Leona Canyon Regional Open Space Preserve

If you want to hike through a scenic wooded canyon with your pup, the Leona Canyon Regional Open Space Preserve is perfect for you! This pawesome preserve has one main trail and two short paths that spur off of the main trail. Altogether, there are around 2.6 miles of trails in this lovely preserve. Dogs are welcome in the preserve both on- and off-leash.

To start your hike, head to Leona Canyon Regional Open Space’s parking lot. Here, you’ll see the trailhead for the 1.3-mile out-and-back Leona Canyon Trail. As you start walking down the trail, you’ll pass by peaceful Rifles Range Creek. The first part of the trail goes through a shady wooded area, and it’s mostly uphill. In total, Leona Canyon Trail has an elevation gain of 470 feet. After you’ve walked for about a mile, you’ll see scenic benches that provide great views of the surrounding hills.

After you’ve rested and relaxed for a few minutes, finish up the last portion of the hike. The trail ends at Merritt College. If you like, you can take a walk around the college — just remember dogs must be on-leash while you’re on campus. After you’re finished exploring the college, head back onto the trail and retrace your steps back to the Leona Canyon Trailhead.

If you’d like to extend your hike, hop onto the Artemisia Trail or the Pyrite Trail. You’ll see signs for these trails when you’re about halfway through the Leona Canyon Trail. Both of these trails will take you uphill, and they provide furrific views of the preserve and the area around it.

Leona Canyon Regional Open Space Preserve is a beautiful canyon preserve with lots of lovely trails that are perfect to do with your dog. Bring some doggy bags so you can clean up after your pup, and have a great time hiking here!