The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Clark County
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Clark County Washington are characterized by a mix of forested paths, lakeside loops, and riverine environments. The region features gentle elevations and varied terrain, offering accessible outdoor experiences. Hikers can explore areas around lakes and through local parks, providing natural settings for walks. The landscape primarily consists of woodlands and open parklands, with trails often following water features.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Clark County
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Round Lake Loop Trail, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This easy route offers scenic views around the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lacamas Park Trails Loop, an easy 3.8 miles (6.1 km) path. This trail winds through forested areas and along the lake shore.
- Local hikers also love the Heritage Trail at Lacamas Lake – Lacamas Lake loop from Camas High School, a 4.2 miles (6.7 km) trail leading through lakeside parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 44 minutes.
- Hiking in Clark County is defined by forested trails, lake loops, and accessible park routes, with options for various ability levels.
- The routes in Clark County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 1100 hikers have used komoot to explore Clark County's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
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11
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4.61km
01:15
80m
40m
The Round Lake Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding around the serene waters of Round Lake. You'll traverse a variety of surfaces, from paved sections to gravel paths and boardwalks, all while enjoying lush evergreen forests and views of the historic Round Lakes Upper Dam and the unique Camas Potholes. This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike, with only 276 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
This trail is a fantastic option for families, dog walkers, and runners, offering amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds nearby. It's enjoyable throughout the year, though spring and fall bring particularly beautiful colors to the landscape. Remember to keep your dog on a leash, as it's a popular spot for wildlife viewing.
Part of the broader Lake to Lake Trail system, this loop showcases diverse scenery, from tranquil lake views to sections alongside rapid rivers. The historic Round Lake Upper Dam, originally built in 1883, adds a touch of local history to your walk. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and consider bringing a fishing rod, as the area is popular for angling.
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7.04km
01:55
110m
110m
The Round Lake Loop Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding around the tranquil waters of Round Lake and through verdant forests. You'll experience a mix of serene lake views and the sounds of rapid rivers, making for a varied and engaging walk. This easy 4.4-mile (7.0 km) hike involves a gentle 352 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing.
When planning your visit, head to Lacamas Regional Park in Camas, Washington. The trail is generally accessible, and the area around the Lacamas and Round Lakes Upper Dam is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, it's always wise to arrive early, especially on pleasant days, to ensure a smooth start to your hike.
One of the unique features of this route is the historic Lacamas and Round Lakes Upper Dam, originally built in 1883 to serve a paper mill. Today, it stands as a testament to the area's industrial past and provides a scenic backdrop for recreation. The trail's blend of natural beauty and historical context makes it a notable option among the Round Lake Loop Trail popular routes in the region.
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20
hikers
6.10km
01:38
80m
80m
The Lacamas Park Trails Loop offers a refreshing escape into a "miniature wilderness" right in Camas, Washington. This easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike, with a gentle 249 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through mossy forests, past the scenic Round Lake, and along Lacamas Creek to multiple waterfalls like Lower Falls and Pothole Falls. In spring, the camas lily meadows explode with vibrant purple and blue, creating a truly memorable experience that takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at the trailhead. While the trail is popular, especially for family-friendly hikes, the park's extensive network allows for varied routes. For the best experience, consider visiting in spring to witness the spectacular camas lily bloom, or after rainfall to see the waterfalls at their most impressive. The park is generally accessible year-round, offering a convenient outdoor option.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Lacamas Park Trails Loop is notable for its historical significance, crossing an old dam that formed Round Lake, originally built to support a local paper mill. The park's diverse native plants and opportunities for wildlife viewing add to its appeal, making it a beloved local gem that feels far removed from urban development despite its proximity.
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29
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3.80km
01:00
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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26
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The Lacamas Lake – Heritage Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding along the western shore of Lacamas Lake. You'll stroll on a wide, well-groomed path, mostly gravel with some paved sections, under a cooling canopy of old-growth forest. Expect superb views of the lake, charming waterfalls, and unique rock formations, with the chance to spot beautiful blue Camas lilies in mid-April. This easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) loop has a minimal 62 feet (19 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect outing that takes under two hours.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking and restrooms available at both ends of the trail. The route is open year-round from 7 a.m. to dusk, but be aware that it can get busy, especially on weekends; aim for a weekday or later in the day for a quieter experience. It's a shared-use trail, welcoming hikers, runners, and bikers, and is both dog-friendly (on leash) and ADA accessible, making it suitable for nearly everyone.
This trail is a fantastic example of how to enjoy the natural beauty of the region without a strenuous climb, connecting to a larger network of trails within Lacamas Lake Regional Park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like birds, deer, and raccoons, and don't miss the historical 1901 Queen Anne Victorian-style Leadbetter House visible across the lake. With picnic stops and even a children's play center along the way, it's a versatile spot for a relaxing day outdoors.
