Dog walking in Oak Park

Shadow Ridge

The Oak Canyon Dog Park is the perfect spot to take your furry pal for some off-leash fun and to socialize with some new dogs. The park is divided into two separate areas, one for large dogs and another for small dogs. There are water fountains, benches for humans, and plenty of grass for fetch and rolling in the Oak Canyon Dog Park. It is open from 7 a.m. until dusk, and there is a 200-foot hike from the parking lot to the dog park. Also be aware that there is not a lot of shade at the park since it is still realtively new and the trees haven't fully grown. Don't forget to bring clean-up bags with you when visiting.

Morrison Sutton Valley

Grab Fido and check out the Simi Peak Trail for a fun day out hiking. The trail is a pretty easy 5-mile hike that is moderately trafficked. The hike will take you through the beautiful Santa Monica Mountain National Recreation Area, and can take up to three hours to complete. This trail has an elevation gain of 1397-feet. Once you reach the top of the hike make sure to take photos since the view will be breathtaking. While hiking, your dog needs to stay on leash since there is lots of wildlife in the area. Make sure to bring plenty of water with you.

Malibu Creek

If you and Fido are looking for a smaller dog park, then head over to Calabasas for the Calabasas Bark Park. Only eight miles out of Oak Park, this small dog park is unique since it has a separate area for children to play so the dogs aren't disturbed while running around. The park also has water fountains, benches, and a shaded area. There are wood chips and grass areas, so your dog will love all the areas to run. Locals love how well maintained the park is and says it is a hidden jem in Calabasas. Don't forget your clean-up bags.

North Rancho

Seven miles out of Oak Park is the North Ranch Open Space: Hillcrest Open Space Preserve and Sandstone Hills Trail in Thousand Oaks. This trail is perfect for a weekend hike since it is only 1.7-miles long with a 524-foot elevation gain. While hiking, you will see beautiful native wildflowers, but beware of the snakes and other wildlife that roam around. Your dog is welcome to join you so long as he remains on leash. Don't forget to bring plenty of water with you while you hike, since it can get hot. Locals warn the the hills can get steep, so take breaks if you and Fido need it.

Upper North Ranch

If you and your pup are looking for a hike that is filled with other dogs and easy to do, then look no further then the Oak Canyon Trail. This trail is 2.1-miles long and goes in a loop. Your dog needs to stay on leash while hiking, but will enjoy all the exploring he can do. There are plenty of trees to help provide shade for you and your pup, plus you will get a lovely view of the wildflowers while you hike. Watch out for rattlenskaes, which are often seen on this trail.