Anyone who knows me knows I'm a dog lover.
My Golden Retriever, Frisco, has been my walking companion, hiking buddy, and loyal friend for years. One of the things I love most about living in Pittsburgh's North Hills is how many great places there are to enjoy with your dog.
Whether you're looking for a scenic trail, a place to let your pup burn off energy, or a restaurant patio where dogs are welcome, the North Hills has plenty to offer.
If you're a dog owner—or especially a fellow Golden Retriever owner—here are some of my favorite dog-friendly spots around the North Hills.
North Park: Every Dog's Paradise
Feature: North Park
If there is one place that belongs on every North Hills dog owner's list, it's North Park.
With more than 3,000 acres of green space, North Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Dogs and their owners enjoy:
- Miles of walking trails
- Scenic lake views
- Shaded paths
- Open grassy areas
- Wildlife viewing
- The off-leash dog park
The five-mile loop around the lake is especially popular for daily walks.
For Golden Retrievers who love exploring, swimming, and meeting new friends, North Park is hard to beat.
Hartwood Acres
Feature: Hartwood Acres Park
Hartwood Acres offers a quieter experience than North Park while still providing plenty of room to roam.
Visitors love:
- Wide walking paths
- Beautiful scenery
- Historic grounds
- Open fields
- Woodland trails
It's a wonderful place for a leisurely walk with your dog, especially during the cooler morning and evening hours.
North Boundary Park
Feature: North Boundary Park
One of Cranberry Township's hidden gems, North Boundary Park is a favorite among dog owners.
Highlights include:
- Nature trails
- Dog park
- Fishing pond
- Wooded scenery
- Open recreation areas
The trail system offers a peaceful escape from busy roads and commercial areas.
Sewickley Community Park
Feature: Sewickley Community Park
This local favorite offers beautiful walking paths and plenty of room to stretch your legs.
Dog owners appreciate:
- Wide open spaces
- Walking trails
- Scenic views
- Family-friendly atmosphere
It's also conveniently located near the shops and restaurants of Sewickley Village.
The Montour Trail
Feature: Montour Trail
The Montour Trail is one of Western Pennsylvania's premier walking and biking trails.
For dog owners, it offers:
- Miles of paved pathways
- Gentle terrain
- Beautiful scenery
- Plenty of opportunities for longer walks
It's especially popular with active dogs that need more exercise than a typical neighborhood walk.
Dog-Friendly Patios Worth Visiting
After a walk, sometimes both you and your pup deserve a treat.
Fortunately, many local establishments welcome dogs on their outdoor patios.
Thorn Hill Tap House – Wexford
A popular gathering place that often welcomes dogs in outdoor seating areas.
Perfect for:
- Casual lunches
- Summer evenings
- Meeting friends after a walk
Voodoo Brewing Co. – Wexford
Dog lovers often gather on the outdoor patio while enjoying craft beverages and food.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite among local pet owners.
Restaurants in Sewickley Village
Many Sewickley restaurants offer outdoor dining where well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Few things are better than grabbing a coffee or meal while your dog relaxes beside you beneath the shade trees of Sewickley's charming downtown.
Why Dog Owners Love the North Hills
One reason so many people choose to live in Pittsburgh's North Hills is the lifestyle.
In addition to great neighborhoods, schools, and amenities, the area offers:
✔ Beautiful parks
✔ Miles of walking trails
✔ Pet-friendly businesses
✔ Outdoor recreation
✔ Strong community connections
For dog owners, these features become part of daily life.
Final Thoughts
Dogs don't care about school districts, mortgage rates, or square footage.
They care about walks, fresh air, treats, and spending time with their favorite humans.
Fortunately, Pittsburgh's North Hills offers plenty of opportunities for all four.
Whether you're exploring North Park, strolling through Sewickley, hiking the Montour Trail, or relaxing on a dog-friendly patio, you'll find plenty of places to enjoy life with your furry companion.
And if you happen to have a Golden Retriever like Frisco, don't be surprised if they think every one of these destinations was created specifically for them.
