With the weather finally cooling down and AAWL’s Walk to Save Animals right around the corner, we thought it would be helpful to highlight a few dog-friendly walking trails around the valley. Our list includes hiking and walking paths that range from easy to moderate as well as a handful of scenic paths that are surprisingly easy to access.
Easy Hikes
Dreamy Draw
- 3.7 miles; dog leash required
- Located at 2421 E. Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020
- Centrally located within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve
- Face masks are required
Phoenix Mountain Preserve
- Located at 2701 E. Squaw Peak Drive
- Besides the Dreamy Draw trail, the Phoenix Mountain Preserve offers multiple dog-friendly trails
- Face masks are required
- Click here for more information
Moderate Hikes
Tom’s Thumb
- 4.0 miles; dog leash required
- Located at 23015 N. 128th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
- Panoramic views of the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Shaw Butte Trail
- 4.2 miles; dog leash required
- Located at 12950 N. 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85022
- Click here for more information
Scenic Hikes
Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout
- 4.6 miles; dog leash required
- Located at 10919 S. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
- Considered a moderate trail that is relatively flat until the last mile
- Offers expansive views of the Phoenix area
Sunrise Mountain
- 4.0 miles; dog leash required
- Located at the Peoria Sunrise Mountain Preserve
- Considered a moderate trail
- Offers panoramic views of the Peoria area
Walking Paths
Tempe Town Lakes
- The original home of AAWL’s Walk to Save Animals
- Located at 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
- Bordering the lake are 12-foot concrete paths which are connected by the Mill Avenue bridges and the Rural Road bridge.
- Scenic views with a multitude of amenities
- Click here for an interactive map
Scottsdale Greenbelt
- 11-mile paved recreational trail
- The path will take you through multiple parks and golf courses
- Scenic views with a multitude of amenities
- Click here for an interactive map
Just a friendly reminder to always check the weather before heading out the door with your furry companion and always pack the proper gear. Most trails offer water stations and ramadas for shade relief, but we recommend packing plenty of water and wearing the appropriate attire for your walking adventure.
Happy Trails!