The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Uvas Canyon County Park
5.0
(13)
248
hikers
4
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails in Uvas Canyon County Park are characterized by heavily forested terrain, year-round flowing creeks, and numerous waterfalls. The park encompasses 1,147 acres on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering diverse natural features. Hikers can explore dense woods with Douglas fir, redwood, and oak, while riparian zones along creeks feature sycamore and alder. Trails often follow Swanson Creek, leading to cascades like Basin Falls and Triple Falls, with some routes ascending to higher points…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
2
hikers
26.5km
07:58
830m
840m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
29
hikers
13.1km
03:58
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
10.9km
03:15
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Bald Peak provides great views of Santa Clara Valley, the Diablo Range, and the Santa Cruz Mountains. Hikers and mountain bikers can access the peak via trails like Hidden Springs and Coyote Peak, which offer moderate to steep climbs. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for enjoying cooler temperatures in hot summer months. The trails are well-maintained and scenic.
0
0
This 4,605-acre park covers a large area of Redwood forest. There are many miles of trails, campsites, guided trail rides and more.
0
0
Loop Trail is a well maintained and wide trail that twists through a large old growth forests. The trail has plenty of shade and is dog friendly! Cell service is reported to not be very good, so printing or downloading the route would be the best to not ruin your experience by getting lost.
0
0
This length of singletrack is absolutely stunning. Running through a mixture of small trees and open scrubland, and on a good quality surface, it can't get much better than this.
1
0
The views from the Bald Peak Trail are fantastic, with arid scrubland mixed in with lush trees and vegetation. The elevated position of this trail gives it a really special feeling.
0
0
Calero County Park is a huge park covering over 4,400 acres and featuring a huge lake. Calero Reservoir is definitely the pinnacle of the park, but there are a number of trails and paths that offer different views and pass through different natural ecosystems. Being such a big park, there are a bunch of different trailheads and park entrances that you can utilize.
0
0
Calero County Park is a huge park covering over 4,400 acres and featuring a huge lake. Calero Reservoir is definitely the pinnacle of the park, but there are a number of trails and paths that offer different views and pass through different natural ecosystems. Being such a big park, there are a bunch of different trailheads and park entrances that you can utilize.
1
0
Fossils of marine creatures like clams and oysters can be found in the sandstone of the peaks, hinting at a time when the area was submerged beneath the ocean. The hills around Bald Peaks are home to unique rock formations like chert and rhyolite, attracting hobbyists searching for colorful and interesting specimens.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Uvas Canyon County Park?
Komoot features 4 dog-friendly hiking routes in Uvas Canyon County Park. These trails vary in length and difficulty, offering options for different fitness levels and preferences.
What are the rules for bringing dogs on trails in Uvas Canyon County Park?
Uvas Canyon County Park is very dog-friendly, allowing dogs on all trails and in campgrounds. It is essential that your dog remains on a leash at all times to ensure their safety and the enjoyment of other park visitors and wildlife.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails for beginners or families in Uvas Canyon County Park?
While komoot's listed routes are primarily moderate to difficult, the park itself offers easier options. The Waterfall Loop is a popular, easy to moderate trail suitable for families and dogs, showcasing several waterfalls along Swanson Creek. It's about one mile long and provides a gentle introduction to the park's beauty.
Can I see waterfalls with my dog in Uvas Canyon County Park?
Yes, Uvas Canyon County Park is renowned for its waterfalls, and dogs are welcome to join you on the trails that lead to them. The Waterfall Loop is an excellent choice, winding along Swanson Creek and featuring picturesque cascades like Basin Falls, Black Rock Falls, and Granuja Falls. Late winter and early spring are the best times to see the waterfalls at their fullest after rains.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in Uvas Canyon County Park?
Yes, several loop trails are available for you and your dog. For a moderate challenge, consider the Bald Peaks Loop Trail, which covers about 13 km. Another option is the Bald Peaks Loop, a slightly shorter moderate route at around 10.9 km.
What is the best season for dog-friendly hiking in Uvas Canyon County Park?
The park's shaded paths and mild climate make it accessible year-round. However, late winter and early spring are considered optimal, especially if you want to experience the waterfalls at their most impressive after seasonal rains. The lush environment is also particularly vibrant during these months.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes in the area?
For a more strenuous adventure, the Rancho Canada del Oro and Calero Park Loop offers a difficult 26.4 km hike with significant elevation gain, providing expansive views from higher points. This route is perfect for experienced hikers and their well-conditioned canine companions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails in Uvas Canyon County Park?
The trails in and around Uvas Canyon County Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.97 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's lush natural landscapes, the beauty of its year-round flowing creeks and waterfalls, and the fact that dogs are welcome on all trails, making it a truly inclusive outdoor experience.
Are there any panoramic viewpoints accessible with dogs?
Yes, for those seeking rewarding views, trails like the Knibbs Knob Trail offer significant elevation gain leading to expansive vistas across the valley. While challenging, the climb is worth it for the panoramic scenery, and your dog can accompany you on this adventure.
Where can I find parking for dog-friendly hikes in Uvas Canyon County Park?
Uvas Canyon County Park offers extensive parking facilities. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as the park can get busy. Reservations for day use, including parking, are highly recommended.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on a dog-friendly hike?
Uvas Canyon County Park boasts a rich mix of evergreen forests, with Douglas fir, redwood, madrone, and California laurel. Along the creeks, you'll find sycamore, alder, and bigleaf maple. The park's diverse habitats also make it ideal for nature observation, with opportunities to spot various wildlife and appreciate the rich native flora, all while hiking with your dog.
Most popular routes in Uvas Canyon County Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
