Dog walking is a great pastime that provides many benefits to both you and your canine companion. Walking provides tons of health benefits, from weight loss to stress relief. Half of the fun is exploring new places to walk, and the novel scenery provides enrichment opportunities for your dog. Thankfully, Palm Coast and Flagler County are rife with great places to enjoy an outdoor stroll. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but these four places include the beach, the swamp, the woods, and the city, so you’re bound to find a place that will be perfect for you and your dog to take a walk!
Lehigh Greenway Rail Trail
The Lehigh Greenway Rail Trail spans 6.9 miles between Colbert Lane and US 1. The entirety of the trail is paved, so even those with limited mobility can enjoy time in nature here. The trail was built on a former railway corridor and passes through part of the 3,000-acre Graham Swamp conservation area.
The Lehigh Rail Trail is an ideal spot for a dog walk. There are no motorized vehicles allowed on the path, so you won’t have to dodge traffic on your walk. The trail runs through the heart of Palm Coast, but it is mostly secluded. The path winds through swamp and woods, allowing pedestrians and bicyclists to feel immersed in nature. There’s plenty for your dog to sniff and explore all along the way. The trail is also very accessible, with access points located in three spots on Belle Terre Parkway, Old Kings Road, and Colbert Lane, just north of where these streets meet SR. 100.
One point of caution when using this trail: We have seen wildlife, including small alligators, when visiting. Always use caution when walking your dogs and give any wildlife that you encounter a wide berth. Part of the fun is getting to view these animals in their natural habitat, but make sure you keep an active eye out to ensure you or your dog don’t inadvertently startle a snake or alligator!
Central Park in Town Center
If city living is more your speed, but you still want to get outside to walk with your four-legged friend, then Central Park in Town Center is a great option! The park features a half-mile paved loop around a scenic pond that has become a popular gathering spot for locals. The city of Palm Coast frequently hosts events here, including holiday parades, movies in the park, and food truck rallies. Central Park is a great spot for social dogs (and people) to meet up with friends or to make new ones.
The park is an easy drive from most places in Palm Coast. It is located very close to Highway 100 and Belle Terre Parkway. The location has ample parking, as well as restroom facilities. The closed-loop path makes it easy to enjoy a walk without worrying about traffic. There are even new solar charging stations and shaded benches to make your trip more pleasant. Remember to bring bags to clean up after your dogs!
Jungle Hut Park
The beach at Jungle Hut Park is a favorite among Palm Coast locals. This park offers public beach access that is located close to the Hammock Dunes bridge in the Hammock. It’s an easy drive from Palm Coast proper and it’s rarely crowded. This park consists of two-acres of practically untouched beach and dunes. There is a paved parking here, so no need for 4-wheel drive. The bathrooms and outdoor showers will help you clean up after a sandy afternoon. It’s easy to get beachside using the wooden walkover. Keep your eyes open and you might even spot some dune-dwelling wildlife on the way.
Pets are welcome at Jungle Hug Park, but they must remain on their leashes. Complimentary dog waste bags are located near the boardwalk entrance – a gentle reminder to keep the park clean by picking up after your pets. We have yet to meet a dog who didn’t enjoy a romp on the beach, so this is a great spot to take your dog for a walk or a swim.
One point of caution when visiting Jungle Hut Park: There is a strong undercurrent here, along with rocks in the surf. We have swum at this park many times, but it is not the ideal location if swimming is your main objective. You should be mindful of this and make sure that you and your dog don’t go out too far into the water at this particular beach.
James F. Holland Memorial Park
The second park on our list was built with dogs in mind. The James F. Holland Memorial Park has both a ¾-mile walking trail and an enclosed dog park. They packed plenty of other features into the 27 acres, including basketball and tennis courts and picnic pavilions.
The dog park portion of the park is divided into space for large and small dogs and even includes a water feature for canine visitors who like to swim. There are water stations for pups and shaded seating areas for people. Whether you’re looking to take your dog on a nice walk through the park or you prefer to relax while your dog does the exercising, James F. Holland Memorial Park has you covered.
It’s clear that there is no shortage of great outdoor spaces for dogs in Flagler County and Palm Coast, so get out and start exploring! Xanadu is happy to take your dog on an adventure any time. We offer pet transport services, which can include trips to the park, beach, or vet! If you’re looking for a more relaxed outing, you may want to check out the best dog-friendly restaurants in Flagler County as well.