Experience the Best Dog-Friendly Walks in Australia This 2025

Nothing is better than getting closer to nature with your favourite four-legged friend. The dilemma comes in when attempting to choose a place. There are 7,000+ trails Down Under with varying dog-specific restrictions. There’s no wonder nailing down your ideal trail can feel like a trek in itself.  

That’s why we made this list. After filtering out all the walks that aren’t so dog-friendly, we’ve compiled 8 of the best dog-friendly walks in Australia this 2025, and we’ve organized them by difficulty. Stick around for some tips on how to enjoy your adventure to the fullest. 

1.    Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk Sydney East (Difficulty: Easy)

Trail Length: 48 km

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours

Dog Restrictions: Leashed only

Location: Coogee NSW 2031, Australia 

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is among the most beloved beach walks in Sydney. With jaw-dropping coastal and cliff-top sights, there’s no shortage of views to be had. Along the trail, hikers will pass through these gorgeous beaches (in order):

• Bondi Beach
• Tamarama Beach
• Bronte Beach
• Clovelly Beach
• Coogee Beach

You’ll walk smooth flat terrain and climb outdoor staircases - no steep cliffs or rocky terrain. This trail is beginner-approved and appropriate for most skill sets, fitness levels, and pooches. 

2.    Warburton Rail Trail/Yarra Valley Trail in Wandin North, Victoria (Difficulty: Easy) 

Trail Length: 48 km

Time Commitment: 8 to 10 hours

Dog Restrictions: Leashed (unleashed in designated areas)

Location: Yarra Valley, 50 km east of Melbourne CBD

Whether you’re a new hiker or simply want to create some chill memories with your doggo, Warburton Rail Trail is the place to be. You’ll start at Lilydale, hike to Warburton, and finish in Yering. 

As you walk across the asphalt and gravel, you’ll take in the lush forest and mountainous scenery of the Yarra Ranges National Park. And if you’re lucky, you and your canine friend might spot some of the local wildlife - lyrebirds, platypus, or even swamp wallabies. 

3.    Cascade Gardens via Hobart Rivulet Track in Tasmania, Australia (Difficulty: Easy)

Trail Length: 5.3 km

Time Commitment: 1 ¼  hours

Dog Restrictions: None

Location: McRobies Road, South Hobart 7004

The Cascade Gardens, a popular venue for family barbecues and weddings, is an absolute treat for dog lovers and pups who like exploring blooming flora. The colorful flowers and open grassy areas invite your dog to sniff around and release some pent-up energy. 

Lounge under a shade tree and have a dog-friendly picnic or take a leisurely, scenic walk. 

The roads are paved, there’s ample bench seating, and the trail is well-defined for a sweatless hiking experience. And there’s palpable comradery; you’re bound to see others exploring the greenery and flowers with their doggos. 

 Note: Dogs are allowed on and off lead, and park organizers offer dog bag dispensers. 

4.    Minnehaha Falls Track (Difficulty: Easy)

Trail Length: 2.2 km

Time Commitment: 39 minutes

Dog Restrictions: Leashed only

Location: Minnehaha Reserve Carpark, 98 Minni Ha Ha Rd, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

Want to get out with your doggo but don’t have the time for an hours-long hike? The Minnehaha Falls Track is short and sweet, boasting mini pools, a large swimming hole, and some of the most beautiful natural waterfall views. 

Aside from that, be on the lookout for local wildlife (dingos, koalas, bats, yellow-bellied gliders, etc.). You can take your doggy with you to this dog-friendly park - just make sure they’re wearing a quality dog harness at all times. 

5.    Whistlepipe Gully Walk in Mundy Regional Park (Difficulty: Moderate)

Trail Length: 3.5 km

Time Commitment: 1-3 hours

Dog Restrictions: Leashed only

Location: Kalamunda Rd, Forrestfield, Western Australia 6058 Australia 

Are you and Fido looking for a good splash? With flowing water from start to finish, Whistlepipe Gully is a paradise for water-loving pups. 

On this country trail, you’ll take in breathtaking views of Swan Coastal Plain and the distant landscapes of Perth. There’s a mixture of flat terrain, rocky areas, and steep climbs, perfect for anyone looking for a hike with a little more difficulty.

Pro tip: Plan your hike between June and September for the wettest experience, and ensure your dog is leashed. 

