The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Davis
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Family friendly hiking trails around Davis offer a blend of urban green spaces and access to natural landscapes. The region is characterized by flat terrain, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for easy walks. Hikers can explore riparian areas, wetlands, and open parklands, often along interconnected greenbelts and creek systems. The landscape primarily features native trees, grasslands, and cultivated areas, providing accessible outdoor experiences within and near the city.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Davis
- The most popular…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
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hikers
4.36km
01:06
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16.0km
04:02
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
5.27km
01:19
10m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
9.15km
02:19
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
3.60km
00:54
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A small farm lake along the trail that can be a nice place to stop and watch the bird life.
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Lake Spafford is a segment of the original channel of Putah Creek, with a trail system that goes around the lake. It’s an artificial lake created as the result of dredging back in the 1870s when the city was still being developed.
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This wooden cabin was built by two Boy Scout troops in 1927, with help from the Davis Rotary Club, which donated quite a few supplies for the construction. For two years in the 1950s the cabin served as a nursery school, and in 2000 the Boy Scouts vacated the cabin after ongoing disputes traced back to discriminatory practices.
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Lake Spafford is a segment of the original channel of Putah Creek, with a trail system that goes around the lake. It’s an artificial lake created as the result of dredging back in the 1870s when the city was still being developed.
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Lake Spafford is a segment of the original channel of Putah Creek, with a trail system that goes around the lake. It’s an artificial lake created as the result of dredging back in the 1870s when the city was still being developed.
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The Davis Bike Loop is an approximately 12-mile long route through The Greenbelt that passes through most of the major pieces of bicycle infrastructure in town. The route was chosen to be safe and pleasant for walking, jogging, and bicycling, and exists for riders of all levels.
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The historic pioneer cabin at the entrance to town was built by members of the Davis Rotary Club for use by local Boy Scout troops in 1927. This cabin is an example of a continued fondness for the rustic forms and images of pioneer America. It was the Rotary Club's first local community project. Stones for the cabin were gathered by the Boy Scouts and transported from a nearby creek by trucks. Telephone pole cedar logs were donated by Pacific Gas & Electric Co, the other supplies by the Davis Rotary Club. Originally built on UC Davis-leased land, the university had been renting the parcel to the Boy Scouts since the construction of the cabin in 1927, but the city took over the lease in order to build a public parking lot next to the cabin. Since that time, the Boy Scouts paid the city $1/year for a land tenancy sublease, but co-owned the cabin with the Davis Rotary Club. In 1999 the city's Human Relations Commission cited the Boy Scouts' stance on not admitting gay leaders and atheists in making its recommendation to the City Council to cancel the lease. The scouts vacated the cabin in 2002. The nearby John Natsoulas Art Gallery, now called the John Natsoulas Center for the Arts, is the largest of the Davis art galleries. They operate the Log Cabin Gallery, by appointment, in the former Boy Scout Cabin. https://localwiki.org/davis/Boy_Scout_Cabin
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Telephone pole cedar logs donated by Pacific Gas & Electric Co. were used by members of the Davis Rotary Club to build this cabin for use by local Boy Scout troops in 1927. This cabin is an example of a continued fondness for the rustic forms and images of pioneer America. It was the Rotary Club's first local community project. Stones for the cabin were gathered by the Boy Scouts and transported from a nearby creek by trucks. The other supplies were donated by the Davis Rotary Club. Originally built on UC Davis-leased land, the university had been renting the parcel to the Boy Scouts since the construction of the cabin in 1927, but the city took over the lease in order to build a public parking lot next to the cabin. Since that time, the Boy Scouts paid the city $1/year for a land tenancy sublease, but co-owned the cabin with the Davis Rotary Club. In 1999 the city's Human Relations Commission cited the Boy Scouts' stance on not admitting gay leaders and atheists in making its recommendation to the City Council to cancel the lease. The scouts vacated the cabin in 2002. The nearby John Natsoulas Art Gallery, now called the John Natsoulas Center for the Arts, is the largest of the Davis art galleries. They operate the Log Cabin Gallery, by appointment, in the former Boy Scout Cabin. https://localwiki.org/davis/Boy_Scout_Cabin
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Davis?
There are over 8 family-friendly hiking trails around Davis, ranging from easy strolls to moderate walks, perfect for enjoying the outdoors with children.
What makes the hiking trails around Davis suitable for families?
The trails in and around Davis are generally characterized by their gentle terrain and accessible nature. Many routes, like the Covell Greenbelt Trail, are relatively flat, often paved or well-maintained, and pass through urban green spaces or riparian areas, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. The UC Davis Arboretum also provides beautiful, easy walks.
Are there easy, beginner-friendly options for families in Davis?
Yes, the majority of family-friendly routes in this guide are rated as easy. For instance, the Davis Train Station – Lake Spafford loop offers a pleasant and straightforward walk, ideal for beginners or families with young children. Many trails within the city's greenbelt network are also very accessible.
Can I find shaded trails for family hikes, especially during warmer months?
Yes, several areas around Davis offer good shade, particularly along riparian corridors and within the UC Davis Arboretum. Trails along Putah Creek, for example, are often lined with native trees like Valley Oaks and Fremont Cottonwood, providing welcome relief from the sun. The Covell Greenbelt Trail also features sections with tree cover.
Are there any circular or loop trails suitable for families in Davis?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly routes are designed as loops, making them convenient for outings. The North Davis Farm Lake loop and the Davis Train Station – Lake Spafford loop are excellent examples of circular trails that allow you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.
What natural features or landmarks can families explore along these trails?
Families can discover various points of interest. Many trails pass by Lake Spafford, offering scenic views. The Putah Creek Trail provides opportunities to explore a significant riparian area. Within Davis, the Davis Central Park and its Market Pavilion are also popular spots near some routes.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails around Davis?
Many trails in Davis and the surrounding areas are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, especially in wildlife areas. The city's greenbelts and the UC Davis Arboretum generally welcome leashed dogs.
Are the family-friendly trails around Davis accessible by public transport?
Davis is known for its excellent bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and many trails are easily accessible within the city. Routes like the Davis Train Station – Lake Spafford loop start near public transport hubs. The extensive Davis Greenbelt network also connects many neighborhoods, making it easy to reach trails without a car.
Is parking readily available at the trailheads for family hikes?
For trails within the city, such as those in the greenbelt or near the UC Davis Arboretum, street parking or designated parking lots are generally available. For trails slightly outside the city, like those along Putah Creek, specific parking areas are usually provided. It's always a good idea to check the starting point of your chosen route for parking information.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Davis?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility and flatness of the trails, making them ideal for families. The scenic beauty of the UC Davis Arboretum and the peaceful atmosphere along the greenbelts are frequently highlighted.
Can we observe wildlife or birds on these family-friendly hikes?
Yes, Davis and its surrounding natural areas are rich in wildlife. Trails along Putah Creek and within the UC Davis Arboretum are excellent for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot various species. The Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, a short drive away, is also renowned for its incredible biodiversity and bird migration viewing.
Are there any stroller-friendly walks among the family-friendly trails?
Many of the easy, paved, or well-maintained paths within the Davis Greenbelt system and the UC Davis Arboretum are suitable for strollers. Routes like the Covell Greenbelt Trail offer smooth surfaces, making them perfect for families with young children in strollers.
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