Bay Area Ridge Trail - Vallejo, CA
Bay Area Ridge Trail — A Top Pet-Friendly Hike in Vallejo, California
If you’re searching for a picturesque spot to enjoy a dog-friendly hiking experience in Vallejo, the Bay Area Ridge Trail delivers impressive views, rolling hills, and a genuine connection to nature. This pet-friendly trail welcomes dogs and offers several miles of scenic routes with varying levels of difficulty, perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers accompanied by their furry companions. Locals rave about the panoramic vistas stretching across Benicia, Vallejo, and even to Carquinez Bridge, making this one of the most scenic dog-friendly hiking choices in the area.
The Bay Area Ridge Trail is not just for nature lovers—it’s also great for families with kids, offering kid-friendly hikes and memorable adventures. While the trail isn’t a traditional dog park—there are no fenced or double-gated play areas—leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you explore. Parking is available near residential areas; please be considerate since the trailhead is located close to homes. Come early to beat the crowds and enjoy magical morning fog, or embark on a longer journey towards Lake Herman for an extended hike with your pup!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are welcome on the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Leashes are required.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, this is a well-known local trail network with routes toward Lake Herman and Benicia Community Park.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? The trail is considered kid-friendly and offers enjoyable hikes for families.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available in residential areas near the trailhead; please be respectful of neighbors.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the trail is accessible year-round.
Reviews
Getting here early when the fog is out and it’s a little chilly feels magical. There was even a rather peculiar green bush that felt like a quest moment or sacred guardian so I made sure to pay my respect. I was hesitant to leave a review because I didn’t want to see people on the trail at the same time. Hands down, changed my life. If you’re inside too much and need to reconnect please embark on this journey. Treat it as sacred grounds and it will return the honor back to your soul.
We go to this trail daily i love the view its got different levels of difficulty its a great lil hike for me and my son
Starting from Ascot Pkwy & Georgia St in Vallejo it’s 2.8 miles down to the ball fields in Benicia Community Park. Beautiful walk with panaramic views of Benicia and Vallejo all the way to the Carqueniz Bridge. Exceptional scenery when the hills are green. Some challenging inclines on the way back. An option is to continue on to Lake Herman. Lots of options for modifying the walk.
One of my favorite trails in Vallejo. The hike up the hills test my endurance and or laziness every time. The views are amazing and you can actually take the trail all the way to Lake Herman. It definitely gives me sacred/healing vibes as I always see many people meditating, praying, building rock statues once they proudly reach the top. Theres even a few memorials up there so definitely keep this place clean so it can continue to bless us all with it’s wonderful beauty. Please also be kind and considerate while parking since the trail sits directly across the street from people’s homes. It is definitely a tough hike a probably rate it a 8/10 challenge level but if you can make it it’s definitely worth it!
A nice short trail, It has a few switchbacks but nothing that strenuous. I wanna say it’s around 2.5 miles one way if you stay on the trail, so a 5 mile ish loop. You’re pretty much behind people houses the whole time but when you get to the top, the view ain’t bad. Knocked it one star because some houses don’t have a fence behind them but have dogs that give you a nice scare.