Peak bagging is great.
Peak bagging with your dog? Even better. 🐾
Whether you’ve got a ball-chasing spaniel or a laid-back lab, bringing your pup along for the climb turns a good day out into a great one. But not every mountain is suitable for four-legged hikers — exposed scrambles, livestock-heavy fields, and rocky trails can make some routes tricky (or downright dangerous).
The good news? There are loads of stunning, dog-friendly peaks across the UK that are Dog-Friendly Peaks: The Best Mountain Walks to Bag With Your Pupperfect for bagging together. This guide gives you safe, rewarding mountain walks where you and your dog can explore without drama — just scenic views, wagging tails, and top-tier summit selfies.
🐕 What Makes a Peak Dog-Friendly?
Not all mountains are made equal when it comes to dogs. Here’s what we look for in a pup-perfect hike:
✅ Steady terrain (minimal scrambling or jagged rocks)
✅ Safe ridgelines and good trail footing
✅ Water access or shady rest spots
✅ Dog-friendly stiles and gates
✅ Low livestock risk (or clear on-lead rules)
💡 Trail Tip: Follow the Countryside Code — keep dogs on a lead around farm animals, and always clean up after them (yes, even on the hills).
🏞️ 7 Dog-Friendly Peaks for the Perfect Mountain Adventure
Here’s a list of stunning UK summits that are safe, scenic, and ideal for doggos of all sizes. 🐶
1.
Cat Bells, Lake District
- Height: 451m (1,480ft)
- Walk Length: 5km / 2–3 hours
- Terrain: Grassy ridge walk with mild scrambles (avoidable via lower paths)
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: Loads of space, short and scenic, and manageable for dogs with decent fitness.
- Top Tip: Combine with a Derwentwater lakeside stroll for a relaxed loop — and finish with a pup-friendly pit stop in Keswick.
2.
Sugar Loaf, Brecon Beacons
- Height: 596m (1,955ft)
- Walk Length: 6km / 3 hours
- Terrain: Wide grassy trails, gentle incline, some open heathland
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: Great under-paw conditions, no tricky terrain, and plenty of sniff-worthy heather moors.
- Top Tip: Keep dogs on a lead during lambing season — it’s common to spot sheep here.
3.
Mam Tor, Peak District
- Height: 517m (1,696ft)
- Walk Length: 3km / 1.5–2 hours
- Terrain: Paved flagstone paths, grassy ridgeline
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: Short, solid trail underfoot with epic views and minimal climbing effort.
- Top Tip: Sunrise walk? Mam Tor is one of the best early-morning spots in the Peaks — just pack a blanket and biscuits for both of you.
4.
Ben Vrackie, Pitlochry (Scotland)
- Height: 841m (2,759ft)
- Walk Length: 9km / 4 hours
- Terrain: Solid paths with stone steps and boardwalk sections
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: A proper mountain with zero sketchy sections — challenging but safe for dogs with good stamina.
- Top Tip: There’s a loch halfway up — perfect for doggy water breaks and quick swims on hot days.
5.
Hallin Fell, Ullswater
- Height: 388m (1,273ft)
- Walk Length: 2km / 1 hour
- Terrain: Grassy hill walk, short and steep
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: One of the easiest Wainwrights — perfect for small breeds, older dogs, or casual Sunday sniff sessions.
- Top Tip: Combine with a trip on the Ullswater Steamer (dogs ride free!) for the best doggy day out.
6.
The Cheviot (Short Route), Northumberland
- Height: 815m (2,674ft)
- Walk Length: 11km / 3.5–4 hours
- Terrain: Moorland with flagstone sections; wide and open
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: Quiet, remote, and no tricky footing — great for dogs that prefer space and solitude.
- Top Tip: Watch for adders in warmer months — they’re shy, but active on sunny moorland paths.
7.
Orrest Head, Windermere
- Height: 239m (784ft)
- Walk Length: 3km / 1 hour
- Terrain: Smooth woodland path and steps
- Why It’s Dog-Friendly: Wainwright’s first Lakeland view, and a brilliant “intro” walk for pups and humans alike.
- Top Tip: No need to drive — this one starts right near Windermere train station and ends with a perfect picnic viewpoint.
🦴 What to Pack for a Mountain Walk With Your Dog
Quick kit list for a smooth day on the trail:
- Collapsible bowl + 1–2L water (more on hot days)
- Long training lead or retractable leash
- Dog treats or food for long hikes
- Dog ID tag with your phone number
- Poo bags (and a backup!)
- Microfibre towel for muddy paws
- Dog jacket or blanket (especially in cooler seasons)
- Optional: dog boots for rough terrain, cooling vest in summer
🧠 Safety Tips for Hiking With Your Dog
- Avoid intense heat — dogs overheat quickly on exposed trails
- Keep pups on a lead near livestock, cliff edges, or busy paths
- Don’t push them too far — build up stamina gradually
- Watch out for signs of:
- Heat exhaustion (panting, drooling, slowing down)
- Paw pad wear or cuts
- Limping or stiffness on descent
- Bring a tick remover if walking through bracken or moorland
🏁 Final Thoughts
Taking your dog hiking is one of the best ways to bond, exercise, and explore together. From short hilltop wanders to big mountain views, there are loads of safe, dog-friendly peaks across the UK just waiting for waggy-tailed walkers.
Just remember to plan ahead, pack smart, and be mindful of terrain, livestock, and weather.
Photo credit: Ross Attwood
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