The Inland Empire doesn’t always get the credit it deserves for outdoor recreation, but dog owners who live here know the truth: when it comes to hiking with your pup, you’ve got access to some genuinely spectacular terrain right in your backyard.
From the base of the San Gabriel Mountains to the foothills above Redlands, there’s an incredible range of trails — and most of them are dog-friendly, at least where dogs are allowed at all. Here’s a breakdown of the best options, organized by area.
Near Rancho Cucamonga and Upland
Cucamonga Peak Trail This one is for the serious hikers. The trail climbs into the San Gabriel Mountains through the Angeles National Forest, and while it’s challenging (about 12 miles round trip with significant elevation gain), the payoff is stunning. Dogs must be on leash, and you’ll need to bring all the water for yourself and your dog — there’s no reliable water source on the trail. Pack it out too, including any waste.
The Pacific Electric Trail (PE Trail) Not a wilderness trail, but one of the most accessible and dog-friendly routes in the IE. This paved multi-use trail runs for miles through Rancho Cucamonga, Alta Loma, and Upland. It’s flat, wide, and perfect for dogs who want a good walk without the elevation. Waste stations are scattered along the route, but bring your own bags anyway.
Etiwanda Falls Trail One of the most popular short hikes in the area, and for good reason — the waterfall at the end is genuinely beautiful, especially after winter rains. Dogs are allowed on leash. It gets crowded on weekends, so early morning is the move. The trail is about 3 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain.
Stoddard Peak A hidden gem in the Cucamonga foothills. The trailhead is tucked away and the hike itself is moderately challenging, but the views of the valley below are incredible. You’ll rarely encounter a crowd up here.
Near Fontana and Rialto
Lytle Creek Area Lytle Creek Road leads up into the San Bernardino Mountains and offers multiple access points to trails and creek walking. Dogs love the water, and the scenery is beautiful year-round. Be aware of seasonal closures and fire conditions — always check before you go.
Jurupa Hills Regional Park Located between Fontana and Jurupa Valley, this park offers trails with decent elevation and great views of the valley. It’s not as dramatic as the mountain trails, but it’s easy to access and consistent throughout the year.
Near Redlands and San Bernardino
Crafton Hills Open Space Preserve This preserve in Yucaipa offers several miles of trails with great views and interesting geology. Dogs on leash are welcome. It’s drier than the mountain trails, so early morning visits in summer are essential.
San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary A quieter option near Redlands, this nature area has several loop trails through native habitat. It’s relatively flat and easy, making it a good option for older dogs or puppies who aren’t ready for serious elevation.
Tips for Responsible Trail Hiking with Dogs
Pack more water than you think you need. Dogs get hot and dehydrated faster than we do, especially on exposed trails in the IE heat. The American Kennel Club recommends roughly one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day — more in hot weather and during exercise.
Always pick up waste on trail. Trail waste is genuinely worse than park waste because it’s not being cleaned up by a maintenance crew — it stays there, breaks down slowly, and contaminates water sources. Bring bags and use them. Pack the bags out with you; do not leave them on the side of the trail.
Check for seasonal fire and wildlife closures. San Bernardino National Forest and Angeles National Forest both implement seasonal closures, and conditions can change quickly. Check Recreation.gov and the relevant forest service website before heading out.
Know your dog’s limits. Not every dog is built for a 12-mile mountain hike. Know your dog’s fitness level, check their paws for heat and abrasion, and be honest about when a trail is too demanding.
After a good hike, your dog’s going to need some recovery time — and your yard is going to need some attention too. If regular yard cleanup isn’t your favorite post-adventure activity, DooGoodScoopers has you covered. We service homes throughout the Inland Empire so your outdoor space is always ready for the next adventure.
