55This field is huge! My dogs had an amazing time running around and exploring 😍 There is shade under the trees, and the part that wasn't fenced in wasn't an issue for us. If your dogs don't have solid recall, stick to the fenced side. The whole place is so big, you shouldn't have a problem getting a good amount of walking/running in, without coming too close to the unfenced side. I walked around for about 2 miles, and I'm guessing my dogs probably did twice that 😆 The host was nice and allowed extra time, because I took a wrong turn coming there and was late to my booked time. We will definitely be back! Adelina C.
Adelina C.
August 2023
This field is huge! My dogs had an amazing time running around and exploring 😍 There is shade under the trees, and the part that wasn't fenced in wasn't an issue for us. If your dogs don't have solid recall, stick to the fenced side. The whole place is so big, you shouldn't have a problem getting a good amount of walking/running in, without coming too close to the unfenced side. I walked around for about 2 miles, and I'm guessing my dogs probably did twice that 😆 The host was nice and allowed extra time, because I took a wrong turn coming there and was late to my booked time. We will definitely be back!
Stefanie's Private Dog Park In San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Great place for my dog to sniff and run. I think some signs to show where we can’t and can go might be nice. My dog was winded in 30 min which usually doesn’t happen for him. Josey M.
Josey M.
August 2023
Great place for my dog to sniff and run. I think some signs to show where we can’t and can go might be nice. My dog was winded in 30 min which usually doesn’t happen for him.
Stefanie's Private Dog Park In San Marcos | Sniffspot
55This is essentially a large partially fenced field with some walking paths mowed through and a tree grove bordering the east (Sarver lane) side. Park across the street from the mailbox/driveway on Sarver and walk down the driveway to the picnic table, then carry on to the west fence line. Towards the back (north) are several dwelling structures and to the front (south) is the nursery which is off limits. It was a little unclear which other areas are off limits & my adventure hound likes to sniff the perimeter everywhere, so if you have an investigative dog maybe invest in a nylon long line for $12 and practice recall. I did spot a cat at the nursery so also something to be aware of if your dog has a high prey drive. My dog doesn't like to be active in the sun & when we arrived it was full sun, so we spent much time in the shady grove where there was no shortage of things to sniff. The field will be perfect for running in the winter.
At the moment it is BYOWater so something to be aware of. It is not manicured grass (& I'm not sure where you'd even find that in SD county); we encountered no hazards which is uncommon for a rural farm type property. Be prepared for a nature walk with lots to explore. We had a great time, thank you to the hosts for offering this spacious and unique property which is relatively close to home for us. We look forward to future visits. Michele S.
Michele S.
September 2023
This is essentially a large partially fenced field with some walking paths mowed through and a tree grove bordering the east (Sarver lane) side. Park across the street from the mailbox/driveway on Sarver and walk down the driveway to the picnic table, then carry on to the west fence line. Towards the back (north) are several dwelling structures and to the front (south) is the nursery which is off limits. It was a little unclear which other areas are off limits & my adventure hound likes to sniff the perimeter everywhere, so if you have an investigative dog maybe invest in a nylon long line for $12 and practice recall. I did spot a cat at the nursery so also something to be aware of if your dog has a high prey drive. My dog doesn't like to be active in the sun & when we arrived it was full sun, so we spent much time in the shady grove where there was no shortage of things to sniff. The field will be perfect for running in the winter.
At the moment it is BYOWater so something to be aware of. It is not manicured grass (& I'm not sure where you'd even find that in SD county); we encountered no hazards which is uncommon for a rural farm type property. Be prepared for a nature walk with lots to explore. We had a great time, thank you to the hosts for offering this spacious and unique property which is relatively close to home for us. We look forward to future visits.
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Alma and David were such welcoming hosts, and completely understood how difficult it is to find nature spots for a reactive dog to enjoy. We’re so grateful they’ve opened their space to other dog families.
