San Diego's mild weather and coastal geography make it one of the best cities in the country for outdoor exercise with your dog. Whether you prefer a morning jog along the bay or a long bike ride through beach communities, the region offers dozens of paved trails where dogs are welcome.
This guide covers six of the best dog-friendly running and biking trails in San Diego. Each trail offers something different, from flat waterfront paths to routes that pass through parks, neighborhoods, and wildlife areas. After your workout, many of these trails connect to dog-friendly restaurants in San Diego where you can refuel with your pup.
What Makes a Trail Great for Dogs
Not every trail works well for running or biking with a dog. The best options share a few key features.
Paved surfaces are easier on paws and allow for consistent pacing. Wide paths give you room to pass other trail users without incident. Shade matters during San Diego's warmer months. Water access or nearby drinking fountains help keep dogs hydrated.
Dogs must be leashed on all trails listed here. Even athletic dogs can become distracted by wildlife, other dogs, or cyclists passing at speed. A hands-free leash or waist leash works well for runners. For cyclists, a bike-mounted dog attachment or a sturdy short leash keeps your dog safe.
6 Best Dog-Friendly Running and Biking Trails in San Diego
Mission Bay Bike Path
The Mission Bay Bike Path forms a 12-mile loop around one of San Diego's most scenic waterfront areas. The path is flat, paved, and wide enough for runners, walkers, and cyclists to share comfortably.
The trail passes more than 10 public parks along the shoreline. You can start at Crown Point, where parking is plentiful, and work your way around the bay. The path connects to Fiesta Island, where dogs can run off-leash in designated areas after your workout.
For food afterward, Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach both sit within easy reach. Newport Avenue in Ocean Beach has several dog-friendly patios within a few blocks of the trail. The laid-back beach vibe makes it a natural post-run stop.
The trail enforces an 8 mph speed limit, which keeps things safe for everyone. Weekends can get crowded, so early morning sessions work best if you want open space.
Distance: 12 miles (loop)
Surface: Paved
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Biking, running, walking
Parking: Crown Point, De Anza Cove, South Shores Park
San Diego River Trail
The San Diego River Trail runs from Ocean Beach inland toward Mission Valley. The western section offers the smoothest riding and running experience, with a paved path following the river from Dog Beach to Sea World Drive.
Dog Beach sits at the trail's western terminus. After your run or ride, your dog can play off-leash in the sand and surf. Few trails in San Diego offer this kind of direct beach access.
The trail covers about 7 miles one way if you ride from Dog Beach to the Qualcomm Road area. The path has some bumpy sections in the eastern portions, but the stretch near the coast stays well-maintained.
Ocean Beach offers easy access to food and drinks. The neighborhood's main drag on Newport Avenue features tacos, burgers, and craft beer at restaurants with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.
Distance: 7 miles (one way)
Surface: Paved
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Running, biking
Parking: Dog Beach lot, Robb Field
Bayshore Bikeway
The Bayshore Bikeway is a 24-mile circuit around San Diego Bay. The route passes through Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, and downtown San Diego.
About 13 miles of the route runs on car-free bike paths. The rest uses designated bike lanes and routes on low-traffic streets. The Silver Strand section offers some of the best scenery, with views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the bay on the other.
The trail passes the Hotel del Coronado and the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Bird watchers often spot endangered and migratory species along the wetland sections.
Coronado has excellent options for food after your ride. The Ferry Landing area features dog-friendly restaurants with waterfront views. You can also take the ferry back to downtown San Diego if you want to skip part of the return ride.
Families and casual riders may want to turn around at Imperial Beach rather than completing the full loop. The on-street sections through National City and downtown can feel less pleasant than the dedicated paths.
Distance: 24 miles (full loop)
Surface: Paved paths and bike lanes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Biking, long-distance running
Parking: Coronado Ferry Landing, South Shores Park
Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve
Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve offers a different experience from the coastal trails. This 7-mile trail runs through a shaded canyon with creek crossings and natural terrain.
The trail works well for trail running. It stays relatively flat with gentle elevation changes. Dogs love the creek crossings, though you may end up with a muddy pup by the end.
The preserve gets less crowded than beach trails, especially on weekdays. Wildlife is common, including coyotes and rattlesnakes, so keeping your dog leashed is important for safety as well as compliance.
The trail has two main access points: the western trailhead near Sorrento Valley and the eastern trailhead off Black Mountain Road. Both have parking and restrooms.
After your run, Sorrento Valley and Carmel Valley both have dog-friendly dining options nearby.
Distance: 7 miles (one way)
Surface: Dirt and packed earth
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Trail running, hiking
Parking: Sorrento Valley trailhead, Black Mountain Road trailhead
Coast to Crest Trail at San Dieguito Lagoon
The Coast to Crest Trail runs along the San Dieguito River near the North County communities of Del Mar, Solana Beach, and Encinitas. The trail is wide, well-maintained, and popular with runners, walkers, and cyclists.
The section near the lagoon offers water views and bird watching opportunities. The trail connects to Del Mar's North Beach, which allows off-leash dogs from Labor Day through June 15.
This trail works well for both running and biking. The surface accommodates all types of bikes, and the width makes it easy to share with other users.
Del Mar has a strong dining scene with several dog-friendly restaurants on or near the main strip. Many patios welcome dogs, especially in this pet-friendly community.
Distance: 3+ miles (varies by section)
Surface: Packed dirt and paved sections
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Running, biking, walking
Parking: San Andres Drive trailhead
Balboa Park Trails
Balboa Park offers multiple paved paths through one of San Diego's most iconic urban parks. The trails wind past gardens, museums, and open lawns.
The main loop covers about 3 miles of flat, paved terrain. It works well for shorter runs or as a warm-up before exploring the park's other attractions.
Dogs must stay on leash throughout the park. The paths can get crowded on weekends, but early morning visits usually offer more space.
The Hillcrest and North Park neighborhoods border the park. Both have thriving food scenes with dog-friendly patio options. After a morning run, you can grab brunch at one of the many cafes that welcome dogs.
Distance: 3 miles (main loop)
Surface: Paved
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Running, walking
Parking: Multiple lots throughout the park
Tips for Running and Biking with Your Dog in San Diego
Watch the Temperature
San Diego stays mild year-round, but pavement can still heat up during midday hours. Early morning and evening workouts keep paws safe and dogs comfortable.
Touch the pavement with your hand. If it feels too hot to hold for five seconds, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
Bring Water
Most trails lack reliable drinking fountains. Carry a collapsible bowl and enough water for both of you. Dogs need frequent breaks during exercise, especially on longer routes.
Start Slow
Build your dog's endurance gradually if they are new to running or biking. A dog that can walk for an hour may not be ready to run that same distance. Watch for signs of fatigue like heavy panting, lagging behind, or lying down.
Know the Rules
All San Diego trails require dogs to be on leash unless posted otherwise. Some beaches have seasonal restrictions on dog access. Check current rules with San Diego Parks and Recreation before planning your route.
Find Your Next Adventure
San Diego's network of trails makes it easy to stay active with your dog. From flat coastal paths to shaded canyon routes, there is a trail for every fitness level and preference.
After your workout, explore dog-friendly restaurants across San Diego to reward yourself and your pup. Many patios offer water bowls and treats for four-legged visitors.
