Dougherty Hills Dog Park Run: A Scenic & Challenging Route

Looking for a perfect mix of scenery, elevation training, and a smooth recovery jog? This Dougherty Hills Dog Park route combines a peaceful trail, a solid hill workout, and an easy cooldown, making it an excellent option for runners who want to switch up their routine.

The Route

Start at Alamo Creek Park, where you can park your car and begin your run in a relaxed, tree-lined setting. From here, hop onto the creekside trail, a flat and scenic path that follows the natural curve of the creek. It’s a great spot to shake out your legs before the real challenge ahead.

The Warm-Up: The trail gently leads you to Amador Valley Boulevard, where you’ll continue for about a mileuntil you reach the Dougherty Hills Dog Park hill. This gradual incline sets the stage for the workout, helping you ease into the climb.

⛰️ Hill Repeats at Dougherty Hills Dog Park: Once you reach the hill, it’s time to get to work. The steep inclinemakes it an ideal place for hill repeats, whether you’re focusing on powerful sprints, sustained efforts, or steady climbs. The grassy areas and open space around the park make it a refreshing break from typical urban running routes.

The Cooldown: After you’ve tackled the hill, reward yourself with an easy jog back along the same route. The creekside trail is a perfect place to wind down, allowing your legs to recover while you soak in the peaceful surroundings. By the time you return to Alamo Creek Park, you’ll have logged a well-rounded workout with the perfect balance of effort and recovery.

Why This Route Works for a Great Workout

✅ Scenic Warm-Up – The creekside trail makes for a relaxed start to ease into the run.

✅ Hill Training – The Dougherty Hills Dog Park incline is a challenging but rewarding spot for hill repeats.

✅ Smooth Cooldown – The return jog on the trail allows for a gradual recovery without the harsh impact of pavement.

This simple but effective route combines strength training and endurance with a beautiful natural setting, making it a great choice for runners looking to add variety to their routine. 🌿

Pro Tip

During the rainy season this hill can get pretty muddy so watch your step. And in summers you may occasionally see a snack especially before the spring grass has been cleared from both sides.