Dog-Friendly Walks in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter

Getting out for a walk with the dog and the kids at the same time is one of the genuinely good family activities — Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Valley have plenty of great options. There are flat coastal paths, harbour foreshore walks, bush trails and dog-friendly beaches across the region, with a solid mix of on-leash and off-leash options.

We’ve put together our favourite dog-friendly walks across both areas, with clear notes on leash rules and off-leash areas for each location. Rules do change from time to time, so it’s always worth checking with the relevant council if you’re unsure about a specific spot.

Jump to: Before You Go | Newcastle Dog Walks | Lake Macquarie Dog Walks | Hunter Valley Dog Walks | FAQs

Looking for family walks without the dog? See our guides to Newcastle walks, Lake Macquarie walks and our full regional walks guide.

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Before You Go — Dog Walking Basics

A few ground rules worth keeping in mind wherever you walk with your dog in the region:

• Always walk your dog on a leash unless you’re in a designated off-leash area.
• Carry poop bags and clean up after your dog — every time, everywhere.
• Keep dogs away from native wildlife, including shorebirds and waterbirds.
• Be courteous to other path users, especially on shared paths with cyclists.
• On hot days, check the path temperature before you set out — hot pavement burns paws. Early mornings are best in summer.
• Bring water for the dog as well as the kids.

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Dog-Friendly Walks in Newcastle

Bar Beach to Merewether

This beautiful coastal walk, part of Bathers Way is one of Newcastle’s most popular, and a great one for dogs. Starting at Bar Beach, the path heads south along the coast to Dixon Park and on to Merewether. It’s flat and easy with the one hill at Dixon Park. Keep an eye out for dolphins — there’s a resident pod that regularly swims between Merewether and Newcastle Beach — and look for whales offshore during whale season (June to November).

• Distance: 1.95km one-way
• Suitability: Flat paved coastal path. Pram-friendly apart from the hill at Dixon Park. Good for all ages.
• Dogs: On-leash along the path. Off-leash at Dixon Park Reserve (sunrise to 9am and 5pm to sunset).
• Parking: Bar Beach car park off Seaview Street.
• Tip: Time the walk so you arrive at Dixon Park during off-leash hours — the reserve is a good size for a run.

For more information, read our guide to Bathers Way.

Nobbys Breakwall Walk

A flat, paved 1.5km walk to the end of Nobbys Breakwall with panoramic harbour views. Keep an eye out for seals on the rocks — if you spot one, keep the dog calm and at a distance. After the walk, Horseshoe Beach at the base of Nobbys is dog-friendly. On weekends, dogs on leash are also welcome up on Nobbys Headland (open 8am–4pm on Saturdays and Sundays). Avoid the breakwall in rough weather or big seas.

• Distance: 1.5km one-way
• Suitability: Flat, paved. All ages. Avoid in rough weather.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout. Off-leash at Horseshoe Beach.
• Parking: Nobbys Beach car park off Shortland Esplanade.
• Tip: If seals are resting on the rocks, keep the dog well back — they can move fast when startled.

For more information, read our guide to Nobbys Headland.

Throsby Creek Walking Loop, Carrington & Maryville

A lovely inner-city walk along the banks of Throsby Creek through Carrington and Maryville. The large grassed area at Carrington Foreshore is leash-free — a great spot for the dog to have a run before or after the walk. Then head west along the creek through the mangrove boardwalk and on to Maryville. The path changes from concrete to gravel in parts of Carrington.

• Distance: 2.5km from Carrington Foreshore to Cowper Street Bridge, Maryville
• Suitability: Mostly pram-friendly. Path changes from concrete to gravel in parts of Carrington. Good for all ages.
• Dogs: Off-leash at Carrington Foreshore grassed area. On-leash along the walking path.
• Parking: Street parking near Carrington Foreshore.
• Tip: The walk is especially lovely at dusk. Let the dog have a run at the foreshore first, then settle into the walk.

For more information, read our guide to the Throsby Creek Walking Loop.

Stockton Foreshore Walk

One of the best dog walks in Newcastle. The Stockton shared path stretches from Stockton Bridge all the way around the peninsula to the Stockton Breakwall — about 7km one-way, flat and lightly used. Two off-leash areas along the route make it particularly good for dogs: the Ballast Ground (mid-route) and Pitt Street Reserve (at the breakwall end). Great views of Stockton Bridge, the harbour and Nobbys Headland throughout. You don’t need to do the full 7km — go as far as suits you.

