Disclaimer: Entry costs to the venues, parks and trails may change at any given time. Costs were correct at the time of writing (August 2024). Also, opening times may change at any given time, too. Keep your doggos on their leads unless the venue stipulates, they may come off their lead. Ensure your dogs are socialised and well-behaved to avoid fights. Clean up after your pooch when they do their business (no one likes stepping on a fresh landmine). Stick to the venues rules and regulations when it comes to dogs on their property. Be respectful. Please take care when attending any park in and around the city, there is always the risk of crime so we therefore advise that you go in a group.
Huddle Park Golf and Recreation
Located in Linksfield is the beautiful Huddle Park Golf & Recreation. This space hosts a selection of recreational outdoor activities including golf, footgolf, and what you're looking for – nature walks that you and your pooch can both enjoy. There are designated trails and areas where you and your furry companion can take a long stroll while enjoying nature.
For day visitors, there is an entrance fee of R50* per person, R30 per child aged between 4 and 13 years, and kids aged 3 years and under and dogs may enter FREE. Day passes may be purchased from the pro shop. Please note: this is a cashless venue.
Click here for more information about Huddle Park.
Walkhaven Dog Park
Want to get away from the rush of the city and unwind in the countryside? Then grab your doggos and head Walkhaven Dog Park in Muldersdrift, right next to the Cradle of Humankind. Here, you and your dogs can enjoy 22 hectares of rolling grassland and two large dams and lush wetland that's home to a variety of birds. The park also offers braai and picnic facilities which are strategically placed throughout the premises.
And after a lovely walk along the Walkhaven's trails and park, you and the pooches can stop by the Dog Box Grill and Pizza Mutt. Day visitor fees to the park are R45* per adult and R35* per child or pensioner.
The Big Red Barn
If you're in Pretoria at some point over the weekend with your furbabies, stop by The Big Red Barn in Centurion for a stroll. Take a relaxing walk through their eucalyptus scented woods offering over 40km of scenic biking, running and hiking trails.
This venue also offers a variety of activities perfect for all ages. Click here for a full list of activities and features at The Big Red Barn.
Entrance fees are as follows: R45* per adult and R40* per child or pensioner.
Please note: They are a cash free zone.
The Wilds
No need to leave the city to find green wide open spaces to enjoy a lovely walking trail with your doggo. A 16-hectare nature reserve on the outskirts of Houghton is the perfect setting for a trail walk and an escape from city life.
The Wilds Nature Reserve is set against lovely koppies with indigenous gardens. The reserve features running waterfalls and fountains, walkways and footpaths, plenty of beautiful scenery to photograph, as well as a sun dial and beautiful city skyline view at the peak of the reserve. Click here for more information about The Wilds. Entrance is free* and parking is secure.
Avianto Lifestyle Estate
Not only is this destination a stunning venue to host a countryside wedding, but it's also a lovely spot to enjoy a nature walk with your pooches. Located on the Muldersdrift Wedding Mile, Avianto Lifestyle Estate offers a serene setting to relax and escape Joburg's rush.
Their running and walking trails are ideal for a lovely day out in the countryside. Take your pick from their 2.5km or 5km scenic routes. Both great for exercise, regardless of your level of fitness. And best of all, these trails are pet-friendly, just remember a lead and a poop scoop.
All trails start from The Clubhouse at the Avianto Lifestyle Estate in Muldersdrift. Entrance fees are as follows: R40 per person.*
Ground
Another beautiful walking trail destination in Muldersdrift is Ground The Venue. There's plenty of space for you and your doggo to wander! Ground the Venue's farm offers marked trails to explore and get you outdoors. The trails vary in length, between 3 – 9km. Doggos are welcome if they are well socialised and on a lead at all times.
Please note: The trails are not guided, but there are markers and arrows to guide you through the routes. There is a map viewable on arrival and from there, you can decide on a route.
Click here for the hiking/walking trail costs and packages available. Bookings are essential for Wednesday to Friday. You can pre-book your hike or combo for Saturdays and Sundays, too.
James and Ethel Gray Park Foundation
This beloved park got its name from former Johannesburg mayor in 1946, James Gray and his wife Ethel. Based in Melrose, you can kick back, relax, stroll, even attend a yoga class at the park. You can also take in the stunning city views from a lookout point or enjoy one of the many walkways with your furry friend! There is no entry fee to make use of the park.
If you would like to find out more about how you can keep the park safe and clean, click here.
Photo Credits: James and Ethel Gray Park Foundation.
Delta Park
Delta Park is one of Johannesburg's biggest green lungs where thousands of Joburgers of enjoy the many walking trails, which link three beautiful tree-lined dams. Pets are welcome to join you on your afternoon stroll! According to their website, "If you prefer a longer walk, go right down to the park's southern border and walk along the Braamfontein Spruit Trail, Johannesburg's major stream bordering Delta Park."
There is no entry fee to the park. If you would like to find out more about this Randburg based park, click here.
Photo Credits: Alexander Pitsillis.
Know of any other dog-friendly walking trails in Gauteng? Share them with us in the comments section below!