6.    Lerderderg Heritage River Walk (Difficulty: Moderate)

Trail Length: 8.8 km

Time Commitment: 1-4 hours

Dog Restrictions: Leashed or unleashed (depending on the area)

Location: 189 Simmons Reef Rd, Blackwood VIC 3458, Australia

The Lerderderg Heritage River Walk is a scenic, dog-friendly walk, perfect for nature lovers and their doggos. This picturesque trail follows the winding Lerderderg River through lush forests, showcasing vibrant ferns, mushrooms, and an array of wildlife. Kangaroos, echidnas, and native bird species call this walk home. 

Most of the trail is flat, but there is some irregular terrain (so be cautious and watchful, especially when exploring off the main path). You’re sure to come across rugged patches that beg for hiking boots…the sturdier, the better. 

 Dogs are always welcome here, and in certain areas, they can explore the natural surroundings leash-free! 

7.    Port Melbourne to Brighton Beach in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (Difficulty: Moderate to Hard)

Trail Length: 14.3 km

Time Commitment: 3 hours

Dog Restrictions: Leashed or unleashed (depending on the area)

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Do you have a soft spot for the beach? An adventure at the Port Melbourne to Brighton Beach Trail is the way to go. It’s a beach-hopping trail with inviting cityscapes, beachy views, and suburban scenes. And when you're all done, you'll end up at a train that takes you back to start.  

Being that this trail is dog-friendly, you’ll see many other pet lovers and pooches along the way (some without a leash). Get your four-legged friend beach-ready and head out for a walk you’ll never forget - you’ll be in good company! 

8.    George Bass Coastal Walk: Kilcunda - Punchbowl (Difficulty: Moderate to Hard)

Trail Length: 15.2 km

Time Commitment: 3-4 hours

Dog Restrictions: Leashed (except in designated areas)

Location: 3515 Bass Hwy, Kilcunda VIC 3995, Australia

Dog owners looking for a serious hike should try this super popular dog-friendly walk. It runs from San Remo to the Bass Highway and features striking cliff-top and ocean sights and rocky terrain. History buffs will love that this route mirrors George Bass’s famous voyage of discovery from over two centuries ago. 

Unlike easier walks, this walk does require you to climb stiles to get over fences. Also, the terrain can be slippery and dangerous after the rain, so check the weather before setting out with your pup. Lastly, remember that this walk can get pretty saturated with dog owners and their dogs, especially during peak times (summer months). 

Don't forget your dog harness! 

How to Make the Most Out of Your Dog-Friendly Walk

After choosing your destination, it's preparation time. Anything can happen on a walk, and your level of preparation can mean the difference between a smooth walk and a literal disaster. Here’s how to make the most of your adventure: 

Get the Essentials Packed

Before setting out for the day, pack everything you’ll need. Water, of course, is essential (for yourself and your dog). Some trails have water fountains, but it’s best not to leave hydration up to chance.

 You'll also need a dog harness set to keep your doggo secured and easily direct them through various terrain types. Most of the time, trails only allow dogs when they're leashed. It’d be a bummer to get to a trail location only to be turned around due to leashing requirements.

Load up with the following items as well:

• Snacks for you and your dog
• A portable bowl for no-stress water breaks
• Sunscreen, especially in the summer months
• A canine first aid kit
• Towels
• Poop bags
• Dog treats and/or food
• A hat

Scope Out the Weather Beforehand

The weather can drastically affect your experience on any trail. Take a peek at the forecast before walking out the door with your dog. If temps will be high, consider setting out early in the day so you'll finish before midday (when the sun is at its hottest). And if rain is forecasted, either postpone your trek or be very careful. The moisture can very quickly make the terrain slick, increasing the risk of falls and other injuries. 

Pay Close Attention to Your Dog at All Times

Your dog may be full of life and energy at home. But they could run out of steam mid-trail. Look out for signs of fatigue, including:

• Quick, heavy panting.
• Intermittent or constant limping.
• A reluctance to continue.

If you spot these signs, take a closer look at your dog and assess whether it makes sense to continue. In some cases, it’d be best to turn around or rest so your doggo can recover.

 Note: Sometimes, the above signs point to injury. Check for cuts on their paws or anywhere else on their body. 

Get Out and Explore with Your Doggo

So, there you have it - 8 of the best dog-friendly walks in Australia this 2025 and tips to help you prepare. We hope you found all the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you explore nature with your dog.