• Distance: 7km one-way — do any section that suits
• Suitability: Flat, paved. Pram-friendly. Three playground stops. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash along path. Off-leash at Ballast Ground and Pitt Street Reserve.
• Parking: Stockton Ferry Terminal car park, or various points along the route.
• Tip: Catch the Stockton Ferry from Queens Wharf for a fun start — kids love the ferry ride and the dog usually loves it too.

For more information, read our guide to the Stockton Foreshore Walk.

Stockton Shipwreck Walk

Walk the northern breakwater in Stockton past the rusted remains of ships wrecked entering Newcastle Harbour — including the Adolphe, a French vessel wrecked in 1904. Flat and paved, great for dogs and kids. After the walk, continue south along the path to Pitt Street Reserve for an off-leash run. Seals sometimes rest on the rocks along the breakwall — keep dogs calm and at a distance if you spot one.

• Distance: 2km one-way
• Suitability: Flat, paved. Pram-friendly. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash along the breakwall. Off-leash at Pitt Street Reserve at the southern end.
• Parking: Car park at the end of King Street, Stockton.
• Tip: Combine with the Stockton Foreshore Walk for a longer outing with two off-leash stops.

For more information, read our guide to the Stockton Shipwreck Walk.

King Edward Park

For a more scenic walk with spectacular coastal views, King Edward Park in Newcastle East has paved paths through manicured gardens and past the historic rotunda. Leash-free area at the top of the park where dogs can have a proper run while you take in the views. During whale season, this is also one of the best free whale-watching vantage points in Newcastle.

• Distance: Various
• Suitability: Mix of flat and hilly sections. Good for all ages on the flatter paths.
• Dogs: On-leash in most of the park. Off-leash at the designated area at the top.
• Parking: King Edward Park car park off Shortland Esplanade.
• Tip: Go during whale season (June to November) and bring binoculars — the views from the top are outstanding for whale spotting.

For more information, read our guide to King Edward Park.

Fernleigh Track

The 15.5km Fernleigh Track connecting Newcastle and Lake Macquarie is a popular walking and cycling path on a former rail line. Multiple entry points mean you can do as much or as little as you like. Controlled dogs on a short leash are permitted away from picnic areas and children’s play areas. The track is wide and well-maintained. Watch for cyclists on busier sections, particularly on weekends.

• Distance: Up to 15.5km one-way — do any section
• Suitability: Flat, sealed, pram-friendly. Very gentle grades. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash (short leash). Keep away from picnic areas and play areas.
• Parking: Multiple access points — see the Fernleigh Track brochure for the full list.
• Tip: Go early on weekends to avoid the busiest cycling periods.

For more information, read our guide to the Fernleigh Track.

Blue Gum Hills Regional Park, Minmi/Fletcher

A beautiful large bushland park at Minmi/Fletcher, rehabilitated from an open-cut mining site. The Heritage Walking Track (2.5km, mostly flat dirt path) passes old coal mining infrastructure including an impressive 1870s brick ventilation shaft tower. Birds everywhere and a real sense of proper bush. Dogs on leash are welcome away from picnic areas and play areas.

• Distance: 2.5km Heritage Walking Track
• Suitability: Dirt paths — not suitable for prams. Best for school-age kids and adults comfortable on dirt tracks.
• Dogs: On-leash, away from picnic areas and children’s play areas.
• Parking: Blue Gum Hills Regional Park car park, Minmi Road, Minmi.
• Tip: The 1870s ventilation shaft tower is a great talking point — explain the coal mining history to the kids before you go.

For more information, read our guide to Blue Gum Hills Regional Park.

Jesmond Park

A large, peaceful bushland park in Newcastle’s inner western suburbs with signposted walking tracks. Dogs on leash are welcome on the grassed areas and walkways. The walk up through the park to John Hunter Hospital is about 1.4km and hilly — a good workout for both dogs and owners. The rose garden near the entrance is a pleasant easy start.

• Distance: Up to 1.4km to the hospital, or shorter loops
• Suitability: Hilly. Not ideal for prams. Best for school-age kids.
• Dogs: On-leash on grassed areas and walkways.
• Parking: Jesmond Park car park off Turton Road.
• Tip: The rose garden near the entrance is lovely in spring and a nice easy stop for younger kids.

For more information, read our guide to Jesmond Park.

