Dog Friendly Fall Hikes Near San Francisco
San Francisco may be famous for its fog, but when fall rolls around, the city opens up in the best way. Crisp mornings, golden hillsides, and fewer crowds make autumn the perfect time to get outside with your pup. Whether you’ve got a high-energy dog who thrives on adventure or a laid-back buddy who prefers a short stroll, San Francisco has no shortage of dog-friendly fall hikes.
Below are some of the best dog friendly fall hikes near San Francisco, complete with trail highlights, parking tips, and a few insider notes from local dog owners.
Fort Funston
Why go: If there’s a dog-owner bucket list in San Francisco, Fort Funston is at the very top. With sandy trails, ocean views, and plenty of space to run, it’s often described as “doggy Disneyland.”
Fall perk: Cooler weather means your dog can run and dig without overheating. It’s also a prime season for fewer beach crowds.
Parking: The main lot off Skyline Boulevard fills quickly on weekends. Arrive before 10 AM or use the overflow lot nearby.
Tip: Bring a towel for sandy paws — trust us, they’ll need it.
Difficulty: 🦴 (Easy)
Extra Category: Off-leash freedom
Lands End Trail
Why go: This cliffside trail delivers postcard-worthy views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and Sutro Baths. It’s one of the city’s most photographed walking spots, and dogs are welcome on-leash.
Fall perk: The crisp autumn air keeps the trail comfortable, and the fall light makes the Golden Gate views especially dramatic.
Parking: Park at the Lands End Lookout Visitor Center on Point Lobos Avenue. Street parking nearby is available, but check posted limits.
Tip: Go on a weekday morning for a peaceful, crowd-free hike.
Difficulty: 🦴🦴 (Moderate)
Extra Category: Scenic coastal views
Mount Davidson
Why go: At 938 feet, Mount Davidson is the highest natural point in San Francisco. The trail winds through eucalyptus groves before opening up to sweeping 360-degree city views.
Fall perk: In autumn, the eucalyptus groves release their signature scent, making it an especially pleasant sensory experience for both humans and dogs.
Parking: Free street parking is available near Dalewood Way and Lansdale Avenue trailheads. Arrive early for the best spots.
Tip: Trails can be narrow in sections, so keep dogs on-leash and ready to yield to fellow hikers.
Difficulty: 🦴🦴 (Moderate)
Extra Category: Panoramic city views
Crissy Field
Why go: With flat terrain, waterfront paths, and Golden Gate Bridge views, Crissy Field is a go-to for dog owners. It’s especially popular with families, senior dogs, and pups who like a more leisurely outing.
Fall perk: Cooler weather keeps the crowds down, and sunsets over the bridge are especially stunning in October and November.
Parking: East Beach has a large paid lot with easy shoreline access. On weekends, overflow parking near Marina Green is a safe bet.
Tip: Pack a picnic or grab coffee at the Warming Hut Café and enjoy the dog-friendly patio.
Difficulty: 🦴 (Easy)
Extra Category: Family & senior dog friendly
Does your senior dog need extra attention and a slower pace? Senior dogs love our solo dog walk service! Reach out to find out if we’re the right fit for you and your senior pup.
Corona Heights Park
Why go: A steep but rewarding hike right in the heart of the city. Dogs love the rocky terrain, and the summit provides panoramic views of downtown and the Bay.
Fall perk: Clear autumn skies make the views pop even more.
Parking: Limited street parking near Roosevelt Way. Easier to access midday.
Extra Category: Urban adventure
Difficulty Rating: 🦴🦴 (Moderate)
Tip: Keep pups leashed on the rocky upper sections for safety.
Crane Cove Park
Why go: A new waterfront park in Dogpatch with open lawns, sandy beach areas, and paved walking paths. Perfect for lower-key strolls with gorgeous Bay views.
Fall perk: Warm fall afternoons make this one of the most pleasant waterfront walks in the city.
Parking: Small paid lot on Illinois Street plus street parking nearby.
Extra Category: Waterfront leisure
Difficulty Rating: 🦴 (Easy)
Tip: Great option for social dogs — plenty of pups gather here in the evenings.
Glen Canyon Park
Why go: This underrated park in the Glen Park neighborhood features trails that wind through a canyon, offering a surprising dose of wilderness within city limits.
Fall perk: The changing foliage creates bursts of autumn color, and shaded trails keep hikes cool.
Parking: Street parking near Elk Street entrance is the most convenient. Spaces can be limited, so plan accordingly.
Extra Category: Urban wilderness
Difficulty Rating: 🦴🦴🦴 (Challenging in sections)
Tip: Stay alert — coyotes are sometimes spotted here, especially in fall.
Tips for Fall Hiking With Dogs
Bring water: Even in cooler temps, dogs need regular hydration.
Pack a towel: Many trails have sand, mud, or foxtails. A quick cleanup saves your car.
Check leash rules: Some trails are strictly on-leash, while others allow off-leash under voice control.
Mind the wildlife: Fall is active season for coyotes and hawks in the Bay Area.
Rotate your hikes: Create a list of favorite fall hikes around San Francisco so your dog gets fresh stimulation each week.
Final Woof
San Francisco truly is a city made for dogs, and fall is one of the best times to enjoy it together. From coastal bluffs at Lands End to hidden gems like Glen Canyon Park, these hikes deliver adventure, bonding time, and plenty of tail wags.
Looking for more ways to keep your pup happy and healthy beyond weekend hikes? Blue Dog SF offers reliable, GPS-tracked dog walking services across San Francisco — so your best friend can enjoy city life all year round.
Our professional dog walkers are currently serving downtown areas including the Marina District, Presidio Heights, Laurel Heights, Pacific Heights, Nob Hill, and more. Check out all of our current neighborhoods here to find out if Blue Dog SF is right for your favorite pup.
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