Discover the ultimate dog-friendly adventures in Sydney with our guide to the best walks and hikes for you and your furry friend. From the iconic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk to the tranquil bushland trails of Lane Cove National Park, there’s something for every pup and their human companion. Explore hidden gems like the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail or venture off the beaten path with the North Arm Track at Castle Cove. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dog-friendly walks and hikes in Sydney are sure to leave you and your four-legged friend wagging your tails in excitement. So, grab your leash and get ready to embark on a pawsome adventure in Sydney!
Best Dog Walks & Hikes Sydney Highlights
Here are a few highlights from our list of the best dog walks and hikes in Sydney:
- For a scenic coastal trail, try the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk with beautiful views of Sydney’s famous beaches.
- Enjoy the tranquility of the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail, an 8.4 km circuit track around Narrabeen Lakes in Sydney’s north.
- Explore the lush bushland and stunning views of Sydney Harbour at Balls Head Reserve and Carradah Park in Waverton.
- Take a leisurely stroll with your furry friend along the picturesque Glebe Foreshore Walk between Bicentennial Park in Glebe and the Sydney Fish Market in Pyrmont.
- For a peaceful and scenic walk in the heart of Sydney, visit Centennial Parklands with 154-hectares of designated off-leash space for your dog to enjoy.
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash areas, and always clean up after your pet to maintain these beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.
1. Berry Island Reserve
Dogs are very welcome in Berry Island Reserve and on the walking track, but they need to be on a lead. This beautiful reserve offers a peaceful and scenic walk, with stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
The trail is well-maintained and offers a mix of terrain, including bush tracks and boardwalks. The trail also passes through a beautiful picnic area, perfect for a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Berry Island Reserve is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. The reserve offers a tranquil escape from the city, making it a perfect choice for a weekend adventure.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Shirley Road, Wollstonecraft
- End Location: Shirley Road, Wollstonecraft (circuit track)
- Distance: 1 km
- Time to Complete: 30 minutes
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, parking available at the reserve
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XqeGBUyeAn9DEbAX6
2. Centennial Park
The 3.6km circuit walk in Centennial Park is great for getting a workout in for both you and your furry friend, with 154-hectares of designated off-leash space. This beautiful park is a haven for nature lovers and offers a serene environment for a peaceful walk with your dog.
Source: Centennial Parklands
Source: Centennial Parklands
Source: Centennial Parklands
Source: Centennial Parklands
Source: Centennial Parklands
Source: Centennial Parklands
The circuit walk around the park is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the park’s beautiful landscapes. The trail is well-marked and offers a mix of terrain, making it a fun and engaging walk for both you and your dog.
The park also offers a range of facilities, including picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a playground. After your walk, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic by the lake or even take a dip in the designated swimming area.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Centennial Parklands, Paddington
- End Location: Centennial Parklands, Paddington (circuit track)
- Distance: 3.6 km
- Time to Complete: 1-2 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, parking available at the park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BMHwDn9SRCJDi8Bc6
3. Glebe Foreshore Walk
The Glebe Foreshore Walk is a picturesque trail that stretches between Bicentennial Park in Glebe and the Sydney Fish Market in Pyrmont. This walk offers stunning views of the city skyline, the Anzac Bridge, and the serene waters of Rozelle Bay.
The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll with your furry friend. Along the way, you’ll find several parks where dogs are allowed off-leash, giving your pet plenty of opportunities to run and play.
The walk also passes by several cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect choice for a weekend outing. After your walk, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local eateries or visit the bustling Sydney Fish Market for some fresh seafood.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Bicentennial Park, Glebe
- End Location: Sydney Fish Market, Pyrmont
- Distance: 2.2 km
- Time to Complete: 1 hour
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, cafes and restaurants nearby, parking available at Bicentennial Park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bfSpfYYQRVv3TC83A
4. Barangaroo Reserve
Barangaroo Reserve is a stunning urban park located on the edge of Sydney’s bustling CBD. This park offers a peaceful and scenic walk along the harbour, making it a great choice for a walk with your dog.
The park features a beautifully landscaped area with native Australian plants and trees, providing a tranquil environment for a leisurely stroll. The park also offers stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city skyline, making it a great spot for photography.