Wallsend to Glendale Tramway Track

A 3.9km off-road walk and cycleway on a former steam tram route through a quiet gully between Wallsend and Glendale. The steady 3% gradient makes it a consistent gentle workout. Keep an eye out for horses, ducks and the occasional kangaroo. A quiet, lightly used track that works well for dogs.

• Distance: 3.9km one-way
• Suitability: Paved throughout. Consistently hilly — manageable for prams but best for kids with some endurance.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Cowper Road and Lake Road, Wallsend (northern end) or Frederick Street, Glendale (southern end).
• Tip: Walk one way and arrange a pickup at the other end rather than doing the return with tired kids and a dog.

For more information, read our guide to the Wallsend to Glendale Tramway Track.

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Dog-Friendly Walks in Lake Macquarie

Ken & Audrey Owens Walk, Redhead

One of the best dog-friendly walks in Lake Macquarie. The flat coastal walk at Redhead runs through scenic coastal vegetation and wetlands from Webb Park playground to Redhead Beach. Dogs must be on leash along the walk itself. At the end, the off-leash area at the southern end of Redhead Beach (south of Second Creek) gives your dog a chance for a proper beach run and swim. Note: new signage installed in November 2023 prohibits dogs between First and Second Creek.

• Distance: 2.5km return (Webb Park to duck pond)
• Suitability: Flat, pram-friendly. Mix of path and boardwalk. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash along the walk. Off-leash at southern Redhead Beach (south of Second Creek).
• Parking: Webb Park, Cain Street, Redhead. Toilets at Webb Park.
• Tip: Time the walk to finish at the off-leash beach section — it’s a great reward for the dog after the on-leash walk.

For more information, read our guide to the Ken & Audrey Owens Walk.

Belmont Lagoon Walk

A beautiful 4.3km walk around Belmont Lagoon, which sits between Lake Macquarie and the ocean. Dogs are welcome on leash. The lagoon has wonderful birdlife and cultural significance to the Awabakal people. Keep dogs away from native wildlife. Be aware of motorbikes that use some track sections on weekends.

• Distance: ~4.3km one-way
• Suitability: Mixed path surfaces. Best for school-age kids. Not suitable for prams throughout.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout. Keep away from native wildlife.
• Parking: Belmont Lagoon Reserve car park, Belmont.
• Tip: Continue into Belmont Wetlands State Park for a longer outing.

For more information, read our guide to Belmont Lagoon Walk.

Belmont Wetlands State Park

Multiple walking trails through coastal bushland and wetlands at Belmont. The Wildflower Walk and the Gilbey Loop Walk are the most family-friendly options — both flat and short. Dogs are allowed throughout the park on leash. During peak times there can be 4WDs in the park — keep dogs close and under control.

• Distance: Various
• Suitability: Flat sandy tracks for main walks. Dune section more challenging. Shorter walks suit all ages.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout the park.
• Parking: Main entrance off Kalaroo Road, Redhead.
• Tip: The Wildflower Walk is at its best between August and October.

For more information, read our guide to Belmont Wetlands State Park Walks.

Blacksmiths Breakwall

A short, flat walk out along the Blacksmiths Breakwall with views of Blacksmiths Beach and Swansea Heads. Only about 600m return, but a lovely easy outing. Blacksmiths Beach is also dog-friendly — the leash-free area extends from the beach car park off Awabakal Avenue northerly to the Belmont Golf Club boundary.

• Distance: ~600m return
• Suitability: Flat, paved. All ages including prams.
• Dogs: On-leash on breakwall. Off-leash on Blacksmiths Beach (designated area — from car park off Awabakal Avenue north to Belmont Golf Club boundary).
• Parking: Blacksmiths Beach car park, Awabakal Avenue.
• Tip: Combine the breakwall walk with a beach run for the dog — one of the better dog-friendly beach options in Lake Macquarie.

For more information, read our guide to Blacksmiths Beach.

Warners Bay Sculpture Walk

The 2km foreshore path from Eleebana to Warners Bay passes a series of sculptures by national and international artists and includes the stunning Red Bluff Boardwalk elevated over the lake. Flat, paved and beautiful. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout. After the walk, there’s a dog exercise area at nearby Speers Point Park for an off-leash run.

• Distance: 2km one-way (Eleebana to Warners Bay)
• Suitability: Flat, paved, wheelchair accessible. Pram-friendly. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout. Off-leash at Speers Point Park dog exercise area nearby.
• Parking: Thomas H Halton / Croudace Bay Park, Bareki Road, Eleebana. Toilets at car park.
• Tip: Finish at Warners Bay for a coffee, then head to Speers Point Park for the dog’s off-leash run.

