Taylor Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve

Green pastures, wildflowers galore, and lots of little critters make Taylor Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve a pawfect spot for an afternoon hike with your furry BFF. Grab the leash and head over for some puptastic fun in the sun!

Taylor Mountain has five different trails to choose from. If your pal is in the mood for a lazy stroll, follow Todd Creek Trail. At less than a mile, it wanders through scenic grasslands and gives your pup the chance to enjoy nature on their own terms. Red Tail Trail is another mellow trail. It begins at the Petaluma Hill Road entrance and meanders through scrub oak and wide open grasslands.  From here, there’s an option to follow a short connector trail to the Western Trail.

The Western Trail is a bit more challenging. It gradually heads up the mountain, so your pal will get a great workout without the aching muscles. If your doggo wants to go all in, take the Eastern Trail. This route is by far the steepest way to the top and will make your pup’s quads kick into high gear. But after trucking up 1,100 feet of elevation, your pal will feel like they conquered the world!

As you hike through the Taylor Mountain wilderness, keep your eyes open for wildlife. Grazing cattle are usually spotted. Look closer and you may see some bunnies, woodpeckers, bluebirds and meadowlarks. A gorgeous array of lupine, poppies, woodland stars, and fiddleneck brightens up the park year round.

Keep in mind all trails are multi-use. You will likely encounter bikers, runners, and equestrians. To maintain the harmonious coexistence of all types of trail users, yield to oncoming traffic and clean up after your pup. Restrooms are available at both the Petaluma Hill and Kawana Terrace entrances. Make sure to bring plenty of water, especially if you are headed up Eastern Trail. Above all else, enjoy spending time with your dog in such a pawsome setting!