Barangaroo Reserve is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this park is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney
- End Location: Barangaroo Reserve, Sydney (circuit track)
- Distance: 2 km
- Time to Complete: 1 hour
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, parking available at the park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PpyjFeQe1Mgi1Lky6
5. Sydney Park
Sydney Park is a large recreational area located in the inner-city suburb of Alexandria. This park offers a great space for a walk with your dog, with several off-leash areas where your furry friend can run and play.
The park features a series of beautiful wetlands, rolling hills, and scenic lookouts, providing a tranquil environment for a leisurely stroll. The park also offers a range of facilities, including picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a playground, making it a great choice for a family outing.
Sydney Park is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this park is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Sydney Park, Alexandria
- End Location: Sydney Park, Alexandria (circuit track)
- Distance: 4 km
- Time to Complete: 1-2 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, parking available at the park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/w3Bf9b1a7faep9c37
6. Royal National Park
The Royal National Park is a vast natural playground located just south of Sydney. This park offers a range of walking trails that wind through lush bushland, along stunning coastal cliffs, and past beautiful beaches.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The park also offers a range of facilities, including picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and camping sites, making it a great choice for a weekend adventure.
The Royal National Park is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this park is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Hard
- Start Location: Royal National Park, Sutherland
- End Location: Royal National Park, Sutherland (circuit track)
- Distance: Varies depending on trail
- Time to Complete: Varies depending on trail
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, camping sites, parking available at the park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QBsXKduZ1ww2jZNn8
7. Bicentennial Park
Bicentennial Park is a beautiful park located in the suburb of Homebush. This park offers a great space for a walk with your dog, with several off-leash areas where your furry friend can run and play.
The park features a series of beautiful wetlands, rolling hills, and scenic lookouts, providing a tranquil environment for a leisurely stroll. The park also offers a range of facilities, including picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a playground, making it a great choice for a family outing.
Bicentennial Park is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this park is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Bicentennial Park, Homebush
- End Location: Bicentennial Park, Homebush (circuit track)
- Distance: 4 km
- Time to Complete: 1-2 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, parking available at the park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6aEtSXRApSix7Lor5
8. Cooks River Cycleway
The Cooks River Cycleway is a shared-use path for cyclists and pedestrians that stretches from Settlers Park in Ryde to Botany Bay in Kyeemagh. This trail offers a peaceful and scenic walk along the Cooks River, making it a great choice for a walk with your dog.
The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll pass by several parks, sports fields, and picnic areas, providing plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation.
The Cooks River Cycleway is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this trail is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Settlers Park, Ryde
- End Location: Botany Bay, Kyeemagh
- Distance: 23 km
- Time to Complete: 5-6 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, sports fields, parking available at Settlers Park and Kyeemagh
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EvssVpyfbyBJJstu8
9. Narrabeen Lagoon Trail
The Narrabeen Lagoon Trail is a stunning 8.4 km circuit track around Narrabeen Lakes in Sydney’s north. This trail is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The path is well-maintained and flat, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll with your furry friend.
The trail is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, providing a beautiful backdrop for your walk. You might even spot some local wildlife! The trail also offers several picnic spots, perfect for a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
As you walk along the trail, you’ll come across several points of interest, including the Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park, the Tramshed Arts and Community Centre, and the Bilarong Reserve. Each of these spots offers unique attractions, making your walk even more enjoyable.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: Narrabeen Park Parade, Narrabeen
- End Location: Narrabeen Park Parade, Narrabeen (circuit track)
- Distance: 8.4 km
- Time to Complete: 2-3 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, parking available at various points along the trail
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jcm2Z1iFMsApxGCV7
10. Lane Cove National Park
Lane Cove National Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in the heart of Sydney. This park offers a range of walking trails that wind through lush bushland, along the river, and past scenic lookouts.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The park also offers a range of facilities, including picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a playground, making it a great choice for a family outing.
Lane Cove National Park is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this park is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- Start Location: Lane Cove National Park, North Ryde
- End Location: Lane Cove National Park, North Ryde (circuit track)
- Distance: 3 km
- Time to Complete: 1-2 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, parking available at the park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q7VXJSo6chkGnSbg6
11. Lake Parramatta Circuit Walk
The Lake Parramatta Circuit Walk is a recreational area with three marked bush walking trails. This beautiful reserve is a haven for nature lovers and offers a serene environment for a peaceful walk with your dog.
The circuit walk around the lake is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding bushland. The trail is well-marked and offers a mix of terrain, making it a fun and engaging walk for both you and your dog.
The reserve also offers a range of facilities, including picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and a playground. After your walk, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic by the lake or even take a dip in the designated swimming area.
