Looking to get outside with your dog and enjoy some fresh air and exercise? Hitting the trails is a great way to keep both you and your pup active, engaged, and mentally stimulated. Luckily, there are countless dog friendly hiking trails throughout Florida and beyond—ranging from relaxing boardwalks to more rugged forest paths.
If you’re planning your next outdoor adventure, this guide will help you find safe, scenic trails and offer tips to make your hike enjoyable and stress-free.
🥾 Why Choose Dog Friendly Hiking Trails?
Unlike dog parks or sidewalks, hiking trails offer your pup the chance to explore nature’s sights, smells, and sounds at their own pace. Trails provide both mental enrichment and physical activity, which is important for all breeds—but especially helpful for high-energy dogs or pups prone to boredom.
At Qualified Pet Services, we’re big believers in the benefits of outdoor enrichment. Even during our drop-in visits, we incorporate outdoor time when appropriate because we know it helps with stress relief, weight management, and behavior.
🌳 Top Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in Florida
Here are some standout trails where leashed dogs are welcome and nature is on full display:
1. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve – Fort Myers, FL
A peaceful boardwalk trail through wetlands and cypress trees. Dogs must stay leashed.
🔗 https://www.sloughpreserve.org
2. Koreshan State Park – Estero, FL
A scenic riverside path with shaded areas and wildlife viewing. Dogs allowed on 6-ft leash.
🔗 https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/koreshan
3. Lovers Key State Park – Fort Myers Beach, FL
Enjoy beach and nature trails with your leashed dog. Avoid the heat by going early!
🔗 https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/lovers-key
4. Alafia River State Park – Lithia, FL
Offers more rugged hiking and biking trails for adventurous pets and owners.
🔗 https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/alafia
5. CREW Flint Pen Strand Trails – Bonita Springs, FL
A lesser-known spot with beautiful wildflowers and forest views.
🔗 https://crewtrust.org/crew-flint-pen-strand-trails/
🐕 Tips for Hiking With Your Dog
To make your hike safe and fun for everyone, follow these key tips:
- Bring plenty of water for both of you.
- Keep your dog on a 6-foot leash to protect wildlife and other hikers.
- Pack waste bags and always clean up after your dog.
- Watch for signs of overheating—especially in Florida’s warmer months.
- Carry a basic first aid kit and flea/tick repellent.
- Check your pup’s paws for cuts or debris after the hike.
For more on safe outdoor adventures, the American Hiking Society has a great checklist.
🏕️ Make It Part of Your Routine
Incorporating regular hikes into your week—even short ones—can be a great bonding experience. Dogs thrive on routine, and if you’re busy or traveling, don’t forget that our team of trained professionals can help maintain that routine with outdoor breaks or enrichment walks while you’re away.
📚 References:
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. (n.d.). Retrieved August 31, 2025, from https://www.sloughpreserve.org
- Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Koreshan State Park. Retrieved August 31, 2025, from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/koreshan
- Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Lovers Key State Park. Retrieved August 31, 2025, from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/lovers-key
- Florida State Parks. (n.d.). Alafia River State Park. Retrieved August 31, 2025, from https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/alafia
- CREW Land & Water Trust. (n.d.). Flint Pen Strand Trails. Retrieved August 31, 2025, from https://crewtrust.org/crew-flint-pen-strand-trails/
- American Hiking Society. (n.d.). Hiking with Dogs. Retrieved August 31, 2025, from https://americanhiking.org/resources/hiking-with-dogs/
⚠️ Disclaimer:
Always check trail regulations before visiting. Qualified Pet Services is not responsible for injuries, wildlife encounters, or weather-related hazards during hikes.