For more information, read our guide to the Warners Bay Sculpture Walk.

Fernleigh Track — Lake Macquarie sections

The Lake Macquarie sections of the Fernleigh Track — particularly around Belmont and Redhead — are flat, wide and pram-friendly. The same rules apply as the Newcastle sections: dogs on a controlled short leash, away from picnic areas and children’s play areas. Multiple entry points on the Lake Mac side at Belmont, Redhead and Kahibah.

• Distance: Any section you choose
• Suitability: Flat, sealed, pram-friendly. Gentle grades throughout. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash (short leash). Away from picnic areas and play areas.
• Parking: Multiple access points — see Fernleigh Track brochure.
• Tip: Go early on weekends to avoid the busiest cycling periods.

For more information, read our guide to the Fernleigh Track.

Green Point Foreshore Walk, Belmont/Valentine

The Green Point Foreshore Reserve has a sealed main path and additional bush trails through a beautiful former coal mine site. The main sealed path is flat and pram-friendly. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout. A great spot for a longer outing with the whole family — lake views, picnic areas and enough variety to keep older kids interested.

• Distance: Various — from 1km to several kilometres
• Suitability: Main sealed path is pram and wheelchair friendly. Dirt side trails are not suitable for prams. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Green Point Reserve car park, Dilkera Avenue, Valentine.
• Tip: The Sea Eagle Lookout at Cardiff Point is worth the short detour for the views over the lake.

For more information, read our guide to Green Point Walk.

Murrays Beach Walk

A flat, well-maintained walking and bike track along the quiet lake shoreline at Murrays Beach through natural bush. Peaceful, lightly used and a good chance of spotting native wildlife. Keep your dog on a short lead and away from any wildlife you encounter.

• Distance: ~3.9km one-way
• Suitability: Flat, sealed. Pram-friendly. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash (short lead). Native wildlife present — keep dogs under close control.
• Parking: Murrays Beach car park.
• Tip: A good weekday walk when you want the track to yourselves.

For more information, read our guide to Murrays Beach.

Kilaben Bay Nature Walk

A lovely bushland walk on the western side of the lake, winding through bush along a wide fire trail and over boardwalks to the lake’s edge. Dogs on leash are welcome throughout. The section from Kilaben Park end is the flatter and more accessible starting point.

• Distance: ~1.5km each way
• Suitability: Gravel fire trail. Not suitable for prams. Good for school-age kids and adults.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Street parking near Toronto Fire Station on Ridge Road, or Kilaben Park on Kilaben Road.
• Tip: The lake’s edge at the end of the walk is a lovely spot for the dog to have a paddle.

For more information, read our guide to the Kilaben Bay Nature Walk.

Glendale to Wallsend Tramway Track

The same tramway track that connects Lake Macquarie to Newcastle is a good dog walking option starting from the Glendale end. The steady gradient, quiet surroundings and interesting wildlife (horses, ducks, kangaroos) make it a pleasant outing with dogs.

• Distance: 3.9km one-way
• Suitability: Paved throughout. Consistently hilly — best for kids with some endurance.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Frederick Street, Glendale (southern end).
• Tip: Walk one way and arrange a pickup rather than doing the return with tired legs.

For more information, read our guide to the Wallsend to Glendale Tramway Track.

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Dog-Friendly Walks in Maitland, Cessnock & the Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley has some good dog-friendly walking options — though it pays to know the rules before you head out. Dogs are not permitted in Watagans National Park or Yengo National Park, which rules out several of the area’s most popular family walks. The good news is that all NSW State Forests allow dogs on leash, and there are some great options in the Maitland and Cessnock townships too.

Maitland Park Loop

The 1.8km paved loop around Maitland Park is a pleasant, easy walk for dogs and kids together. Wide paths, good shade along Howe Street and a relaxed park setting. Dogs on leash throughout.

• Distance: 1.8km circuit
• Suitability: Flat, paved. Pram-friendly. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Maitland Park car park, High Street, Maitland.
• Tip: Combine with a coffee from one of the Maitland CBD cafes nearby — most allow dogs at outdoor tables.

For more information, read our guide to Maitland Park.

Riverside Walk, Maitland CBD

A flat 1km riverside walk along the Hunter River in Maitland. Wide, paved and scenic — a good easy outing for dogs and kids of all ages. Walk it in both directions for an easy 2km return.