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- Start Location: Lake Parramatta Reserve, North Parramatta
- End Location: Lake Parramatta Reserve, North Parramatta (circuit track)
- Distance: 4.2 km
- Time to Complete: 1-2 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, BBQ facilities, parking available at the reserve
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3RjtC33jyxPqWdvV7
12. The Bay Run
The Bay Run is a 7km long shared-use path for cyclists and pedestrians around Iron Cove in Sydney’s inner west. This popular trail offers stunning views of the water and is a great place for a walk or run with your dog.
The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll pass by several parks, sports fields, and picnic areas, providing plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation.
The Bay Run is a great choice for those looking for a scenic and enjoyable walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this trail is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- Start Location: King George Park, Rozelle
- End Location: King George Park, Rozelle (circuit track)
- Distance: 7 km
- Time to Complete: 1.5-2 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, sports fields, parking available at King George Park
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3ptmSpjUixymtr3H7
13. Balls Head Reserve and Carradah Park
Located in Waverton on Sydney’s lower north shore, Balls Head Reserve is a scenic bushland oasis overlooking Sydney Harbour. This reserve offers a peaceful and scenic walk, with stunning views of the city skyline, the Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House.
The trail is well-maintained and offers a mix of terrain, including bush tracks and boardwalks. The trail also passes through Carradah Park, a beautiful park with a range of facilities, including picnic areas and a playground.
Balls Head Reserve is a great choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk with their dog. The reserve offers a tranquil escape from the city, making it a perfect choice for a weekend adventure.
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- Start Location: Balls Head Drive, Waverton
- End Location: Balls Head Drive, Waverton (circuit track)
- Distance: 1.5 km
- Time to Complete: 1 hour
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, parking available at the reserve
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ij2sPyFLrHc8ePyU7
14. Manly to Spit Bridge Walk
The Manly to Spit Bridge Walk is a stunning coastal trail that offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. This trail is a must-visit for nature lovers and offers a great workout for both you and your dog.
The trail winds through a series of beautiful beaches, bushland, and scenic lookouts, providing plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation. Along the way, you’ll also pass by several cafes and restaurants, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.
The Manly to Spit Bridge Walk is a great choice for those looking for a scenic and enjoyable walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this trail is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- Start Location: Manly Wharf, Manly
- End Location: Spit Bridge, Mosman
- Distance: 10 km
- Time to Complete: 3-4 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, cafes and restaurants nearby, parking available at Manly Wharf and Spit Bridge
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6LXgegbQDbVUqCbaA
15. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a stunning trail that offers breathtaking views of Sydney’s famous beaches. This trail is a must-visit for nature lovers and offers a great workout for both you and your dog.
The trail winds through a series of beautiful beaches, cliffs, and scenic lookouts, providing plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation. Along the way, you’ll also pass by several cafes and restaurants, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is a great choice for those looking for a scenic and enjoyable walk with their dog. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Sydney, this trail is a must-visit.
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- Start Location: Bondi Beach, Bondi
- End Location: Coogee Beach, Coogee
- Distance: 6 km
- Time to Complete: 2-3 hours
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, cafes and restaurants nearby, parking available at Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FMtzr4NKabz9F3Bb9
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these walks and hikes suitable for all dogs?
Most of the walks and hikes listed in the article are suitable for dogs of all sizes and breeds. However, some trails may be more challenging than others. It’s always a good idea to check the difficulty rating and distance of the walk or hike to ensure it’s suitable for your dog’s fitness level and abilities.
Are there any restrictions for dogs on these walks and hikes?
While all the walks and hikes listed in the article are dog-friendly, some areas may have restrictions such as requiring dogs to be on a leash at all times. Some parks also have designated off-leash areas where dogs can run and play freely. Always check the specific rules and regulations for each location before you visit.
What facilities are available at these locations?
Most of the locations listed in the article have facilities such as toilets, picnic areas, and parking. Some locations also have BBQ facilities and playgrounds. The specific facilities available at each location are listed in the article.
Can I access these locations using public transport?
Many of the locations listed in the article are easily accessible by public transport. However, for some locations, it may be more convenient to drive. Always check the specific transport options for each location before you visit.
Are there any cafes or restaurants nearby where I can grab a bite to eat?
Some of the walks and hikes listed in the article pass by cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. However, not all locations have food and drink facilities nearby, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and water, especially for longer walks and hikes.
