When exploring the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region there is no reason your furry friend should stay at home. The area offers plenty of places to explore and enjoy with your partner in crime. Here are the top ten places (from one dog owner to another) to experience adventure through the excited eyes of your pup. Make sure that wherever you choose to go together that you follow leash laws and clean up after your adventure buddy.

1.  Sweet Creek Falls

This year-round hike is fun and doable for the most energetic of puppies to the senior dog needing a slow and steady stroll. This trail winds past several waterfalls with inlets where you can let your pup splash around.

Woman sits building a sand castle on the beach with the ocean behind her. She is smiling under a large, purple brimmed hat.
: Melanie Ryan Griffin

Beaches

Discover sandy beaches all along the Oregon Coast, only one hour west of Eugene - Springfield.

2. Florence Beaches

It goes without saying that most dogs are going to go wild for the beach, long walks, fun smells, and lots of other pups to befriend! Florence offers miles of coastline to run, walk, jump and on warm days splash around.

Southpine Bakery & Cafe serves coffee roasted in Eugene and food made fresh in-house, sourcing most of their ingredients locally. The intention is to support local small business and reduce…

3. Southpine Bakery & Cafe

This coffee shop tucked away off Coburg Road in Eugene offers ample outdoor seating for you and your furry friend. It’s a perfect place to have a leisurely cup of coffee while your pup basks in the patio sun.

4. Buford Park and Mt. Pisgah Hiking Trails

If you’re in Eugene and looking for a nearby hike that is sure to tucker out even the most energetic of pups, look no further than Buford Park and Mt. Pisgah. With both walking and hiking options between Howard Buford Park and Mount Pisgah Arboretum you can find something that works for you and your dog. This area makes for a scenic adventure year-round, from wildflower season to a crisp fall morning, and boasts access to the Coast Fork of the Willamette River when your pup needs a summertime plunge.

5. McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill

While adventuring up the McKenzie with your pup you will want to make a stop at McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill. Dogs are welcome inside and of course on the patio. With products made daily in-house and locally sourced it’ll be a treat for you and your pup!

Salt & Straw at the Oakway Center

6. Salt & Straw

If a day of adventuring has left you and your dog in need of a sweet treat, your one stop shop for you both can be Salt & Straw! With unique ice cream flavors, and a special apple, carrots, and sweet potato flavor for your dog, you will both leave happy!

The B2 Bar and Grill serves up locally sourced Northwest fare for lunch, dinner and happy hour. Their menu features small plate items, burgers, sandwiches, salads and entree items such as…

7. B2 Bar and Grill

B2 Bar and Grill is a lovely Eugene patio where your pup will have a full water bowl and lots of love from the wait staff and those passing by. B2 offers wine, cocktails and food for those wishing to relax with their dog outdoors.

8. Dexter Reservoir

If you are looking for a place to swim, paddle board, or kayak with your four-legged friend you can find that at Dexter Reservoir. Make sure to watch for algae bloom updates as those can be dangerous for humans and pups.

The Westfir Lodge and Mountain Market is located in the heart of the Willamette National Forest at the base of the famous mountain biking and hiking trail, the Alpine Trail. They have nine…

9. Westfir Lodge and Mountain Market

A beautiful dog friendly patio located near Oakridge looking out over the historic Office Covered Bridge; Westfir Lodge and Mountain Market is a great pre or post hike stop while you’re exploring the Alpine Trail with your pup.

10. Ruth Bascom Riverbank Trail

This 12-mile (19 km) riverfront trail is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Willamette River while giving your pup the long walk they crave. This trail winds past several parks including Eugene’s largest riverfront park, Alton Baker. Alton Baker Park even has an off-leash dog park that will make your dog’s day.