Let The Dogs Have Their Day On These 5 Off-Leash Hikes In Oregon
By Sarah McCosham|Published April 04, 2022
×
Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
It’s good to be a dog in Oregon. From our dog-friendly beaches and parks to pup-friendly hotels and resorts, there’s no shortage of fun adventures for folks and their furry BFFs here in the Beaver State. And if you’ve ever dreamed of having an off-leash adventure with your pup, there are some spectacular treks where you can do just that. So review your commands (you’ll want to make sure your pup is under voice control at all times), fill up your water bottles, and hit the trails on these off-leash hikes in Oregon.
At this beautiful trail in Bend, off-leash dogs are allowed from Sept. 15 to April 15. It’s a lovely stretch of river that can be accessed easily; you can choose to go for miles and get to Sunriver, or opt to make the hike as far out and back as you like. Dogs are allowed to swim off-leash in the river any time of year, and you can learn more about Central Oregon's off-leash destinations and trails here.
One of the most beautiful places in Oregon, there are numerous trails within the wondrous wilds of the Wallowas, with some designated off-leash areas within the larger Eagle Cap Wilderness. (Nationally designated parks generally have their own off-leash rules, while Oregon State Parks require pets to be leashed unless specifically designated.) However, given the wild nature of this region, be sure to exercise extra caution and make sure your pup is always within sight and responsive to vocal commands.
The vast majority (95%) of the Deschutes National Forest is open to dogs off-leash. Hiking opportunities vary depending on the time of year you visit (for example, in the winter, dogs are allowed off-leash on 99% of national forest lands managed by the Deschutes National Forest), and there are a variety of trails within this expanse. You can learn more about seasonal dog leash restrictions and rules at the USDA Forest Services website.
A beautiful little gem between Odell and Crescent Lakes, Fawn Lake's under-the-radar status makes it an appealing and less-crowded option for folks hoping to go off-leash with their pups. Be mindful of the signs throughout the trail, however, as certain parts do require dogs to be leashed.
This is a wonderful day hike with clear-blue waters and stunning forest landscapes. Generally considered an easy route, this 7.4-mile adventure winds through some of the most lush mountain scenery in the state. Don't let its length deter you; you'll generally not encounter many other people while exploring, making this a relaxed off-leash expedition for you and your pup!
Here are a few other things to keep in mind when going off-leash with your dog: first, do not let your dog approach other hikers or dogs on the trail, even if he’s friendly. Always ask permission before having your pup sniff out a fellow canine walker. When you approach others on the trail, put your dog in a “sit,” or leash them. And, of course, be sure to pick up after your pup, and pack it out — don’t leave anything behind on the trails!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