We did the "add-on" stream hike, which involved a very steep trail down to the stream, but culminated in a lovely shaded spot complete with a tree swing over the water, and picnic areas on both sides of the stream with chairs to watch our dog play in the water. Even though the temperature was in the high 80’s, the spot was shaded and cool, and the water was crystal clear and cold, about 1-2 ft deep in November. Our rescue German Shepherd loved every minute of it from being able to go off leash and enjoy the natural setting to splashing around in the water and clambering over rocks. And it was such a relief for us not to worry about other people/dogs/animals showing up!
We ordered the add-on picnic lunch by the stream, which our hosts brought down via ATV. Also well worth it! An amazing charcuterie board, large croissant sandwiches, and fruit from the farm. The hike down and fresh air gave us an appetite and it was all delicious. (The steep hike back up with full stomachs was a challenge!)
We will definitely be back. I’m sure Ellie can’t wait!
Philip B.
Philip B.
November 2021
Alma and David were such welcoming hosts, and completely understood how difficult it is to find nature spots for a reactive dog to enjoy. We’re so grateful they’ve opened their space to other dog families.
We did the "add-on" stream hike, which involved a very steep trail down to the stream, but culminated in a lovely shaded spot complete with a tree swing over the water, and picnic areas on both sides of the stream with chairs to watch our dog play in the water. Even though the temperature was in the high 80’s, the spot was shaded and cool, and the water was crystal clear and cold, about 1-2 ft deep in November. Our rescue German Shepherd loved every minute of it from being able to go off leash and enjoy the natural setting to splashing around in the water and clambering over rocks. And it was such a relief for us not to worry about other people/dogs/animals showing up!
We ordered the add-on picnic lunch by the stream, which our hosts brought down via ATV. Also well worth it! An amazing charcuterie board, large croissant sandwiches, and fruit from the farm. The hike down and fresh air gave us an appetite and it was all delicious. (The steep hike back up with full stomachs was a challenge!)
We will definitely be back. I’m sure Ellie can’t wait!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Amazing! We brought our two dogs, who otherwise live in a small yard…and they were thrilled!! The stream is a dog magnet. Our boxer and lab mix immediately gravitated toward it, and were in total paradise. The little “beach” next to the stream is so cute, equipped with chairs and an umbrella - we enjoyed sandwiches and a beer while the dogs ran around sniffing and submerging.
We’ll definitely come back and recommend this location to friends/dog owners!Elizabeth P.
Elizabeth P.
November 2021
Amazing! We brought our two dogs, who otherwise live in a small yard…and they were thrilled!! The stream is a dog magnet. Our boxer and lab mix immediately gravitated toward it, and were in total paradise. The little “beach” next to the stream is so cute, equipped with chairs and an umbrella - we enjoyed sandwiches and a beer while the dogs ran around sniffing and submerging.
We’ll definitely come back and recommend this location to friends/dog owners!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55I would give 10 stars if I could. Hosts were gracious and informative. The property was clean, well maintained and beautiful. My dogs had so much fun that they were fast asleep before we got to the main road home. So much fun!jen a.
jen a.
December 2021
I would give 10 stars if I could. Hosts were gracious and informative. The property was clean, well maintained and beautiful. My dogs had so much fun that they were fast asleep before we got to the main road home. So much fun!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55My pup and I loved the place and will be back soon . David and Alma are very friendly . Thank you for having us today ! My pup has been sleeping since we got home :) stephanie f.
stephanie f.
December 2021
My pup and I loved the place and will be back soon . David and Alma are very friendly . Thank you for having us today ! My pup has been sleeping since we got home :)
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Very beautiful area. Our pup is quite reactive and the creek was far enough from any distractions or traffic. Alma is very kind and helpful. Definitely will go back.Alireza M.
Alireza M.
December 2021
Very beautiful area. Our pup is quite reactive and the creek was far enough from any distractions or traffic. Alma is very kind and helpful. Definitely will go back.
