Our Favorite Dog-Friendly Hikes from Fairfax to West Marin

Written By Amanda Sheeren

From your neighborhood dog groomer at Clean Happy Dogs

As dog groomers, we get to hear all about your pups’ adventures—muddy paws, foxtails, sand in every crevice… you name it! And honestly, we love it. There's nothing better than a happy, tired dog who’s just had the time of their life out on the trail.

Since we’re based right here in Fairfax, we thought we’d share some of our favorite dog-friendly hikes in the area—from shady forest strolls to coastal romps. These are the trails we love to recommend to our clients (and take our own dogs on too!).

1. Lake Lagunitas Loop (Fairfax)

  • Distance: ~1.5 miles

  • Vibe: Flat, peaceful, and shaded—perfect for all ages (dogs and humans).

  • Why we love it: It’s a great intro hike for puppies or senior dogs, and the lake views are gorgeous year-round.

  • Dog policy: Leash required.

  • Bonus: Easy to add on Bon Tempe Lake if your pup has extra energy!

2. Kehoe Beach Trail (Point Reyes)

  • Distance: ~1 mile one-way

  • Vibe: Coastal, breezy, and perfect for water-loving dogs.

  • Why we love it: One of the few beaches in Marin where leashed dogs are allowed!

  • Dog policy: Dogs on leash, and only allowed north once you're on the beach.

  • Pro tip: Let your pup go wild in the sand... we’ll be here to rinse it all out later!

3. Roy’s Redwoods (San Geronimo Valley)

  • Distance: ~2 miles, with options to go longer

  • Vibe: Quiet, shady, and magical.

  • Why we love it: Towering redwoods and open meadows make it feel like your dog’s in a fairy tale.

  • Dog policy: On leash (off-leash is sometimes tolerated if your dog is 100% under voice control—but read the signs).

4. Cascade Falls Trail (Fairfax)

  • Distance: ~0.5 miles

  • Vibe: Short, sweet, and a bit splashy if the waterfall's flowing.

  • Why we love it: A great “quick fix” when you want to get out without committing to a big hike.

  • Dog policy: On leash.

  • Groomer note: Watch for mud if it’s recently rained—Cascade loves to send muddy dogs our way!

5. Barnabe Mountain and French Ranch Fire Roads (San Geronimo Valley)

  • Distance: 2–6 miles

  • Vibe: Rolling hills and wide open skies.

  • Why we love it: Fewer crowds, gentle inclines, and beautiful views. Great for dogs who like a bit more space.

  • Dog policy: Leashed.

6. Baltimore Canyon (Larkspur/San Anselmo)

  • Distance: 2–4 miles

  • Vibe: Lush, green, and tranquil.

  • Why we love it: Shaded trails and a creek—plus, not far from town!

  • Dog policy: Leashed.

7. Devil’s Gulch via Samuel P. Taylor State Park

  • Distance: ~5 miles

  • Vibe: Forested and cool—ideal for hot days.

  • Why we love it: Big redwoods and the sound of water—what more could a dog want?

  • Dog policy: Leashed dogs only on fire roads—make sure to follow the rules here.

8. Chileno Valley Open Space Preserve (near Tomales)

  • Distance: 3–5 miles

  • Vibe: Rolling hills and ranch land

  • Why we love it: It feels wide open and wild—and your pup will definitely catch some interesting smells.

  • Dog policy: Leash required. Keep your pup close—there are often cows nearby!

Groomer-Approved Tips:

  • Bring water (for both of you)—many trails don’t have any.

  • Post-hike checkups are a must: We recommend checking your pup for ticks, burrs, and foxtails, especially during spring and summer.

  • Foxtails in the fur? That’s what we’re here for. We do gentle de-shedding and coat cleanups after big adventures.

We love hearing where you and your dogs are exploring. Have a favorite trail we didn’t list? Let us know next time you're in the shop—we might just add it to our rotation.

Until then, happy trails and happy tails!
—Your friends at Clean Happy Dogs 🐾

Amanda Sheeren