Dog-Friendly Hikes Near the Bay

Lake Chabot, built in 1874-75, initially served as the East Bay's primary water source but was closed for recreation for 91 years. It reopened for recreational use in the 1960s and now functions as an emergency water supply. The lake is stocked with trout, catfish, bass, and crappie, and hosts an annual spring fishing derby. Lake Chabot Regional Park features over 20 miles of hiking trails, connecting to 70 more in the adjacent Anthony Chabot Regional Park. The paved West Shore and East Shore trails total 3.52 miles, while the Lake Chabot bicycle loop covers 12.42 miles via the Live Oak Trail and 14.41 miles on the Honker Bay Trail. Note that swimming is prohibited for humans and dogs. Mount Tamalpais State Park allows dogs only on paved roads, Old Stage Fire Road, and the Verna Dunshee Trail, as well as in developed areas, campgrounds, and picnic spots. Dogs must remain leashed at all times. Most dirt trails are off-limits to protect the natural habitat. For more dog-friendly hiking, consider Marin County's Point Reyes National Seashore, where leashed dogs are permitted on Kehoe, Limantour, and Point Reyes/Great Beach. Dogs are also welcome, on leash, in the parking lot of the Bear Valley Visitor Center.