55We loved this Sniffspot! It was rather easy to find with the directions and the little hike up to the water tank was perfect exercise for both my pup and myself! It was a beautiful view from up top and we had such a great time exploring the property. Tiffany L.
Tiffany L.
February 2024
We loved this Sniffspot! It was rather easy to find with the directions and the little hike up to the water tank was perfect exercise for both my pup and myself! It was a beautiful view from up top and we had such a great time exploring the property.
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55We had a great experience hiking at Kandi’s! Directions made it very easy to find the parking spot and the trail. Spent an easy hour hiking up and down the hill a few times, listening to the frogs, and neighboring horses and rooster. Thankful for spots like this! Katie B.
Katie B.
February 2024
We had a great experience hiking at Kandi’s! Directions made it very easy to find the parking spot and the trail. Spent an easy hour hiking up and down the hill a few times, listening to the frogs, and neighboring horses and rooster. Thankful for spots like this!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Kandi’s sniffspot is a great location if you need a place that seems more rural like. I noticed on another comment mentioned “junk” around. This is someone’s home, renovations come and go. It’s a beautiful location. My dog has very poor recall, so I had him leashed 10ft + the whole time and had peace of mind (there’s two gates and one of them is used by the host so people may be coming in and out, keep that in mind. There were some people working on a yurt like home on the property and kids (not an issue for us but keep that in mind) It’s a large property to explore. There’s domestic chickens, lots of creeks and a few ponds. I went the wrong way 3 times to try to get to the main trail 🤣. But next time I go I will definitely go the way she explains to go for a steep hike! It’s exactly what we we’re looking for. I ran out of time so I headed back but will be back with a better idea of what to expect.
I will say I didn’t see any dog bowls? I brought my own collapsible one just in case. I also brought my own poop bags (was told I could leave them in any of the grey bins) I also love that there was a porta potty, haven’t seen one provided in any of the sniff spots I’ve been to. This is overall a beautiful place to explore, we will be back :)
Diana P.
Diana P.
February 2024
Kandi’s sniffspot is a great location if you need a place that seems more rural like. I noticed on another comment mentioned “junk” around. This is someone’s home, renovations come and go. It’s a beautiful location. My dog has very poor recall, so I had him leashed 10ft + the whole time and had peace of mind (there’s two gates and one of them is used by the host so people may be coming in and out, keep that in mind. There were some people working on a yurt like home on the property and kids (not an issue for us but keep that in mind) It’s a large property to explore. There’s domestic chickens, lots of creeks and a few ponds. I went the wrong way 3 times to try to get to the main trail 🤣. But next time I go I will definitely go the way she explains to go for a steep hike! It’s exactly what we we’re looking for. I ran out of time so I headed back but will be back with a better idea of what to expect.
I will say I didn’t see any dog bowls? I brought my own collapsible one just in case. I also brought my own poop bags (was told I could leave them in any of the grey bins) I also love that there was a porta potty, haven’t seen one provided in any of the sniff spots I’ve been to. This is overall a beautiful place to explore, we will be back :)
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Bailey had a wonderful time running up and down the trails! She went for a dip in the pond to refresh herself. lol. The views are wonderful! We all had a terrific experience. Kandi was very responsive and gave detailed directions which were easy to follow.
We will definitely be back for more romping!!
Thank you so much for your hospitality , Kandi!! 🙏💖Mimi S.
Mimi S.
February 2024
Bailey had a wonderful time running up and down the trails! She went for a dip in the pond to refresh herself. lol. The views are wonderful! We all had a terrific experience. Kandi was very responsive and gave detailed directions which were easy to follow.
We will definitely be back for more romping!!
Thank you so much for your hospitality , Kandi!! 🙏💖
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55We had a great time exploring the property and enjoying the charming ambiance. My dogs both really got to stretch their legs, and the slopes help us get a more varied workout. They both took a dip in the pond. We'll be coming back!
Vickie C.
Vickie C.
March 2024
We had a great time exploring the property and enjoying the charming ambiance. My dogs both really got to stretch their legs, and the slopes help us get a more varied workout. They both took a dip in the pond. We'll be coming back!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Thank you Kandi! Very private road/home. Kandis directions, you can’t miss the entrance, I promise! We covered almost 2 miles doing all of the trails and walking around! Lots of fun. 60 mins was perfect. Mix of sun and shade when walking around. The yurt was gorgeous and a fun sight to see. No one else was around, very quiet, isolated and beautiful views @ the ends! I could not figure out how to fill up the dogs water bowls so make sure to bring your own water! Just warning, lots of bees, yellow jackets & I did find a few ticks despite us staying on all the trails! To the bath the dogs and I shall go! And yes it is muddy, but that’s what I would expect so no surprises there! Sara M.
Sara M.
