trails, including the 2.86-mile Painted Bunting Trail and the 0.26-mile Barred Owl Trail. There are a variety of trail options, ranging from short 0.2-mile hikes to a 3.1-mile hike, which is the longest.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are allowed on leashes.
- Swimming with dogs is permitted in the shallow river areas.
- It's important to keep your pet hydrated and to clean up after them.
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes, suitable for dogs of all sizes.
- Water Stations: The river provides a natural water source. It's advisable to bring water for your dog.
- Waste dispensary stations: There are trashcans available
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No
Walker Ranch Historic Landmark Park
Walker Ranch, a historic site in San Antonio, blends natural beauty with historical significance. As part of a larger archaeologically significant site, the park has served as a habitat for hunting and gathering communities for thousands of years. The park features a half-mile paved exercise trail, approximately one mile of nature trail, a playscape, and covered pavilions. Trails wind along Salado Creek and Panther Springs Creek, marked with signs identifying native plants.
- Address/Starting Place: 12603 West Ave, San Antonio, TX 78216
- Parking: Available at the park
- Park Hours: Sunday-Saturday: 5am – 11pm
- Trail Length: Multiple short, family-friendly loops are available, including both paved and natural trails.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are allowed on a leash.
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes
- Water Stations: It's best to bring your own water for your pup.
- Waste dispensary stations: None available.
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: N/A
Leon Creek Greenway
Leon Creek Greenway features a mix of concrete trails and biking paths, ideal for dog walkers. The trail provides a scenic route along the creek, with a woodsy feel and plenty of canopy.
- Address/Starting Place: Various trailheads along the greenway, including at W. Military Drive and near the Rim shopping center.
- Parking: Available at each trailhead
- Park Hours:
- Trail Length: The concrete trail spans 24 miles from I-10 Drury Inn to Ingram, with additional branches extending the distance.
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Rules for being with your dog:
- Dogs are allowed on a leash. It's important to practice trail courtesy and clean up after your pets.
- Onsite dog park: No
- Big dog friendly: Yes, suitable for dogs of all sizes when leashed.
- Water Stations: Drinking fountains are available at many trailhead entrances.
- Waste dispensary stations: Limited availability; carrying your own waste bags is recommended.
- Leash restrictions: Dogs must be on a leash.
- Restrictions on dog breeds: No specific breed restrictions; all breeds are welcome if leashed and under control.
Safety Tips for Hiking with Your Dog
Remember, prioritizing safety is crucial when you're out on a day hike with your pup in the Texas Hill Country. First and foremost, ensure the hike you plan is dog-friendly and that your pup is up for the adventure. As hard as it is to see our friends start to age, they do. Poppy's little legs can no longer carry her on the 10 mile hikes we used to do when she was little. I now carry her in a backpack and let her walk only on flat, shaded paths.
Also, be cautious on unpaved trails, especially in South Texas, due to snakes and other critters that could harm our pups. AAlways ensure you bring enough water for both yourself and your dog, and avoid venturing out during the midday heat.
FAQs:
- What is the longest dog-friendly trail in San Antonio?
- According to AllTrails.com, Leon Creek Greenway: North from Grissom Road is the longest dog-friendly hike in San Antonio, estimated to be 19.2 km long.
- Which dog friendly trail has the most elevation gain in San Antonio?
- Leon Creek Greenway: North from Grissom Road has the highest elevation gain among dog-friendly trails in the San Antonio region, at 114 meters. Following this, the San Antonio River Walk Mission Reach Trail features the second-highest elevation gain at 92 meters for dog-friendly paths.
- What are the best times of year to visit these trails?
- The optimal time for hiking in San Antonio is between October and May. During the summer months, San Antonio can reach 110 degrees and a lot of the trails offer very little shade.
- How crowded do these trails get?
- The trails tend to be busier on weekends.
- Can I bring multiple dogs on these trails?
- Yes, multiple dogs are allowed, provided they are well-behaved and leashed when required.
- Are there emergency vet services nearby these hiking locations?
- A list of vets in the San Antonio region is available on our website, www.pawsfriendly.com.
- What wildlife might you encounter on these trails?
- Besides seeing a variety of bird species such as cardinals, blue jays and hawks, be cautious of snakes, including rattlesnakes in some areas. Also, keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, raccoons, and opossums.
- Are there dog-friendly camping spots near these trails?
- For dog-friendly camping spots in San Antonio, visit our website, www.pawsfriendly.com
- Can I find dog-friendly accommodations nearby?
- If you are looking for dog-friendly camping spots in San Antonio, you can check out our website, www.pawsfriendly.com
As we conclude our exploration of San Antonio's dog-friendly hiking trails, it's important to remember that these outdoor adventures offer more than just exercise; they provide a golden opportunity to bond with your furry friend. Each trail, whether it's a trek through a secluded park or a leisurely stroll around a picturesque picnic area, offers a unique backdrop for creating lasting memories with your pet.
However, while embracing the joy of these experiences, let's not forget our responsibility to respect the natural beauty around us. Adhering to trail rules, such as keeping your dog on a leash and cleaning up after them, helps ensure these wonderful places remain enjoyable and safe for everyone. Remember, our adventures in nature are a privilege, and taking care of these spaces is a small price to pay for the vast rewards they offer.
So, leash up, step out, and let the miles of trails in San Antonio guide you and your four-legged friend to new discoveries, all while cherishing the nature that makes these moments possible.
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