Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Trails in Carmel, California

From forested paths tucked into Carmel’s quiet neighborhoods to cliffside walks with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views, the Monterey Peninsula is a paradise for dog lovers. Whether your pup loves a leisurely stroll, a moderate hike, or an energetic adventure, this region offers trails to suit every activity level.

This guide highlights the top dog-friendly trails, walking paths, and scenic routes across the Peninsula. Explore hidden forest nooks in Carmel-by-the-Sea, coastal boardwalks in Pacific Grove, and open spaces that locals have cherished for years. Each trail provides a unique way to connect with your dog while experiencing the natural beauty of central California’s coastline and inland landscapes.

Whether you live on the Peninsula or are visiting with your furry companion, these trails offer a mix of tranquility, exercise, and unforgettable scenery. Grab a leash, pack some water, and prepare to explore the most scenic, dog-friendly trails in Carmel and beyond—adventure awaits!

Looking for a more dog-friendly areas on the Monterey Peninsula? Check out one of these great resources:

  • Top 5 Best Dog-Friendly Trails on the Monterey Peninsula (Updated for 2025)

  • Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Monterey Peninsula

  • Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Monterey, California

  • Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Pacific Grove, California

Carmel Beach (Scenic Road)

A panoramic, dog-friendly stroll above Carmel’s iconic shoreline

For those who want to enjoy Carmel Beach without walking directly on the sand, the bluffside trail along Scenic Road offers a peaceful, dog-friendly alternative. Stretching from the northern end at Ocean Avenue down to Carmel River State Beach, this informal route combines sidewalks, dirt paths, and bluff-top walkways with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and windswept cypress trees.

Dogs must remain on leash along the trail, making it perfect for pups who thrive on structure while still enjoying sniff breaks and fresh sea breezes. Along the way, benches and stairway access points allow for short pauses, photo ops, or quiet moments of reflection with your four-legged companion.

As you head south, the trail grows quieter and more rustic, eventually blending into the residential streets of Carmel Meadows. This mix of bluffside paths, scenic viewpoints, and coastal neighborhoods makes it a versatile walk that can be a quick outing or a longer adventure combining beach, trail, and calm streets.

Parking is available along Scenic Road, though spots can fill quickly during weekends and peak sunset hours. Whether you’re exploring Carmel for the first time or revisiting with your dog, the Carmel Beach bluff trail is a serene and scenic way to experience the coastline from above.

Pros:

  • Incredible panoramic views of Carmel Beach and the Pacific Coast

  • Close proximity to downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea

Cons:

  • Some sections of the trail are narrow

  • Limited parking during busy times

Carmel Meadows Trail

A peaceful, dog-friendly coastal bluff walk with stunning views

Just south of Carmel River State Beach, the Carmel Meadows Trail is a serene escape for dog owners looking to enjoy a quiet, scenic walk along the Monterey Peninsula’s rugged coastline. This tucked-away trail winds along coastal bluffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Carmel Bay to the north and the iconic landscapes of Point Lobos State Park to the south. With the soothing sound of waves crashing against the rocks below and the scent of windswept wildflowers in the air, it’s a rejuvenating experience for both you and your DOG.

The trail is short and easy, roughly a mile out and back, making it ideal for dogs of all ages and energy levels. While leashes are required, the combination of dirt and sandy paths, coastal vegetation, and open bluff sections keeps dogs engaged and curious. Along the route, native plants and wildflowers provide a vibrant and ever-changing backdrop, while the quiet residential areas bordering the trail ensure a peaceful outing away from crowded tourist spots.

Scenic benches along the trail offer perfect resting points where you can pause to admire the ocean, watch seabirds, or even spot sea otters bobbing in the waves. The trail’s calm environment is especially welcoming for reactive dogs or those who prefer a more relaxed pace than busier beach areas allow.

Parking is convenient along Ribera Road in the Carmel Meadows neighborhood, though spaces can fill up on weekends and holidays. Additional options include Monastery Beach at the southern end or Carmel River State Beach to the north, both of which provide access points for a longer coastal adventure.

Whether you’re looking for a quick morning stroll or a contemplative afternoon walk, the Carmel Meadows Trail delivers a combination of cliffside vistas, gentle terrain, and quiet natural beauty. It’s a hidden gem for dog-friendly hiking along the Carmel coastline, perfect for those seeking peaceful, photogenic scenery just steps from the water.

