Dog-friendly hiking trails near Phoenix
Phoenix-area dog hikes range from short, manageable loops to exposed desert routes. The options below are in Maricopa County regional parks around the metro area, not all within Phoenix city limits. Dogs must remain on a leash no longer than six feet in these county parks.
Cave Creek Regional Park
Near Cave Creek, north of Phoenix. County Bark Ranger guidance lists Slate–Jasper–Go John as an easy 0.7-mile route, and the Slate Trail as an easy 3.2-mile out-and-back. Check the park's current trail status and map before setting out.
Usery Mountain Regional Park
Near Mesa on the east side of the metro area. County guidance lists the Merkle Loop as an easy one-mile route and the Levee Trail as an easy 1.6-mile option. Choose a route that matches your dog's conditioning and the day's conditions.
White Tank Mountain Regional Park
West of Phoenix near Waddell. County guidance lists the easy Gray Fox Trail at 1.8 miles out and back and the Waterfall Trail at about 1.8 miles out and back. Confirm access, conditions and any trail restrictions before driving out.
Desert trail checklist for dogs
- Keep dogs on a leash six feet or shorter in Maricopa County Regional Parks.
- Carry drinking water and a collapsible bowl; do not rely on fountains being available.
- Choose cooler hours and avoid exposed routes during hot conditions. Desert surfaces can heat quickly.
- Bring waste bags and check trailhead notices, fees, hours and closures.
- Hassayampa River Preserve does not allow dogs; do not assume every regional preserve is dog-friendly.
Official county Bark Ranger trail guide and dog rules ↗ · Phoenix parks and hiking information ↗
Phoenix dog parks → · Steele Indian School Dog Park guide → · Phoenix city guide →