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The Best Dog Walking Locations in Each Australian State

Do you have a dog walk bucket list? For dog owners, the diversity of landscapes across Australia offers the best of all worlds. The diversity of landscapes and stunning scenery make every Australian state a paradise for both dog parents and their dogs. But where are the perfect walks for you and your dog? Here are our top walks in each state for tail wags and sniff-worthy adventures.

New South Wales

Wolli Creek Regional Park

Beloved by local dog owners–and it’s easy to see why! This park juxtaposes lush foliage against breathtaking stone. With plenty of striking areas to explore, this park offers sights, scents, and sounds visit after visit.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out Cahill Park Off Leash Dog Park. It’s just a stone’s throw away.

Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk

This iconic 8km walk offers breathtaking views of the ocean and sandstone cliffs. It also has plenty of opportunities for your pup to paddle in the surf. If you have the time, don't forget to stop for a coffee and dog biscuit at a beachside cafe!

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Mostly paved paths with some stairs and inclines.

Blue Mountains National Park

Get in touch with the wilderness on a walk through this stunning park, with World Heritage-listed wilderness. While some areas of the park are off limits to dogs, there are plenty places that you can explore with your dog on lead. We recommend the Wentworth Falls Lookout Trail. It is a short and easy 2km return walk with breathtaking views of the valley below.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Short trail with some stairs and steep sections.

Victoria

Great Ocean Road

This road may be known for its coastal drive popularity, but it is also a dog walkers paradise. You really cannot go wrong, no matter which route you choose. Choose from sandy beach strolls of Anglesea or Lorne, or strap on your hiking boots and venture out on the Great Ocean Walk. All the views are top-notch!

Difficulty: Varies depending on the walk chosen.

Yarra Bend Park

Looking for the perfect day out? Yarra Bend Park is pawfect for romping with your dog. Just don’t forget your leash. This park, in the centre of Melbourne, offers a variety of trails, lakes, and wetlands. We recommend The Main Trail, which is a 4km loop–perfect, no matter the weather, as long as your dog’s by your side and on their leash.

Difficulty: Easy. Mostly flat, paved paths.

Dandenong Ranges

When you need a break from the city, a walk here will fill you with joy! The villages of Dandenong Ranges offer plenty of charm while the forests offer a bit more of a wild walk!

We recommend the Olinda Track. It’s a moderate 5km trail that takes you among giant eucalyptus trees.

Difficulty: Moderate. Winding trail with some steep sections and uneven terrain.

Queensland

Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens

Exercise your dog while taking in the gardens or strolling on the boardwalk. Your dog will love all the unique scents, and the fresh air is unbeatable. Plus, there’s an off leash dog park where your best friend can make a new friend or two. You can even pack a picnic and make a day of it!

Mount Coot-tha Forest Park

Looking for unforgettable views? Take a dog walk to the summit of Mount Coot-tha. The panoramic views of Brisbane will truly take your breath away!
We recommend the Summit Trail. It is a bit of a challenge at a 4km climb, but we promise the reward is well worth it!

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. Steep climb with stairs and uneven terrain.

North Gorge Walk

North Gorge Walk will help you get your steps in while you take in the crystal clear ocean and the dramatic landscape. This is one of the few places in Australia and beyond where you can take in marine life while kangaroos forage nearby.

The boardwalk makes the journey pretty easy and keeps your dog within sight. Just be sure to keep your dog on leash, since there are critters about.

South Australia

Glenelg Beach

Ever heard of this one? It’s a best-kept secret of South Australia. This beachside suburb is a dog-walking paradise. There are plenty of chances for your dog to enjoy the sand between their toes and feel the surf on their paws. The jetty is also a great way to stay dry while getting out among the waves.

Difficulty: Easy. Wide, open beach with flat terrain.

Adelaide Hills

Looking to escape the city? Explore the picturesque hills and villages of the Adelaide Hills. We recommend breaking up the Heysen Trail into a few day hikes. Be sure to keep your dog on-lead, since this trail is known for its wildlife.

Difficulty: Varies depending on the section.

Barossa Valley

For wine connoisseurs with doggo's, Barossa Valley is a go-to! Several wineries in the Barossa Valley welcome leashed dogs, so you can enjoy a glass of wine while your best friend enjoys the fresh air and natural beauty of the vineyards.

Difficulty: Easy. Mostly flat paths.

Western Australia

Kings Park

This massive is located at the heart of Perth and offers a variety of fun environments for dog walks, including trails, gardens, and lakes. The Law Walk hike is ideal for dogs and their owners. Do be mindful some areas including the boardwalk are off limits to dogs. It's alight with blooming tropical plants in the botanical garden and an easy-to-traverse trail.

Difficulty: Easy. Mostly flat, paved paths.

Whistlepipe Gully, Kalamunda
This trail is a beautiful choice during Autumn and Spring to take you dog on lead through the winding gully! In Spring you will be able to enjoy the wild flowers and in Autumn after some seasonal rain, there is usually plenty of flowing water in the creeks!

Difficulty: Medium, short steep hills and 3.6km loop

Lesmurdie Falls, Mundy Regional Park

Just east of Perth, you will find spectacular rolling hills with several water falls that make for a fun experience for your dog. This park has some of out favorite lookouts. We recommend stopping and listening to the sound of the water on the Falls Trail or Foot of the Falls Trail.

Tasmania

Montezuma Falls

Lace up your boots and set out on an adventure! Montezuma Falls comes with record-breaking elevation gain, but the rigor is worth it. The falls are some of the most dramatic you will find. Just remember to bring your dog’s leash and pack water and a collapsible dog bowl.

Mount Wellington

For those with an adventurous spirit, there are few dog walks as fun as those found at Mount Wellington. We recommend the Springs to Lenah Valley Track, the Fern Tree to Neika track, and along the Sphinx Rock loop. Just be sure you check a map to be sure you know which areas permit dogs and which do not.

Reminders to Dog Owners Setting Out on an Adventure

Prepare for a successful outing with your doggo. Always clean up after your dog and be respectful of other park users. We also suggest you make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention–this protects wildlife and your dog. Always carry extra water, especially on longer walks.

Park Pawfection

While national parks may allow dogs on many trails, there are restrictions that often apply, like lead requirements, designated walking areas, and wildlife protection regulations. So, be sure to check the park website before heading out.

Beach Safety

Always be mindful of tide times and potential dangers like strong currents or riptides, especially if your dog enjoys swimming.

Enjoy One of the Best Dog Walks Australia Has to Offer

We hope that you will make lasting memories with your dog on one of these amazing Australian walks. Just remember when picking your next destination dog walk, be sure to consider your dog’s age and health.

Dont forget to tag #petzyo if you take your doggo on any of the above walks!

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