Dog walking in Palm Springs

Idyllwild

The community of Idyllwild truly cherishes its fluffy residents -- to the point of even electing a golden retriever as their mayor! Local pups prefer to do their shopping at Mountain Paws. This charming boutique offers pet necessities such as sweaters, toys, and freshly baked treats made locally by Mrs. Pickles Pantry. A half-mile from the town center is the Idyllwild Dog Park, which provides these cherished inhabitants a great place to socialize. Features include double-entry gates, poop scoops, doggie bags, and even tennis balls! Several hiking trails provide scenic pathways for both canines and bipeds to get their exercise. Most restaurants in the area offer dog-friendly dining options. Local dogs agree that this community is one of the best, paws-down! 

Palm Desert Center

Palm Desert provides many creature comforts for local and visiting pooches. The Venus De Fido Day Spa is a favorite for laid-back pooches, offering a luxurious retreat for pets and their companions. This swanky spot features facials and massages for humans, as well as mud baths, grooming, and an air-conditioned fitness unit for pups. There is even café within the spa! Venus De Fido is open daily, but appointments are advised. Just across the street is the local Civic Center Dog Park. University Dog Park and Freedom Dog Park are other great options for a leash-free romp in the area. With all these facilities and so much more, you will be certain this town has truly “gone to the dogs”! 

Mountain Center

Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, this area is jam-packed with dog-friendly hiking trails for any skill level. The Toro Peak Trail is perfect for novice hikers, offering a scenic 3.5-mile hike through the San Bernardino Forest. The trek will take approximately an hour and a half, and is considered one of the easier hikes in the area. For the more serious hikers, there is the Sheep Mountain Trail. This picturesque 12.5-mile trail is not for the faint of heart. The Sheep Mountain Trail is considered to be extremely difficult, and only to be traversed by experienced hikers. Although arduous, the views make the rough terrain worthwhile. Make sure you bring plenty of water, and that your pup remains leashed for his safety!

Cahuilla Hills

The Cahuilla Hills area offers plenty of room for your pup to stretch his legs, with the two nature parks and several hiking trails. The 27-acre Cap Homme/Ralph Adams Park boasts an impressive off-leash area. The leash-free zone is not fenced, though -- owners should take care to keep their pups under voice command and in sight. There are also several trails to explore, but beware -- they are very strenuous! Your hound must remain leashed when on the park trails, and visitors are urged to bring plenty of water. Nearby Cahuilla Hills park offers 26 acres of undeveloped space for your leashed canine to explore, as well as a sports complex and multi-use trails for visitors. You and your pet are bound to work up an appetite here, so pack a lunch! 

Greater Palm Springs