Question 1

Are dogs allowed at Coyote Hills Regional Park?

Accepted Answer

Yes, on-leash only. Dogs are welcome on the 3.5-mile paved Bayview Trail at Coyote Hills. Dogs are NOT allowed on the unpaved marsh trails, boardwalks, or any portion of the adjacent Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. A $5 parking fee plus $2 per dog applies — credit/debit card only, no cash accepted.

Question 2

Can dogs be off-leash at Coyote Hills?

Accepted Answer

No. Coyote Hills Regional Park requires dogs to be on-leash at all times throughout the park. There are no off-leash areas. The park's marsh habitat is sensitive and protects migratory shorebirds — dogs disturbing wildlife could result in citations.

Question 3

What is the Bayview Trail at Coyote Hills?

Accepted Answer

The Bayview Trail is a 3.5-mile paved loop trail around the Coyote Hills Regional Park with views of San Francisco Bay, the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge, and the surrounding hills. It is ADA accessible and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs as well as dogs. The flat, smooth surface is ideal for senior dogs, puppies, or dogs with joint issues.

Question 4

How much does it cost to bring a dog to Coyote Hills?

Accepted Answer

Parking is $5 per vehicle, and there is an additional $2 per dog fee. Payment is by credit or debit card only — no cash is accepted. Keep your receipt visible on your dashboard. EBRPD annual passes may cover the parking fee but verify if the dog fee is separately required.

Question 5

Can dogs go on the marsh boardwalk at Coyote Hills?

Accepted Answer

No. The marsh boardwalk and all unpaved marsh trails at Coyote Hills are closed to dogs. These areas protect sensitive wetland habitat and shorebird populations. Dogs are only permitted on the paved Bayview Trail. Posted signs clearly indicate the dog-restricted areas.

Question 6

Is Coyote Hills good for senior dogs?

Accepted Answer

Yes — it's ideal. The paved, flat Bayview Trail is one of the most accessible dog-friendly trails in the East Bay. No uneven terrain, no hills, no off-leash chaos. Senior dogs and dogs with mobility issues can enjoy the full 3.5-mile loop or shorter sections at their own pace. Water is available at the visitor center.

Question 7

What is the best time to visit Coyote Hills with a dog?

Accepted Answer

Weekday mornings avoid weekend crowds and make parking easier. Spring (March–April) brings spectacular wildflowers and shorebird activity visible from the trail. Summer afternoons can be hot and very sunny on the exposed bayfront — visit before 10 AM. Fall and winter offer quiet, uncrowded visits with good bird-watching from the trail.

Coyote Hills Regional Park

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