Gilbert's Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails: From the Riparian Preserve to San Tan Mountain

Hiking with Dogs in the East Valley

Gilbert may be known for its suburban neighborhoods and great restaurants, but it's surrounded by incredible hiking opportunities. From easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain scrambles, there's a trail for every dog and owner.

1. Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 4.5 miles of trails Location: 2757 E. Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert

The Riparian Preserve is Gilbert's hidden gem. This urban wildlife area features:

• Flat, paved and unpaved trails around multiple ponds
• Incredible bird watching (200+ species)
• Shaded rest areas
• Relatively quiet on weekday mornings

Dog Rules: Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash at all times. Please clean up after your dog—this is a wildlife preserve. Best Time: Early morning year-round; avoid midday in summer.

2. San Tan Mountain Regional Park

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Distance: Multiple trails from 1–7 miles Location: 6533 W. Phillips Rd, Queen Creek (10 min from Gilbert)

San Tan is the go-to for Gilbert dog owners who want a real desert hiking experience:

• Well-maintained trails with varied terrain
• Beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery
• Multiple trailheads with parking

Top Trails for Dogs:

• San Tan Trail Loop (2.3 miles) — Easy, wide, great for beginners
• Moonlight Trail (1 mile) — Short and scenic
• Goldmine Trail (5.8 miles) — For dogs and owners who want a workout

Dog Rules: Leashed dogs allowed on all trails. $7 per vehicle parking fee. Best Time: October through April; summer hikes must be before 8 AM.

3. Usery Mountain Regional Park

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Distance: Multiple trails Location: 3939 N. Usery Pass Rd, Mesa (20 min from Gilbert)

Usery Mountain offers stunning views and well-maintained trails:

• Wind Cave Trail (3.2 miles) — The most popular trail with a cave overlook
• Merkle Trail (1.5 miles) — Easy and accessible
• Pass Mountain Trail (7.4 miles) — A challenging loop with panoramic views

Dog Rules: Leashed dogs welcome. Bring extra water—trails can be exposed.

4. Tonto National Forest Trails

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Distance: Varies Location: Various access points east of Gilbert

For more adventurous hikers, Tonto National Forest offers:

• Remote desert trails with minimal crowds
• Creek crossings (seasonal)
• Extended backcountry options

Dog Rules: Dogs should be leashed or under voice control. Watch for wildlife.

Trail Safety Tips for Dogs

Hydration

• Bring at least 1 liter of water per hour for your dog
• Carry a collapsible bowl
• Offer water every 15–20 minutes, not just when your dog seems thirsty

Paw Protection

• Check trail surface temperature before starting
• Consider dog boots for rocky terrain
• Inspect paws at every rest stop for cuts or embedded thorns

Wildlife Awareness

• Rattlesnakes — Keep your dog on trail and watch where they sniff
• Cactus — Keep dogs away from jumping cholla and prickly pear
• Scorpions — Check resting spots before your dog lies down
• Javelinas — Keep your distance; they can be aggressive toward dogs

Know When to Turn Back

• If your dog is panting excessively, drooling heavily, or lagging behind, it's too hot or too far
• Carry them if they stop—don't force them to walk
• Heat stroke is a medical emergency

Post-Hike Care

After a trail adventure, your dog will benefit from:

• A thorough paw inspection
• Tick and burr check
• A cool rinse or bath
• Plenty of rest

After a big hike, your pup deserves a professional cleanup. Book a bath and we'll get the trail dust out!