Townsend Park Off Leash Dog Area

Townsend Park in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, right next to Monroeville, is a mixed-used park that allows dogs off leash and is considered a popular dog-romping site, especially in the morning, when dogs just need to get out there and start their day right. The park is sizable: 160 acres with established trails and plenty of water here and about – including natural streams, ponds, and puddles – and tons of wooded and open acreage for a variety of uses. 

Portions of the trails are said to be “challenging” which generally means be prepared to hike up a few hills – but there are so many trails to choose from that there should be something there for everyone and every four-footed companion. The hills are substantial – the highest point has an altitude of 1,350 feet and getting there involves hiking the unfortunately named Heart Attack Hill Trail. 

If that sounds too intimidating, try the Pokeberry Trail, which connects to the Serenity Trail and gets you to the Waggin' Trail. For dogs that are getting on in years, that might be the route to take. While this is largely a hiking and fishing oriented park, dog walkers have had their share of diplomatic snafus with the non-dog-walking park visitors. 

There are pavilions, gazebos, gardens, playing fields, picnic areas and online comments note that there has been some friction generated by uncontrolled dogs. The park, which you can get to from Twin Oaks Drive access points, is not fenced, but it is surrounded at every border by private property. 

If your dog is one that gets away from you from time to time, however, you could try try the nearby Monroeville Dog Park (in Heritage Park off of Saunders Station Road) which is fenced and has “almost everything your dog could want,” which boils down to plenty of space, companionship, grass under their paws and H2O.