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55This is a beautiful and natural, rugged property with clear trails; my hound had the best birthday exploring everything. Wear your hiking shoes. Host friendly and communicative. The basic booking was a big loop around/through the 20 acre avocado grove. We got a map with a hiking loop and driving directions beforehand; follow the instructions to turn off the main road at the metal gate with two signs (from the south)
There are several trails, and host responded immediately to texts when I wasn't sure if we were still on the loop. Once you get up the trail turn right at the water tank for the loop. Host said we could continue on past the water tank to the next uphill trail off to the right, which ended in a grassy area with pretty views. If you continue on further the creek trail offshoots down/right from the main trail (we did not book the creek add-on but host kindly gifted that while we still had a bit of time left on the booking, and it is a gorgeous place just a short downhill hike into the canyon) ... Host said we could have continued on past the river trail to another dead-end trail, but we ran out of time. Had we simply meandered along the avocado grove loop I imagine we would have completed that in about 30-45 minutes with playing & exploring.
Yes it is pricier than some of the other sniffspots, but if your dog is crazy and loves to explore like mine, it is completely worth it for the exercise and enrichment; nothing compares to off-leash adventures. I'm not sure I would be able to keep my hound (who has zero regard for my bank account) from the river now that she knows where the trail is, but we will be back for regular bookings and exercise.
Thanks to the hosts for sharing this piece of heaven.
Tell the host if your dog is reactive, they will stay out of sight. Michele S.
Michele S.
December 2021
This is a beautiful and natural, rugged property with clear trails; my hound had the best birthday exploring everything. Wear your hiking shoes. Host friendly and communicative. The basic booking was a big loop around/through the 20 acre avocado grove. We got a map with a hiking loop and driving directions beforehand; follow the instructions to turn off the main road at the metal gate with two signs (from the south)
There are several trails, and host responded immediately to texts when I wasn't sure if we were still on the loop. Once you get up the trail turn right at the water tank for the loop. Host said we could continue on past the water tank to the next uphill trail off to the right, which ended in a grassy area with pretty views. If you continue on further the creek trail offshoots down/right from the main trail (we did not book the creek add-on but host kindly gifted that while we still had a bit of time left on the booking, and it is a gorgeous place just a short downhill hike into the canyon) ... Host said we could have continued on past the river trail to another dead-end trail, but we ran out of time. Had we simply meandered along the avocado grove loop I imagine we would have completed that in about 30-45 minutes with playing & exploring.
Yes it is pricier than some of the other sniffspots, but if your dog is crazy and loves to explore like mine, it is completely worth it for the exercise and enrichment; nothing compares to off-leash adventures. I'm not sure I would be able to keep my hound (who has zero regard for my bank account) from the river now that she knows where the trail is, but we will be back for regular bookings and exercise.
Thanks to the hosts for sharing this piece of heaven.
Tell the host if your dog is reactive, they will stay out of sight.
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55This is our new favorite Sniffspot! Our dog had so much fun running free without fear of running into other dogs. The host was so kind and helped us navigate all of the trails. We will be back and I highly recommend! Kaitlin M.
Kaitlin M.
December 2021
This is our new favorite Sniffspot! Our dog had so much fun running free without fear of running into other dogs. The host was so kind and helped us navigate all of the trails. We will be back and I highly recommend!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Our dog had so much fun here today. We upgraded to the stream hike and it was definitely worth it. Our dog loved the water and we enjoyed the beautiful views. Alma was very responsive and helpful and provided clear maps and directions. We will be back!Julie W.
Julie W.
December 2021
Our dog had so much fun here today. We upgraded to the stream hike and it was definitely worth it. Our dog loved the water and we enjoyed the beautiful views. Alma was very responsive and helpful and provided clear maps and directions. We will be back!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55By far, the best sniffspot I have been to. Alma was such a sweet and hospitable host. The creek is a must!!!! The dogs absolutely loved it and they had a great time. The land was beautiful and there was a nice little spot by the creek to relax while the dogs frolicked. Paula H.
Paula H.
December 2021
By far, the best sniffspot I have been to. Alma was such a sweet and hospitable host. The creek is a must!!!! The dogs absolutely loved it and they had a great time. The land was beautiful and there was a nice little spot by the creek to relax while the dogs frolicked.
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Loved the spot - my lab Bruce had a blast exploring! It rained a lot recently so we weren’t able to walk along the creek as much as you probably can sometimes but the upside was there was enough water to swim in. Bruce definitely approved! Karla G.
Karla G.