• Distance: 1km one-way
• Suitability: Flat, paved. Pram-friendly. All ages.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Riverside Car Park, Maitland CBD.
• Tip: Head into the CBD for a post-walk coffee — there are several dog-friendly outdoor cafes nearby.

Morpeth Common (Ray Lawler Reserve)

Just 3km from Maitland, Morpeth Common is a lovely nature reserve stretching along a deep avenue of trees opening out to a field where cows and horses graze. There’s a designated off-leash dog area within the reserve, making it a good spot for a run combined with a walk through the grounds. The reserve was upgraded in 2022 with new playground equipment, a sealed car park and a toilet block.

• Distance: Various — nature paths through the reserve
• Suitability: Nature paths. Good on dry days. Not suitable for prams in wet conditions.
• Dogs: Off-leash in the designated dog area. On-leash elsewhere in the reserve.
• Parking: Sealed car park at Morpeth Common (Ray Lawler Reserve), Morpeth.
• Tip: Combine with a wander through the Morpeth heritage town centre and a stop at one of the cafes — most welcome dogs at outdoor tables.

For more information, read our guide to Morpeth Common.

Poppethead Dam Walk, Kitchener

A popular dog-walking spot with both locals and visitors to the Hunter Valley, the Poppethead Dam Walk at Kitchener Heritage Poppethead Park is a flat 1.6km circuit around the dam. Home to ducks and swans, with the historic poppethead structure from the old Aberdare Central Colliery giving the walk some character. Dogs on leash throughout. Some sections can be muddy after rain — gumboots are useful in wet weather.

• Distance: 1.6km circuit
• Suitability: Flat circuit. Good for all ages on dry days. Not pram-friendly if muddy.
• Dogs: On-leash throughout.
• Parking: Kitchener Heritage Poppethead Park car park, Kitchener.
• Tip: About 5km south of Cessnock — a good stop if you’re in the Hunter Valley for the day.

For more information, read our guide to Poppethead Park.

Pines Walking Track, Olney State Forest

Olney State Forest sits on the border of Lake Macquarie and Cessnock LGAs, and it’s one of the best options in the region for a dog-friendly bush walk. Dogs are permitted on leash in all NSW State Forests. The Pines Walking Track is the most family-friendly option — a short 1.7km loop from The Pines Picnic Area following Dora Creek through pockets of moist eucalypt forest and rainforest, past a lovely rock pool. The rock pool is a great spot for a dog to cool off in warm weather.

Note: The longer Abbotts Falls Walking Track nearby is not fully dog-friendly — a section of the track crosses into Watagans National Park where dogs are not permitted.

• Distance: 1.7km loop
• Suitability: Unpaved bush track. Not suitable for prams. Good for kids and dogs comfortable on natural surfaces.
• Dogs: On-leash. Dogs permitted in all NSW State Forests.
• Parking: The Pines Picnic Area, Olney State Forest. Access via unsealed road — check conditions after rain before visiting.
• Tip: Combine with the nearby Rock Lily Walking Track (also dog-friendly) for a longer outing.

Hunter Lookout & Great North Walk Loop, Olney State Forest

For families with older kids and active dogs, the Hunter Lookout and Great North Walk Loop in Olney State Forest is a rewarding 5.6km circuit. Starting from the Hunter Lookout picnic area, the loop follows the Great North Walk around the edge of the ridge via Maclean’s Lookout and Rocky Creek gully, with excellent views across the valley and much of the Hunter to the north. It’s a harder walk with some steep sections — best for experienced walkers and dogs who can handle a climb.

• Distance: 5.6km loop
• Suitability: Hilly and challenging in sections. Grade 4. Not suitable for prams. Best for older kids and adults with bushwalking experience.
• Dogs: On-leash. Dogs permitted in all NSW State Forests.
• Parking: Hunter Lookout picnic area, Olney State Forest. Access via unsealed road.
• Tip: Pack plenty of water for both you and the dog — there’s limited water on the trail. The views from the lookout are worth every step.

Remember: Dogs are not permitted in Watagans National Park or Yengo National Park. This means the Boarding House Dam Walk, Gap Creek Falls, the Finchley Cultural Walk and the Yango Track are all off-limits with dogs. Stick to Olney State Forest and the town-based walks above when you have the dog along.

Looking for more family walks in the region? See our guides to Newcastle walks, Lake Macquarie walks, Maitland walks, pram-friendly walks and our full regional walks guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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