10 Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in Boston – Best Places To Hike With Pets

The weather is warm and everyone, including our four-legged friends, are itchin’ to get out in nature! Here’s a great list of the top 10 dog friendly hiking trails in and near Boston.

 

One of the largest parks in the state, boasting more than 7,000 acres, Blue Hills is the perfect spot to get some space and roam with your pup. While it boasts numerous trails for you and your dog, one thing to note is that there is no off-leash area, or space to let them run free. Be sure to pack a bag with water and treats, as some of the trails take a long time to hike.

 

The scenic Castle Island is a loop that is not only a dog-friendly path, but also a dog-friendly beach, perfect for your dog to jump in the water and cool off after a long walk. Pro tip: free parking can be found in the lot near Fort Independence, so even if you don’t live close to South Boston, you can easily drive.

 

The Marsh Reservation offers new views for a hike with your furry friend. This urban nature preservation includes views of a marsh, wildlife, and an observation tower. Pets are welcome on-leash at the reservation.

 

Covering Malden, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham, and Winchester, Middlesex Fells boasts more than 2,200 acres and relatively close to Boston. This is the go-to place for people with dogs, or if you don’t have a dog and just love seeing them! Dogs are welcome both on, and off-leash

 

You can enjoy a great walk, without having to leave the city. With ball fields, historic structures, and statues, there’s something to see in every part of the path. The park allows leashed dogs all year round.

 

The Mystic River State Reservation is open year-round, perfect for dogs who don’t mind walking in the cold weather (or snow). It’s a great spot to walk for dogs who don’t mind strolling nearby a body of water. Don’t miss the 18,000 square foot dog park that was built along the river path, located on the grounds of Andrew Middle School.

 

An easy hike, the Neponset River Reservation spans 3.2 miles and great for all skill levels. You and your leashed friend can enjoy the views and wildflowers that grow along the path.

 

 

 

Take your dog for a stroll along the largest freshwater marsh in the middle of the Charles River. Soak in views and many different kinds of birds like blue herons and hawks on the pet-friendly trail. All pets must be leashed on your walk.

 

Cambridge, Arlington, and Somerville dogs will love this trail – it’s also in walking distance from the Alewife train stop if you don’t have a car. With 120 acres, it’s one of Boston’s urban wildlife reservation and features great pet-friendly walking trails.

 

 

 

 

Great for all skill levels, this trail is great for dogs. It’s quiet during the weekday, so would be a relaxing place to take your dog for a long walk (45 minutes to an hour to complete the trail) and soak in beautiful views.

 

 

Any other dog friendly hiking trails in Boston? Leave us a comment and let us know where you love to take your dogs for a walk in the area!