March 2024
Thank you Kandi! Very private road/home. Kandis directions, you can’t miss the entrance, I promise! We covered almost 2 miles doing all of the trails and walking around! Lots of fun. 60 mins was perfect. Mix of sun and shade when walking around. The yurt was gorgeous and a fun sight to see. No one else was around, very quiet, isolated and beautiful views @ the ends! I could not figure out how to fill up the dogs water bowls so make sure to bring your own water! Just warning, lots of bees, yellow jackets & I did find a few ticks despite us staying on all the trails! To the bath the dogs and I shall go! And yes it is muddy, but that’s what I would expect so no surprises there!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Our dogs had so much fun here! Took my dog here to celebrate his 2nd birthday so he had all the room to run! Our dogs LOVED playing in the water and the mud. We checked out the chickens and the pig (Blu wasn’t a fan lol). There was more than enough land to explore and play around. It was a little bit confusing on where we were supposed to go when we first parked but found our way pretty quickly! Rachelle R.
Rachelle R.
March 2024
Our dogs had so much fun here! Took my dog here to celebrate his 2nd birthday so he had all the room to run! Our dogs LOVED playing in the water and the mud. We checked out the chickens and the pig (Blu wasn’t a fan lol). There was more than enough land to explore and play around. It was a little bit confusing on where we were supposed to go when we first parked but found our way pretty quickly!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Great place for the pups to explore! I have a reactive foster and it was so cute to see him exploring and swimming when he normally has to be on leash and away from other dogs. Thank you for such a nice spot!Charlene T.
Charlene T.
March 2024
Great place for the pups to explore! I have a reactive foster and it was so cute to see him exploring and swimming when he normally has to be on leash and away from other dogs. Thank you for such a nice spot!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55We needed an activity to wear out the pups before the weekend rain started. This was just the ticket. We left the pups off leash and went through a few of the hikes on property. Property was clean and had beautiful views. Our daughter loved the tire swings and chickens! The trip worked, we have two happy and exhausted corgis and got to spend a Saturday morning doing something together as a family. Jen H.
Jen H.
March 2024
We needed an activity to wear out the pups before the weekend rain started. This was just the ticket. We left the pups off leash and went through a few of the hikes on property. Property was clean and had beautiful views. Our daughter loved the tire swings and chickens! The trip worked, we have two happy and exhausted corgis and got to spend a Saturday morning doing something together as a family.
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Gracie had tons of fun at Kandi’s Sniffspot! She loved jumping in and out of the stream and running across the little bridge. lol she definitely got muddy but had the best time. We kept out of the woodsy area Kandi mentioned may have some poison oak so no issues there. Still had tons of space to explore and do zoomies. We loved the little trail with incline. There were great views and little resting spots. Slight challenge but not impossible and completed within our reservation time. Also ran into Kandi when they were driving in. She was so friendly and welcoming. We will be coming back!Ruren C.
Ruren C.
March 2024
Gracie had tons of fun at Kandi’s Sniffspot! She loved jumping in and out of the stream and running across the little bridge. lol she definitely got muddy but had the best time. We kept out of the woodsy area Kandi mentioned may have some poison oak so no issues there. Still had tons of space to explore and do zoomies. We loved the little trail with incline. There were great views and little resting spots. Slight challenge but not impossible and completed within our reservation time. Also ran into Kandi when they were driving in. She was so friendly and welcoming. We will be coming back!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55This spot is peaceful, beautiful and off the beaten track. My dog and I had a wonderful time and there is much to explore so we will be back soon.Antonia I.
Antonia I.
March 2024
This spot is peaceful, beautiful and off the beaten track. My dog and I had a wonderful time and there is much to explore so we will be back soon.
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Great visit! A few young adults on property playing on the zipline and gate opens right on road. Neither an issue for us. Wish I could move onto the property:):):)kathleen n.
kathleen n.
March 2024
Great visit! A few young adults on property playing on the zipline and gate opens right on road. Neither an issue for us. Wish I could move onto the property:):):)
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Without knowing much about the lay out we proceeded up the stairs to the left of the parking area and found a little sitting area and grassy space, up the hill further was a dirt road cleared of brush which took us down a ways to the right where we came upon a dwelling, beyond the dwelling was the stream and pond and another cleared roadway.
Up above the pond near the chicken coop was another cleared dirt road- our little guy loved running around. We made a couple loops not wanting to get too deep into the property and also mindful of how overgrown everything was due to all the rain we wanted to be safe. Our dog ran as fast as he could and enjoyed all the different aspects of this mostly natural environment. Thank you for sharing your property what a wonderful gift to the pups and their parents. Best part of our day!Wendy P.
Wendy P.
April 2024
Without knowing much about the lay out we proceeded up the stairs to the left of the parking area and found a little sitting area and grassy space, up the hill further was a dirt road cleared of brush which took us down a ways to the right where we came upon a dwelling, beyond the dwelling was the stream and pond and another cleared roadway.
