Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Trails in Monterey, California
Looking for the best places to walk your dog in Monterey? You’re in luck, this coastal city is packed with scenic, dog-friendly trails that showcase everything from sparkling bay views to peaceful wooded escapes. Whether you’re a local searching for a new weekend walk or visiting Monterey with your dog for the first time, there are plenty of trails here to fit every mood and energy level.
From the iconic Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, where leashed dogs can stroll alongside the ocean, to hidden neighborhood paths that offer quieter, shaded routes, Monterey has a trail for every type of adventure. Some trails are short and easy for casual morning walks, while others connect to longer routes perfect for dogs (and humans) who want a little extra exercise.
This guide covers all of the top dog-friendly hiking trails and walking paths in Monterey, with tips on what to expect, where to park, and how to make the most of your outing. So grab your leash, pack some water, and get ready to discover why Monterey is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in California.
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 Carmel, California
Complete Guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Pacific Grove, California
Jacks Peak County Park
Explore forested trails and panoramic views with your dog
For dog owners seeking a backcountry escape on the Monterey Peninsula, Jacks Peak County Park offers a serene, dog-friendly hiking experience. This 525-acre park is perched atop the peninsula’s highest peak and features an extensive trail network that winds through Monterey pine forests, native chaparral, and oak woodlands, providing a peaceful retreat from the busy coast.
Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park, and the variety of trails accommodates every energy level. The Skyline Trail is a gentle loop that hugs the ridge, delivering breathtaking views of Monterey Bay, Carmel Valley, and even Point Lobos State Park on a clear day. More ambitious walkers can venture onto the Ridge Trail or Coffeeberry Trail for longer distances and moderate elevation gains, ideal for active dogs and owners who want a bit of a workout.
One of Jacks Peak’s biggest draws is its tranquility. Unlike busier coastal trails, this inland park offers quiet forest paths, fresh pine-scented air, and natural birdcalls, making it perfect for dogs that enjoy sniffing and exploring without distractions. Picnic areas and restrooms near the main parking lot make it easy to extend your visit into a half-day adventure.
Be sure to bring plenty of water for you and your pup, as there are no water stations along the trails. While some sections are shaded, portions along the ridge can get sunny, especially midday, so plan accordingly.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely forest stroll or a more challenging hike, Jacks Peak County Park is a must-visit for dog owners seeking a scenic, peaceful escape on the Monterey Peninsula. With its combination of forested trails, panoramic views, and off-the-beaten-path atmosphere, it’s a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Pros:
Extensive trail system suitable for all activity levels
Quiet, forested setting away from busy beaches
Cons:
Further from downtown Monterey than other trails
Inland location can be hotter than coastal areas during summer
El Estero Park
A unique, dog-friendly urban park in Monterey
If you’re searching for a convenient, dog-friendly spot in downtown Monterey, El Estero Park offers a peaceful retreat just steps from the city’s hustle and bustle. Centered around El Estero Lake, this charming city park is perfect for leashed dogs and their humans who want a low-key walk with plenty of sights, sounds, and smells to enjoy.
The main loop around the lake measures just under a mile, making it an ideal choice for a quick stroll, a morning stretch, or a gentle outing for older dogs. Along the path, you’ll encounter joggers, families, paddle boaters, and fellow dog walkers, creating a lively yet calm atmosphere. Ducks, geese, and seasonal wildlife provide extra sensory stimulation for pups, and it’s a great spot to practice leash skills and focus around distractions.
Shady benches, grassy areas, and picnic spots dot the loop, offering multiple rest opportunities for you and your dog. While the park includes family-friendly amenities like the Denise the Menace Playground, skate park, and picnic tables, your furry companion will be happiest sticking to the trails and green spaces. For dogs eager for more adventure, sidewalks and greenways connect the park to the Coastal Recreation Trail and Del Monte Beach, extending your outing with scenic routes.
Parking is plentiful and free, available in the lot off Pearl Street and nearby residential streets. Waste stations are scattered throughout the park, but bringing extra bags is always recommended to keep this urban oasis clean for everyone.
Whether you’re a local looking for a daily walking loop or a visitor seeking a calm spot to explore with your dog, El Estero Park is an accessible, dog-friendly escape that combines convenience, natural beauty, and a relaxed urban vibe.
Pros:
Easy, flat loop perfect for short walks
Central location near Old Monterey and Downtown
Cons:
Ducks and geese can challenge reactive dogs
Less pristine than some coastal or forested trails
Coastal Recreation Trail
The Monterey Peninsula’s Premier Dog-Friendly Walking Path
Stretching more than 18 miles along the stunning Monterey coastline, the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is the ultimate dog-friendly destination for walks, jogs, and scenic adventures. Whether you’re enjoying a sunrise stroll, a leisurely afternoon walk, or a weekend outing with your pup, this paved, multi-use trail provides breathtaking ocean views and easy access to some of Monterey’s most iconic attractions, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and Lovers Point.
Dogs are welcome on leash along the entire trail, giving your furry friend the chance to sniff, explore, and enjoy the outdoors safely. Along the way, you’ll pass sandy beaches, rocky coves, grassy parks, tide pools, and piers—perfect spots for a quick pause or some dog-friendly fun. Keep an eye out for wildlife like sea otters, harbor seals, and seabirds, especially near Pacific Grove and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The trail’s most popular section runs from Fisherman’s Wharf to Lovers Point, featuring plenty of benches, picnic areas, and dog-friendly cafés nearby. For longer adventures, the path extends south past Asilomar State Beach and north beyond Del Monte Beach, ideal for high-energy dogs who love a long walk.
With multiple access points and ample public parking, this trail is highly convenient for both locals and visitors. Key amenities include dog water stations, waste bag dispensers, and public restrooms along the route. However, note that summer weekends bring heavy foot and bike traffic, so keeping your dog close is essential for safety.
Whether you’re exploring Monterey for the first time or looking for a reliable daily walking route, the Coastal Recreation Trail is the most versatile, scenic, and dog-friendly trail on the Monterey Peninsula—a must-visit for anyone seeking a coastal adventure with their pup.
Pros:
Extensive, well-maintained trail with ocean views
Dog-friendly amenities including water stations and waste bags
Cons:
Busy during summer months and weekends
Fast-moving cyclists require attentive leash control