Dog walking in Elmhurst

Middle Village

The Middle Village neighborhood gives a guess in the name where it might be located, and if you didn't guess in the middle of Queens, then you're wrong. As the southwestern neighbor of Elmhurst, and only 2 miles away, the neighborhood acts as a second home to many human and dog residents of Elmhurst. The region hosts the Juniper Valley Park, a park that spans over half a mile and has over 2 miles of paved trails, just within the park. Dogs are welcome on trails and open fields as long as they remain on a leash. Humans have access to clean-up stations and trash bins, but must bring water for Fido.

Maspeth

Maspeth was the first village in the Queens area, and was established in 1635. Although the oldest, the city is still bustling with life. Being only two minutes away from Elmhurst, the area is one of the top destinations for residents because of Maurice Park. The 4-acre tract is dog-friendly and has a long, shaded trail that winds through the park, with scenic views of the tall trees, open fields and plenty of other dogs. If you're looking for something quieter, head south to Frontera Park, a tiny corner park with basketball courts, a playground and a shaded walking trail that spans this green space. Features of this park include trash bins and benches.

Glendale

Located on the southwestern edge of Queens, the Glendale neighborhood is only 4 miles from the center of Elmhurst. Most dog owners head down to the region for one reason, Highland Park. The park is packed with dense forests and shaded trails, and offers over 22 benches throughout the park to rest or view the Highland Pond. Dogs are allowed throughout the park, but must remain on a leash at all times. Although in a popular neighborhood, the park is mostly known for its natural beauty, and humans must come prepared with clean-up bags and water.

Fresh Meadows

You'll find plenty of fresh meadows in the Fresh Meadows neighborhood, which is only five miles away from Elmhurst. About a fourth of the community is taken up by green grassy fields, which is a rarity in a region in New York City. The Cunningham Park Dog Run has a double gated entrance to a fenced dog park that allows for some serious off-leash play. For more outdoor fun, check out Cunningham Park and explore 2 hours of walking trails maintained by the park. Be sure to grab a map before you go, because you can get lost!

South Jamaica

South Jamaica is as you probably guessed, south of the Jamaica Neighborhood. Although one of the farther neighborhoods from Elmhurst at 7.5 miles, the trip is worth it when you find the 15-acre park of Baisley Pond Park. What park in New York has 15 acres? Not many, which makes this one a rarity. All leashed dogs are allowed into the park and can travel on the trails, go fishing at the pond, or use the wi-fi hotspot. Dogs weren't the first furry creatures allowed in the park though! During the early 1900s, workers found Mastodon bones here!