San Pedro Mountain - Dominican Trailhead

San Pedro Mountain is a gorgeous hike, and the San Pedro Mountain -- Dominican Trailhead is the perfect way to get there. This trail begins from the end of Locust Avenue, behind Dominican University. That's where it gets its name. There's no designated parking, so read the signs to be sure you've found a suitable street spot for the duration of your hike. 

Once you're parked and ready, walk out the end of Locust Avenue. There's an unlocked gate you can go through. Once you're on the other side, you're on a fire road! Dogs are allowed to be off leash on fire roads as long as they're under voice control and their owner can leash them if required. This is a great opportunity to let your pup explore and work off the zoomies! 

Though a few trails do branch off, you want to stick to the main traveled path. This should be easy to spot. About a mile and a half into your hike, your road will transition from dirt to paved. You'll also have to transition your dog back to on leash at this point. Your real hike has begun! The trail follows the peaks of San Pedro very closely, so you'll be gaining, losing, and regaining elevation as you go along. The highest point is the Nike Missle Site, a landmark right in your path. Enjoy the halfway point of your hike! 

Once you're ready to face hiking back, leave the missile site. You'll pass through another gate onto a second dirt fire road, and your pup can be off leash again! Follow this road for a mile or so, until you find a dirt track that leads away to your left. Follow that path to go back to the first fire road, closing the loop of your hike! 

San Pedro Mountain -- Dominican Trailhead is a challenging and rewarding hike for humans and dogs alike.