The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Pentland Hills

There are over 15 dog-friendly hiking trails in the Pentland Hills featured on komoot, offering a variety of distances and difficulties suitable for you and your canine companion. These routes are carefully selected to ensure a great experience for both hikers and their dogs.

The Pentland Hills offer a diverse landscape, from rolling hills and picturesque glens to woodland, farmland, heathland, and peat bogs. You'll encounter a mix of smooth, grassy slopes and more rugged, rocky sections, especially on higher peaks. Many trails also pass by tranquil reservoirs like Glencorse and Threipmuir.

While many trails in the Pentland Hills are moderate to difficult, there are options that are more accessible. For a moderate challenge that's still manageable, consider the View of Turnhouse Hill – Turnhouse Hill loop from Easter Howgate, which is just over 5 km. Always check the route details to ensure it suits your dog's fitness level and your family's preferences.

For experienced hikers and their fit dogs, the Pentland Hills offer several challenging routes with significant elevation gain and stunning views. The Scald Law Summit – Carnethy Hill loop from Lennox Tower is a demanding 20 km trail, while the Carnethy Hill – Scald Law Summit loop from Fairmilehead is an even longer 27 km adventure. These routes ascend some of the highest peaks, providing extensive panoramic vistas.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking with dogs, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be lovely, but be mindful of warmer weather and ensure your dog has access to water. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear for both you and your dog due to potentially icy or muddy conditions on higher ground.

Yes, several car parks are available at popular access points to the Pentland Hills, such as Flotterstone, Threipmuir, and Bonaly. These often serve as starting points for many trails. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions or fees, and ensure your vehicle is not obstructing access for others.

The Pentland Hills are rich in natural beauty. You can explore prominent peaks like Scald Law Summit and Carnethy Hill, offering superb views. Tranquil reservoirs such as Glencorse Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir provide peaceful settings. You might also encounter historical sites like the Castle Law Hill Fort and Souterrain, adding an archaeological interest to your walk.

Yes, the Pentland Hills are quite accessible from Edinburgh via public transport. Several bus routes serve the edges of the Regional Park, allowing you to reach popular starting points like Flotterstone or Hillend. It's advisable to check bus schedules and dog policies with the specific transport provider before you travel.

The Pentland Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.68 stars. Reviewers often praise the expansive views from the summits, the variety of terrain, and the feeling of escaping into nature so close to Edinburgh. The network of well-maintained paths and the opportunity for dogs to enjoy off-leash sections (where permitted and safe) are frequently highlighted.

Yes, there are several establishments in the villages surrounding the Pentland Hills that welcome well-behaved dogs, often with outdoor seating or designated indoor areas. It's always a good idea to call ahead to confirm their current dog policy before your visit, especially if you plan to dine indoors.

The Pentland Hills are home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and small mammals. To protect wildlife and livestock, it's crucial to keep your dog under close control, especially in areas with grazing animals or ground-nesting birds. Always follow local signage regarding leash requirements and be mindful of your dog's impact on the natural environment.

While the Pentland Hills are generally dog-friendly, it's important to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. This means keeping your dog under proper control, especially near livestock, wildlife, and other visitors. Always pick up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly. Some areas, particularly around reservoirs or nature reserves, may have specific restrictions or require dogs to be on a leash.