dog friendly hikes in the boston area
Boston gets a bad reputation for being one of the worst dog friendly cities in the U.S. But just because renting in the city is notoriously difficult for pet owners, that doesn’t mean hiking with your pup should be! Whether you’re looking for somewhere to swim or an off-leash playground, I’ve got you covered.
Trail Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Terrain Rating: Very Moderate
Hike In: 10:00AM
Hike Out: 12:21PM
There are plenty of beautiful places in New England. From fall foliage hikes to breathtaking views, these top 5 places are unique and absolutely worth the drive from Boston.
What are your Top 5?
Distance from Boston: 20 minutes
Characteristics: wide trails, open space
Size: 230 acres
Directions: Head on 93-S and take Exit 3 to Ponkapoag Trail (turn left after the highway).
Distance from Boston: 20 minutes
Characteristics: swimming for dogs, off-leash, lots of puppy socialization
Size: 130 acres
Recommended Parking: Google maps will take you to a nice parking lot.
Distance from Boston: 20 minutes
Characteristics: playground, fields, kid friendly, swimming for dogs
Size: 35 acres
Recommended Parking: Around the neighborhood at 133 Jason St in Arlington, here.
Distance from Boston: 10 minutes
Characteristics: very well maintained, fenced off, paved paths, swimming, parking for Cambridge residents only
Size: 162 acres
Distance from Boston: 25 minutes
Characteristics: Great botanical diversity, paved paths
Size: 281 acres
Distance from Boston: 20 minutes
Characteristics: Swimming, convenient, bouldering
Size: 114 acres with Webster Conservation Area
Distance from Boston: 15 minutes
Characteristics: Off-leash, swimming, dog park
Size: 2,575 acres