December 2021
Loved the spot - my lab Bruce had a blast exploring! It rained a lot recently so we weren’t able to walk along the creek as much as you probably can sometimes but the upside was there was enough water to swim in. Bruce definitely approved!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55This was absolutely worth the two hour drive from LA. You’re essentially renting out your own private hiking trail. Great for recall practice with my reactive dog. I will definitely be back. I didn’t do the creek trail but I think if I do it in the future, I’ll book two hours to make sure I have time! Thank you for this great spot!Michelle C.
Michelle C.
December 2021
This was absolutely worth the two hour drive from LA. You’re essentially renting out your own private hiking trail. Great for recall practice with my reactive dog. I will definitely be back. I didn’t do the creek trail but I think if I do it in the future, I’ll book two hours to make sure I have time! Thank you for this great spot!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Wonderful hike around the avocado grove! The host came out to greet us when we arrived, but otherwise we saw no other people or dogs. The area is fenced in except for a gate that we drove through – not sure if they closed that behind us or not, but we kept our dog on a long line. Would definitely book again!Karli R.
Karli R.
December 2021
Wonderful hike around the avocado grove! The host came out to greet us when we arrived, but otherwise we saw no other people or dogs. The area is fenced in except for a gate that we drove through – not sure if they closed that behind us or not, but we kept our dog on a long line. Would definitely book again!
CHOICE AVOCADOS - DOGGY DAY ADVENTURES | Sniffspot
55Very lovely space for my dog to explore. He was exhausted afterwards in the best way. A really great place for him to decompress. The road is very rocky/rough driving wise but worth it once you arrive. Kiara M.
Kiara M.
January 2022
Very lovely space for my dog to explore. He was exhausted afterwards in the best way. A really great place for him to decompress. The road is very rocky/rough driving wise but worth it once you arrive.
How do Bonsall's private dog hiking trails work?
Private rentals by the hour
Our hosts are locals that are renting their yards and private land to dog owners
Trust and safety first
Spots are designed for safety and both hosts and guests are reviewed after each visit
Designed for private play
Only the people and dogs in your booking are allowed in the spot during your visit
Reactive dogs welcome
Many of the spots we list are designed with sensitive dogs in mind
Become a Sniffpass holder!
Get discounts on all bookings at all spots by buying monthly credits! Learn more!
FAQ about our Bonsall dog hiking trails
Are dog hiking trails safe?
While public dog parks have a number of safety issues, such as aggressive dogs, inattentive owners, disease transmission and general cleanliness, Sniffspot dog parks are much safer than a city or county park. With a Sniffspot off-leash area all bookings are private for just you and dogs you bring with you and we require all dogs to be vaccinated (or have equivalent titers). All Sniffspot locations are vetted and reviewed by guests so you can find the perfect place for you and your dog. 93% of reviews on Sniffspot visits are 5 stars. Our hiking trails tend to be outside the city, which lends to more privacy, but it is also important to follow typical hiking safety precautions, such as potentially having trail maps.
How do I know if a dog hiking trail works for my dog?
Sniffspot provides the tools to find the ideal spot. Start by applying basic filters, such as fencing 6 feet tall and distractions, to find a dog park with trails that works for your dog. You can also filter by size if you are looking for a certain acre park, an expansive off-leash dog park. If your dog doesn't have good recall, you can visit one of our fully fenced dog hiking trails. If your dog is reactive to other dogs, you can visit one of our dog hiking trails where there are no dogs audible or visible nearby. Since you are looking for trails, make sure to check photos to see if it the spot has flat trails or gnarly trails. You can also browse by specific amenities, if you are looking for a view or a beach, for instance, or other activities or fun features. You can check whether the spot has off or on street parking, the regular park hours, whether it has paved trails or a modern restroom.
What are the requirements to bring my dog to a Sniffspot dog hiking trail?
In order to hike the trails, we require that all dogs have basic vaccinations or equivalent titers. We do not permit dogs with a bite history. We require that guests sign our waiver and agree to follow our safety rules.
Will there be other dogs at the Sniffspot hiking trail at the same time as me?
Sniffspot only allows one booking at a time and any host dogs are required to be kept away from the spot during visits. We also enforce 30 min time buffers between bookings.
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