Dog-Friendly Trails Near Westminster

While the weather continues to mess with us, take advantage of those lovely, sunny days with a long hike alongside Fido! Our pups love to get out in the sunshine and explore new terrains, you might as well try out some new trails nearby; moreover, that routine loop around the neighborhood can get boring! All the paths listed in this article require your dog to be on a leash; please respect the nature center’s guidelines so all trail users can be safe!

Day Training

Hashawha Loop Trail

Bear Branch Nature Center

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Length: 3.2-mile loop
  • Average Completion: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Popular Activities: Hiking, birding, mountain biking, running
  • Elevation Gain: 331 feet

Shaped like a figure eight, this trail is open year-round and has beautiful views throughout! The Bear Branch Nature Center is a very popular area for various outdoor activities; however, the Hashawha Loop is not well marked, so experts recommend downloading the trail map ahead of time.

Bear Branch Vista Trail Loop

Bear Branch Nature Center

  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Length: 1.1-mile loop
  • Average Completion: 27 minutes
  • Popular Activities: Hiking, walking
  • Elevation Gain: 124 feet

For a shorter, more accessible trail inside the Bear Branch Nature Center, the Vista Trail is an easy half-hour loop! Additionally, this trail is also open year-round and is a hotspot for walkers and hikers daily.

Saw Mill Road West Trail

Union Mills Homestead Park

  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Length: 2.2-mile loop
  • Average Completion: 56 minutes
  • Popular Activities: Hiking, birding, mountain biking, horseback riding
  • Elevation Gain: 298 feet

This area is closed Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for hunting season from September 1st to February 15th. Nevertheless, this trail is quite popular on the weekends due to its uncomplicated nature and beautiful views!

Liberty West-Morgan Runs Trail

Liberty Reservoir Cooperative Wildlife Management Area

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Length: 7.3-mile loop
  • Average Completion: 3 hours 7 minutes
  • Popular Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, running, horseback riding
  • Elevation Gain: 987 feet

The Liberty West-Morgan Runs Trail is not for the faint of heart! This seven-mile loop takes you and your furry friend through the forest to the riverside for breathtaking views. The trail has a 4.5-star rating and over 800 positive reviews on AllTrails.com!

Westminster Park Walk

Westminster Community Park

  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Length: .5-mile loop
  • Average Completion: 10 minutes
  • Popular Activities: Walking, birding, running
  • Elevation Gain: 22 feet

If you’re looking for a short trail to switch up your routine, check out Westminster Community Park for a cute lakeside walk! This little loop has an open grass spot for Fido to run and picnic tables for a fun lunch with your furry or human friends!

Check out these related articles for more trail tips!

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Essential Guide to Hiking With Your Dog