The Best Dog-Friendly Walks Around Australia
When it comes to dog-friendly walks, we’re spoilt for choice in Australia. From the bush to the coast to the city – the sky’s the limit. And what’s an epic adventure without your furry friend by your side? So let’s walk through some of the best spots to keep their noses sniffing and tails wagging.
Dog-Friendly Walks Sydney and Beyond
- Narrabeen Lagoon Bush Trail, Northern Beaches
Enjoy an 8.6km circuit in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. This is an on-lead walking trail, where you will experience an abundance of local flora and fauna.
- Rocky Creek Dam, Dorroughby
Inland from Byron Bay, Rocky Creek Dam is a beautiful rainforest reserve with on-leash walking trails, playgrounds and picnic areas.
Dog-Friendly Walks Melbourne and Beyond
- Yarra Bend, Melbourne
Get your dose of fresh air and nature in the heart of Melbourne. Yarra Bend is an on-leash area, sprawling across 260 hectares. There’s plenty of sights and smells for you and your pooch.
- Red Hill Rail Trail, Mornington Peninsula
This walk begins in the centre of Red Hill and continues for 12km along the old railway line to reach Merricks. You can even indulge in some local wine, coffee and produce when you reach Merricks General Store (you’ve earned it).
Dog-Friendly Walks Brisbane and Beyond
- Mount Coot-tha Loop, Brisbane
If you’re up for a challenge, the Mount Coot-tha Loop extends for 9.7km and has some steep, rocky sections. Dogs on leads are welcome and you’ll love the views at the end.
- Tuckeroo Park, Nudgee Beach
Get your dog all tuckered out at Tuckeroo Park. It has a large, off-leash area where your dog can play, swim and even do a doggy obstacle course!
Dog-Friendly Walks Adelaide and Beyond
- Blackwood Forest Recreation Park
12km south of Adelaide in the Mt Lofty Ranges, you’ll find this picturesque dog walking spot. The track is a blend of pine forest and open space – and it’s the only national park in the state where you can exercise your dog off-lead.
- Belair National Park
Choose your adventurous trail in the native bushland of Belair National Park. 13km south of the Adelaide city centre, there’s a plethora of wildlife here, so remember to keep your dog on a lead!
Dog-Friendly Walks Darwin and Beyond
- Marlow Lagoon Pet Park, Palmerston
A doggy wonderland! Take a 20-minute drive from the Darwin CBD and you’ll find a leash-free dog park – complete with an obstacle course! It’s a great spot to train your puppy (or teach an old dog new tricks).
- George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens
Just outside the Darwin CBD, take your best mate for a walk and discover beautiful tropical plant species. There are multiple walks and off-leash sections for everyone to enjoy.
Dog-Friendly Walks Perth and Beyond
- Bells Rapids Walk Trail, Swan Valley
Take in the lush countryside and coastal plains (while your doggo takes in all the smells). The Bells Rapids Walk is a 45-minute drive northeast of Perth and makes the perfect day trip for two best friends!
- Swan River Loop, Perth CBD
Located in the heart of the city, take your dog on a 10km loop around the Swan River. It’s a local’s favourite – and dogs are to be kept on their lead for this one.
Dog-Friendly Walks Hobart and Beyond
- Bridgewater Foreshore Trail
An abundance of birdlife, lush greenery and shallow wetlands. The Bridgewater foreshore trail is a dog-friendly walk that starts at Gunn Street and follows the Derwent River.
- Bay Of Fires Conservation Area
If you’re visiting Tasmania’s iconic Bay of Fires, the good news is that there are some dog-friendly areas within the park. For the ultimate adventure, take your dog camping after your walk!
Dog-Friendly Walks Canberra
- Mt Ainslie Walk, Kokoda Track
A steep ascent, but the outstanding views make it all worthwhile. This walk starts behind the Australian War Memorial and is a popular walk for Canberra locals.
- Lake Burley-Griffin
For an adventure that’s close to the city, walk from ‘bridge to bridge’ around Lake Burley-Griffin. The heart of Canberra, you’ll find walkers, joggers, sailors, kayakers and of course – all the dogs!