Oregon’s Tualatin Valley offers a plethora of options when it comes to hiking with your four-legged friend. From state parks to neighborhood parks, there is no shortage of dog-friendly hikes and trails that will keep both you and your dog exploring any time of the year.
If you want to escape the noise of the suburbs without the long drive, Hyland Woods Natural Area, in the middle of a South Beaverton neighborhood, is the perfect dog-friendly hike. The 30-acre Douglas Fir forested park offers almost two mile of trails that loop and wind around creating a little oasis in the city. With mostly flat, soft-surface trails, this hike is well suited for all skill levels.
Located off Highway 47 in Buxton, L.L. Stub Stewart State Park offers a 4.8-mile loop where hikers can see wildflowers in bloom throughout the moderate hike. Bring a picnic for you and your dog to enjoy pre- or post-hike at one of the Hilltop Day-Use Area’s picnic tables overlooking the Oregon coast range. The trails are open year-round, but this hike is best enjoyed between May and October when the weather is mild. A $5 day-use fee is payable at the park’s entrance.
On the northwest slope of Cooper Mountain near Beaverton, Jenkins Estate offers 68 acres to explore with your furry friend. This century-old estate’s flower gardens are open to humans and dogs alike and the two miles of densely forested trails make this spot ideal to hike any time of the year. The Douglas-fir, madrone, hazel and alder trees among other varieties on the property, keep the trails and your pup cool, even on a hot summer day.
If you are looking for more of a challenge, Henry Hagg Lake in Scoggins Valley Park offers a 13-mile trail loop around the man-made reservoir. Whether you and your dog plan to hike the entire loop or explore the short stretches in between day-use areas, the level trail will lead you through old growth forests and lush wildflower fields with sweeping views of Hagg Lake. The beautiful landscape offers ideal spots to stop and enjoy a picnic with your pup. A $6 day-use fee is payable at the park’s entrance.
Spanning from the Progress Ridge neighborhood to Tualatin Hills Nature Park in Beaverton, the Westside Trail takes you through eight miles of both wooded natural areas, and residential neighborhoods and parks. The rolling hills on this hike offer a challenge to hikers but with the rewarding view of the valley below. Depending on the time of year, this paved trail can be heavily trafficked by both people and dogs creating the opportunity for your pup to meet some new friends.
These dog-friendly hikes are the perfect place for you and your best friend to exercise together and see the natural beauty of Tualatin Valley. For their safety, please always remember to keep your furry friend on leash when exploring these outdoor destinations.