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Tips from the Community
Round Lake Upper Dam in Camas holds back Round Lake and Lacamas Lake in Lacamas Park. It was built in 1883 for a paper mill; the wooden dam was replaced by a concrete and steel structure in 1935, which raised the lake level by about 12 feet. Today, this area is popular for fishing rainbow and brown trout, bluegill, and bass, while hikers and picnickers have access to benches, grills, and restrooms.
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This wide, well-maintained, crushed gravel path takes you 3.5 miles (one way) along the lakeside. The shoreline is a great place to see wildlife, and you might spot kayakers out on Lacamas Lake.
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Round Lakes Upper Dam is an old dam that was built to provide power for a paper mill. There is currently a project in the works to create a fish passage.
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Round Lake is a small, crystal-clear lake surrounded by evergreen forests. Connected to Lacamas Lake at its northwest tip, Round Lake is part of Lacamas Park, which offers fishing, picnicking, grilling, hiking, and jogging. Fishermen can find rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, and smallmouth bass here.
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The Camas Potholes draw in swimmers during hot summer days. Some jump from moderately high cliffs into the waters of Lacamas Creek. The unique water flow from the Lacamas Lake outlet dam has carved a few potholes in the rocks, ranging from 3 to 10 feet wide and 3 to 13 feet deep. Unfortunately, the Camas Potholes have been the site of several injuries and fatalities due to falls and drowning.
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At Lacamas Lake, you can breathe in pine-scented air as you follow peaceful Heritage Trails. Surrounded by mature trees, this scenic lake is the perfect spot for kayaking and admiring nature. The park's well-maintained landscape features beautiful ferns, water lilies, and wildflowers.
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Camas Heritage Park is on the south-east end of the popular Heritage Park trailhead, a 6.9-mile heavily trafficked out-and-back trail along Lacamas Lake. The trail is accessible year-round and welcomes dogs on leashes. The other trailhead is located on NE Goodwin Road in Camas. If you plan to swim, check for algae bloom updates here: https://www.cityofcamas.us/parksrec/page/heritage-park
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Clark County?
Clark County offers a good selection of dog-friendly hiking trails, with over 15 routes available for you and your canine companion to explore. These trails range from easy strolls to moderate hikes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
Are there easy dog-friendly trails suitable for beginners or older dogs?
Yes, Clark County has many easy dog-friendly trails perfect for beginners, families, or older dogs. Out of the available routes, 15 are rated as easy. A great option is the Round Lake Loop Trail, which offers a gentle path around the lake.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in Clark County?
Absolutely! Many of the dog-friendly trails in Clark County are loops, providing a varied experience without retracing your steps. The Lacamas Park Trails Loop is a popular choice, offering scenic views and a pleasant circular route for you and your dog.
What kind of scenery can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Clark County?
Clark County, Washington, is known for its attractive outdoor experiences, featuring lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls. You can expect trails that wind through green landscapes, often alongside bodies of water like lakes and streams, providing a refreshing environment for both you and your dog.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails in Clark County?
The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Clark County, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful natural surroundings, and the accessibility of these trails for dogs, making them perfect for a relaxing outing.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints for me and my dog?
While specific viewpoints vary by trail, many routes in Clark County offer picturesque settings, especially those around lakes and rivers. Trails like the Heritage Trail at Lacamas Lake provide lovely views of the water and surrounding nature, perfect for enjoying with your dog.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest near the dog-friendly trails?
Near many of the dog-friendly trails, you'll find several interesting spots. You can explore the Round Lakes Upper Dam, enjoy the serene Vancouver Lake, or walk along the Heritage Trail at Lacamas Lake. For a historical touch, Fort Vancouver is also nearby, though always check specific dog rules for historical sites.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for a longer dog walk?
For a longer dog walk, consider routes that offer extended distances. The Round Lake Loop Trail, in one of its longer variations, provides over 7 kilometers of path, allowing for a more extensive outing with your dog.
Are there any trails that are suitable for families with dogs?
Many of the easy-rated trails in Clark County are ideal for families with dogs. These paths are generally well-maintained and have minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for children and pets alike. The various loop trails around lakes are often family favorites.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Clark County?
Clark County's climate generally allows for pleasant hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best, and always ensure your dog has plenty of water. Winters are typically mild, but be prepared for rain.
Are there any trails that offer a mix of natural beauty and historical interest?
Yes, some areas combine natural beauty with historical elements. While not directly on a hiking trail, the proximity of Fort Vancouver to some trail networks means you can combine a walk with a visit to a significant historical site. Always check specific dog policies for historical grounds.
Most popular routes in Clark County
Most popular attractions in Clark County
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