A perfect way to enjoy the fresh air is by going on a hike with your pup. But before you pack up the car, it’s important to research trails that will suit you and your furballs’ needs. Today, we’ll check out six great trails in the St. Petersburg area that will be great for you and Fido, no matter the experience level. You’ll be glad you got out and enjoyed some fun in nature with these dog-friendly hiking trails!

Clam Bayou Nature Park Loop

This trail is a 0.8-mile loop that takes only fifteen minutes to complete. This is a perfect hike for those who are beginners or senior dogs. The short but scenic hike is beautiful, and you’ll see plenty of wildlife during your journey. This is an excellent choice for a longer day of adventure because it has multiple water access points off the main trail. Here, you can paddle board or kayak, two more great outdoor activities to enjoy with your dog.

Clam Bayou is a free park, and dogs must stay on a leash when exploring the park.

Soldier’s Hole Trail

Soldier’s Hole is a bit longer, clocking in at a thirty-minute completion time for the 1.7-mile loop. This trail isn’t hectic, so you can enjoy a relaxing walk with Fido while exploring all the park has to offer. The best time to check out this hike is early in the year, between January and March; it’ll be the easiest time to navigate and the best weather for this trail.

There is a parking fee to use this trail, and your dog must be leashed.

North Bay Trail

This trail is for a more advanced hiker and a dog ready for plenty of exercise. This 9.7-mile out-and-back will take about two and a half hours to finish. This will be an excellent trail for dogs with a lot of energy to burn. Expect this trail to take up the majority of your morning or afternoon. Luckily, this trail is paved and level, so it’s safe for people and dogs of all ages to enjoy. Traditionally, it is used for bikes but can be great for a long walk near the water.

This trail is free, and your dog can enjoy it, too, while on a leash.

Eureka Springs Conservation Park

Eureka Springs Conservation Park doesn’t just offer a great trail. This park offers beautiful scenery and educational content as well. You can expect 31 acres of conservation area with beautiful views, a greenhouse, trails, a boardwalk, and plenty of picnic areas. You can spend a whole day exploring this park with your canines.

Eureka Springs Conservation Park charges a $2 entry fee for vehicles with up to eight people. Your dog must also be on a leash while enjoying the botanical gardens and hiking trails.

Fort De Soto Park Nature Trail

This 1.4-mile loop takes about thirty minutes to complete and is a popular trail in St. Petersburg. Fort De Soto Park, which houses this short trail, also has multiple opportunities for other outdoor activities and sports, so once you finish your quick walk, you can enjoy some more activities with your dog, like paddleboarding.

Keep in mind that there is a fee to enter this park, and your dog should stay on their leash at all times.

Skyway Trail

Our last trail is a long one, so once you’ve mastered all of our previous picks, you can take on another long hike on the Skyway Trail. This 8.7-mile point-to-point trail takes about two and a half hours to finish. It’s fully paved and gently made to be accessible for all people and pups. Our favorite part about this trail is the rest stops sprinkled along the way. These spots offer a great place to stop and have a bite to eat while enjoying beautiful water views with your furry friends. Pack a lunch for yourself and a few treats for Fido, and enjoy this long hike!

Skyway Trail is free, and your dog must be leashed.

Now, get out there and enjoy a beautiful day with your lovely pooch. You won’t regret spending a few hours with them while you both get some exercise and quality time! Remember, if you or your pup encounter an emergency or injury while enjoying a fall hike, contact the proper first responders as necessary.