Pros:

  • Quiet trail with spectacular views of Carmel Bay and Point Lobos

  • Less crowded than central Carmel beaches

Cons:

  • No dog-friendly amenities along the trail

  • Parking can be limited on weekends

Mission Trail Nature Preserve

A tranquil, dog-friendly retreat in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Tucked just behind the historic Carmel Mission, Mission Trail Nature Preserve is one of Carmel’s best-kept secrets for dog owners seeking a calm, scenic stroll. Covering 34 acres, this natural preserve offers over five miles of interconnected trails that wind through shady woodlands, open meadows, and carefully preserved native gardens. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet, dog-friendly hike while staying close to downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The trails are soft, unpaved, and easy on the paws, making them ideal for dogs of all ages and energy levels. Along the way, you’ll wander past groves of majestic Monterey pines and coast live oaks, with occasional peeks of the Carmel Mission’s iconic bell towers adding a touch of historic charm to the natural setting. Birdsong fills the air, and the shaded paths provide relief on warmer days, making it a perfect spot for morning walks or relaxed afternoon outings.

For owners and pups looking for a longer adventure, Mission Trail Nature Preserve connects to nearby Flanders Mansion Trail and Serra Trail, which add mild elevation, more seclusion, and a sense of discovery as you explore the preserve’s upper reaches. Dogs must remain on leash, which helps maintain the tranquil environment and protects the area’s delicate plant life.

Parking is most convenient at the Rio Road entrance near the Mission, though spaces can be limited during peak times. There are no restrooms, drinking fountains, or dog water stations within the preserve, so plan ahead and bring your own supplies. Despite these minimal amenities, the preserve’s serene atmosphere, natural beauty, and proximity to Carmel make it a favorite for locals and visiting dog owners alike.

Whether you’re looking for a reflective solo walk, a gentle nature stroll with your dog, or a quiet way to enjoy Carmel’s native landscapes, Mission Trail Nature Preserve delivers a calm and restorative experience away from the hustle of more crowded trails.

Pros:

  • Secluded trails just minutes from downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • Soft, shaded paths ideal for dogs and leisurely walks

Cons:

  • Limited parking at trailheads

  • Mostly valley terrain, so few panoramic views compared to coastal trails

BONUS: 17 Mile Drive

A scenic, dog-friendly coastal walk along one of the Monterey Peninsula’s most iconic drives

While 17-Mile Drive is world-famous for its breathtaking coastal vistas, towering cypress trees, and legendary golf courses, many visitors don’t realize that this historic route also features a fantastic dog-friendly trail. The trail stretches between Moss Beach and Bird Rock, running parallel to the iconic roadway and offering some of the Monterey Peninsula’s most spectacular ocean views. Accessible via multiple turnouts and parking areas along 17-Mile Drive, it’s a perfect destination for dog owners seeking a scenic and memorable walk.

Dogs must remain on leash along the trail, which is ideal for well-behaved pups who enjoy a steady stroll amid dramatic coastal scenery. The path winds along open bluffs, providing panoramic views of rugged shorelines, hidden coves, and the famous Bird Rock, where sea lions and seabirds are often spotted. Along the way, benches and viewpoints allow both dogs and humans to pause, enjoy the breeze, and soak in the sweeping ocean vistas. Wildlife sightings are common, offering curious pups plenty to investigate while keeping them leashed ensures the local flora and fauna are protected.

Visitors from out of town should note that accessing the trail requires entering the Pebble Beach neighborhood, which has a $12 entrance fee. Despite this, the combination of spectacular scenery, peaceful trails, and the chance to walk a section of one of California’s most iconic drives makes the fee well worth it.

Whether you’re looking for a short coastal stroll or a longer adventure with your dog, the 17-Mile Drive Trail from Moss Beach to Bird Rock provides a memorable dog-friendly experience. It’s a rare opportunity to explore the Monterey Peninsula’s famed coastline on foot, with your four-legged friend right by your side.

Pros:

  • Walkable portion of one of California’s most celebrated drives

  • Incredible coastal scenery and abundant wildlife viewing

Cons:

  • $12 entrance fee to Pebble Beach required

  • Exposed sections of the trail can be very windy