The Best Fall Trails to Visit This Season in Los Angeles 🍂🐾
As the summer heat gives way to cool autumn breezes, it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore Los Angeles with your furry friend! Here are some of the best dog parks and trails to visit this fall in the City of Angels.
Fryman Canyon Loop – Studio City
Tired of the packed Runyon Canyon trails? Fryman Canyon offers a quieter alternative, with lush greenery, scenic views, and a relaxing 3-mile loop that’s perfect for fall mornings. This dog-friendly trail is a blend of dirt paths and shaded roads, making it ideal for sensitive paws.
Dog Tip: Start early to catch the cool breeze, and make sure to leash up—plenty of squirrels to chase along the way!
Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve – Calabasas
Often overlooked, this 2,983-acre preserve (sometimes called Ahmanson Ranch) offers sprawling, dog-friendly trails with far fewer people than popular LA parks. Explore the Lasky Mesa Trail, where you’ll pass oak groves and rolling hills glowing with autumn hues.
Dog Tip: The trail offers little shade, so morning or late afternoon visits are best for cooler conditions.
Corral Canyon Park – Malibu
This serene coastal park is tucked away in the hills above Malibu, offering quiet trails with stunning views of the Pacific. The Backbone Trail segment here is dog-friendly, with a gradual incline and ocean breeze to keep things cool for your pup. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding canyon and Malibu coastline while your dog sniffs along the winding trail.
Dog Tip: Keep your dog leashed—wildlife like deer and hawks are common in this area.
Lake Hollywood Park and Reservoir–
Hollywood Hills
This fenced, quiet park beneath the iconic Hollywood sign offers dogs plenty of room to play off-leash in the cooler autumn air. The Lake Hollywood Reservoir Trail, a scenic 3.3-mile path, is also dog-friendly (leash required) and offers peaceful views of the water surrounded by colorful fall foliage.
Dog Tip: Early morning visits mean fewer crowds and more space for your dog to roam freely.
Malibu Creek State Park – Calabasas/Malibu
For those who love adventure, Malibu Creek State Park offers picturesque views and miles of scenic trails. While dogs are not allowed on all trails, many paths near the campground are dog-friendly and ideal for crisp fall hikes.
Dog Tip: Pack a blanket and picnic—there are several spots to sit and soak up the season with your four-legged friend!
Eaton Canyon Natural Area – Pasadena
Eaton Canyon is a fantastic spot for a fall hike with your pup, featuring shaded trails, seasonal wildflowers, and gentle streams. Dogs are welcome on-leash along the Eaton Canyon Trail, which offers scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and even a small waterfall (though water flow is reduced in fall).
Dog Tip: Mornings are the best time to avoid crowds and catch cooler weather. Don’t forget water for your dog—while there are some stream crossings, they may run low during fall.
Want to join the pack?
Consider scheduling an excursion with The Dog Profesor! We offer group outings and adventures that allow your dog to socialize and explore with a trusted team. Excursions are a great way to discover new trails while ensuring your pup gets plenty of exercise and fun.
Contact us for more information and give your dog the chance to enjoy the best of fall in Los Angeles! 🍁🐕