The Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Los Alamos, New Mexico for an Outdoor Adventure

Spending time out in nature exploring with loved ones is always a wonderful thing to do. Not only is it a great way to get fresh air and exercise, but it's also a way to bond. Now, what if you want to take your four-legged fur babies with you? After all, dogs are part of the family, too, right? I always love taking my dogs on hikes, but not every trail allows them—which is why finding the right destination is so important.

That’s why Los Alamos is such an excellent place for outdoor lovers and their pups—it’s full of scenic mesas, forested paths, and breathtaking overlooks that make each hike feel like an adventure. Whether you’re after an easy stroll or something more challenging, there’s a trail here for every temperament, human and canine alike. If you want to take your furry companions with you on your next hiking adventure, here are five of the best dog-friendly hikes in Los Alamos, New Mexico.

1. Overlook Trails

At 3.8 miles and 928 feet of elevation gain, Overlook Trails is a moderate trek that will take nearly two hours to complete. While you can certainly bring your pup on this trail, they must be on a leash. This trail is at Overlook Park in Los Alamos and will lead you and your pup to an overlook with a bird's-eye view of the Rio Grande. Take it all in when you get there—the view is extraordinary.

2. Kwage Mesa North Rim

The easy out-and-back Kwage Mesa North Rim Trail at North Mesa Park is 2.8 miles, dog-friendly, and will take only an hour to complete, depending on your pace. While the trail is popular with horseback riders, you can find solitude at certain times throughout the day. Enjoy views of the mesa and canyon as you hike, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. While I always recommend a leash, certain parts of the trail are where your pup can go off-leash.

3. Natural Arch via Old Mitchell Trail

For fascinating rock formations that you'll love seeing (and your pup may want to climb on), take the Natural Arch via Old Mitchell Trail. This rocky trek is 1.9 miles in length with an elevation gain of 541 feet. Rated as moderate, you'll only need a little over an hour to complete it. Mitchell Trailhead is where you'll start, and it can be found in a parking lot off Arizona Avenue. Make sure you're wearing a sturdy pair of hiking boots for this trail—it's pretty rocky. And make sure your dog is on a leash.

4. Los Alamos Canyon Rim Trail

Los Alamos Canyon Rim Trail is a paved pathway ideal for everyone, including those with mobility issues. If you have young children in strollers, this path is stroller-friendly and dog-friendly as well, so feel free to bring the whole family. Rated as easy, the Los Alamos Canyon Rim Trail offers beautiful views, and wildflowers bloom here in the spring and summer months. However, there are no restrooms, so keep that in mind if you plan on hiking this trail.

5. Water Canyon Loop

How does a hike through the forest sound to you? Located within the Santa Fe National Forest, the 5.4-mile Water Canyon Loop is a moderate trail that you and your fur baby may have to yourselves. It's also an excellent trail to see wildlife like deer and for birdwatching. Part of the trail is shaded, while other portions are exposed, so make sure you bring sun protection with you.

After exploring some of the best dog-friendly hikes in Los Alamos, New Mexico, it’s important to come prepared before you head out. Be sure to bring a leash, water, a water bowl, and a few treats for the trek. While your pup may not need as much gear as we do, packing a few essentials will help keep them safe and comfortable on the trails.

It’s also a good idea to download AllTrails+ ahead of time so you have access to offline maps and trail information if service is spotty. Happy tails… I mean, trails!

Feeling inspired to get outside? Try planning your own outdoor adventure in New Mexico using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.