Like many dog owners, my idea of a walk is a lazy 10-minute stroll around a nearby field. And because my 2 doggos are toy-sized and pee pad-trained, they sometimes go days without even setting paw in the outside world.
But that shouldn’t be the case.
Even if we don’t have the luxury of wilderness camping and scenic road trips, Singapore still has its fair share of hiking trails. For those good dogs who deserve more than your regular neighbourhood park, here are 6 dog-friendly hiking trails in Singapore with hidden beaches and forest trails.
Image adapted from: @bailey_dailies & @wanderfulbenj via Instagram
Located in the south of Singapore is the Marang Trail, a quick 4-minute walk from Harbourfront MRT. Perhaps a lesser-known trail near the Henderson Waves, this 3.2km trail leads you and your pupper straight to the top of Mount Faber.
Image adapted from: @wurry30 & @allaboutmschatterbox via Instagram
The route up sports a few flights of stairs, but they aren’t steep so non-fitspo folks can easily conquer them – think of it as a workout on the stairmaster, but in nature. You can reach the top within an hour, and you’ll be #blessed with unblocked views of Singapore’s skyline – try to spot the cable cars going in and out of Sentosa.
Image credit: @vaporthegoldie via Instagram
Not many hiking trails boast an abandoned railway trail and endless stretch of greenery, but that’s exactly what The Rail Corridor is known for. Once a working railway line that connected the old Tanjong Pagar station to Kuala Lumpur, this is now a popular dog-friendly hiking trail for its leafy foliage and empty walking trails.
Image credit: @abbythemongrel via Instagram
While there are plenty of photo spots, you’ll also see tons of interesting artefacts along the way like old electrical boxes and abandoned railway sleepers. There’s also a 10KM running route that’s completely uninterrupted, perfect for those looking for a break from civilisation.
Since it gets a bit muggy, remember to bring mosquito repellant for both you and your dogs – remember to choose either non-toxic homemade bug sprays or a pet-safe one you picked up from your pet store!
Image credit: @jt_jaydentan via Instagram
Always a popular walking trail in Singapore, The Southern Ridges have plenty to explore. It’ll take you a good 4 to 5 hours to fully explore it all, since you’ll be strolling through the Henderson Waves, Forest Walk, and Canopy Walk.
Image credit: @vaporthegoldie via Instagram
With paved footpaths and man-made bridges, it’s easy enough to walk but if you’ve got a small doggo, make sure his paws don’t get stuck in the wooden floorboards of Henderson Waves. It’s also the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore at 36m high, so those scared of heights wouldn’t want to stand too close to the edge.
The Southern Ridges is known to be close to Mount Faber but you might eventually find yourself in Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, or even Labrador Nature Reserve.
Image credit: @stonmaster_general via Instagram
For those looking for a reprieve from clustered skyscrapers and jammed highways, Coney Island is an easy choice for its secret beaches and boardwalks. There isn’t a specific trail you should take, but make sure to save the entire afternoon so you can fully explore the island.
Chances are, you’ll be ambling leisurely through but bring plenty of water and treats since there aren’t any shops or even a bathroom available. If your dog’s not up for a full-day walk, you can also rent special bicycles that have a makeshift carriage for approximately $12/hour.
Image credit: Polar The Curious
You might want to stay to see the sunset but opening hours are strictly from 7AM-7PM. The gates reportedly close then and it might be a lil’ tricky lugging your pup and bicycle over.
Image credit: @annafucius via Instagram
A cemetery might not be on your list of weekend go-to spots, but Bukit Brown Cemetery is a gem – for its untouched greenery and winding lanes. You can certainly bring your dogs out here, but do be wary of stray dogs that often travel together in packs. If you see them, avoid making any contact as they might get aggressive.
Image credit: @lilianparkerkaule via Instagram
You might even spot the occasional horse, with riders coming from Singapore Polo Club or the National Equestrian Centre. No matter how morbid a trip here might seem, it also makes for an interesting experience to wander through.
Image credit: @sillyskippydoo via Instagram
For any bored dog who’s spent too long cooped up at home, an afternoon out at Sengkang Riverside Park is bound to be memorable. With rolling hills of green here, be sure to bring a frisbee or tennis ball to get your dog moving. There’s also a Fruit Tree Trail featuring 16 tropical fruit trees, with local fruits such as starfruit, chiku, and dragonfruit.
Image credit: @nutbeygumbeanbeeger via Instagram
Those who get peckish after their walk might want to head to the Mushroom Cafe – it’s not dog-friendly but you can take away meals like their Chicken Stew ($5.50) or Mee Rebus ($4.50).
Image credit: @b.arjanto via Instagram
Although mere minutes away from Bukit Panjang, stepping into Zhenghua Park feels like you’re entering a tranquil patch of nature – one of the few untouched areas left in Singapore. Admittedly, you’re surrounded by the BKE and KJE but all sounds of traffic are lost when you’re trudging your way through.
If you’re still and silent, you might even catch a glimpse of flameback woodpeckers and long-tailed parakeets.
Image credit: @nie_n_milobaby via Instagram
Most walkways and stairs are paved, but of course, you can also venture off the beaten tracks. Certain dog groups hold walks in the area too, like a weekly Sunday stroll held by Zhenghua Youth Network.
Coney Island – a popular place for dog meetups
Image credit: @uni_theblueeyedgirl
With their constant eagerness to please and puppy dog eyes that we can’t say no to, dogs are 100% truly our best friends. Don’t limit them to enclosed dog runs and nearby neighbourhood parks. Instead, bring them out to these dog hiking trails in Singapore – they’re the perfect reward for all good doggos.
More hiking places and tips to check out in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from @bailey_dailies, @vaporthegoldie via Instagram
Originally published on 18th February 2020 by Pailin Boonlong. Last updated by Joycelyn Yeow on 27th April 2023.
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