Up above the pond near the chicken coop was another cleared dirt road- our little guy loved running around. We made a couple loops not wanting to get too deep into the property and also mindful of how overgrown everything was due to all the rain we wanted to be safe. Our dog ran as fast as he could and enjoyed all the different aspects of this mostly natural environment. Thank you for sharing your property what a wonderful gift to the pups and their parents. Best part of our day!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55Atlas had the BEST time playing here. She made a beeline for the pond, and spent the first 30ish minutes jumping in the water (making sure to splash me every chance she got 😂). We spent some time wandering around the property - so awesome. I mentioned to my partner if I lived/grew up there I would spend all my time outside. We completely missed the trail by main house when we arrived - however we ran into a resident who sent us in the right direction so we walked up to the water tower to see some awesome views. I caught the cutest frog I have ever seen and Atlas had endless zoomies. We really enjoyed our time here and will be back!!
A couple notes for other pet parents:
1. there were some chickens, a pig (!!) and a rabbit all enclosed kind of in the back area up the hill behind the pond. I loved seeing them, and my pup was super curious too. If this might be too distracting for your dog, possibly avoid this part but didn't bother us at all. I was smitten with all the animals.
2. I found a tick on my dog while doing our routine check. This is super common in my family as my dog likes to LEAP through tall grass lol. Bugs exist, just a reminder to check yourself and your dog 💕Ashley X.
Ashley X.
April 2024
Atlas had the BEST time playing here. She made a beeline for the pond, and spent the first 30ish minutes jumping in the water (making sure to splash me every chance she got 😂). We spent some time wandering around the property - so awesome. I mentioned to my partner if I lived/grew up there I would spend all my time outside. We completely missed the trail by main house when we arrived - however we ran into a resident who sent us in the right direction so we walked up to the water tower to see some awesome views. I caught the cutest frog I have ever seen and Atlas had endless zoomies. We really enjoyed our time here and will be back!!
A couple notes for other pet parents:
1. there were some chickens, a pig (!!) and a rabbit all enclosed kind of in the back area up the hill behind the pond. I loved seeing them, and my pup was super curious too. If this might be too distracting for your dog, possibly avoid this part but didn't bother us at all. I was smitten with all the animals.
2. I found a tick on my dog while doing our routine check. This is super common in my family as my dog likes to LEAP through tall grass lol. Bugs exist, just a reminder to check yourself and your dog 💕
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55this was an amazing experience!! a lot of first experiences for my pup! first time off leash in a woodsy setting like this. it was perfect to test her training! she really enjoyed everything about this place. it was fun to meet the pigs and chickens! they are kept away in a coop so no worrying about our pup getting too close. lots of cool wild birds and other wildlife. the ponds were the best part it was fun seeing my dog get comfortable with them over the two hours we were there. a few different trails to hike along with beautiful views everywhere. like everyone else says i wish i lived here!! the people here are so kind! my dogs did bark at someone she wasn’t expecting to see and they were so kind about it! everyone’s dog should get to experience this. i think it would be perfect for more reactive dogs too even if they aren’t off leash trained as the hiking opportunities are wonderful and secluded. aly c.
aly c.
April 2024
this was an amazing experience!! a lot of first experiences for my pup! first time off leash in a woodsy setting like this. it was perfect to test her training! she really enjoyed everything about this place. it was fun to meet the pigs and chickens! they are kept away in a coop so no worrying about our pup getting too close. lots of cool wild birds and other wildlife. the ponds were the best part it was fun seeing my dog get comfortable with them over the two hours we were there. a few different trails to hike along with beautiful views everywhere. like everyone else says i wish i lived here!! the people here are so kind! my dogs did bark at someone she wasn’t expecting to see and they were so kind about it! everyone’s dog should get to experience this. i think it would be perfect for more reactive dogs too even if they aren’t off leash trained as the hiking opportunities are wonderful and secluded.
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55If you have a water dog that likes to swim expect a dirty critter needing a bath afterwards as the shore of the pond are dirt and mud. However, it's definitely a very cool spot. I was told to be aware of some poison oak but didn't have time to explore the entire property since we had fun at the pond for a while. Worth exploring and probably more pace of mind if your dog listens well and doesn't disappear into the overgrown foliage out of sight since the property is very large. The drive is easier from Gopher Canyon than Twin Oaks Valley, great description and ready to follow directions. My dog had a blast! Marion W.
Marion W.
April 2024
If you have a water dog that likes to swim expect a dirty critter needing a bath afterwards as the shore of the pond are dirt and mud. However, it's definitely a very cool spot. I was told to be aware of some poison oak but didn't have time to explore the entire property since we had fun at the pond for a while. Worth exploring and probably more pace of mind if your dog listens well and doesn't disappear into the overgrown foliage out of sight since the property is very large. The drive is easier from Gopher Canyon than Twin Oaks Valley, great description and ready to follow directions. My dog had a blast!
Kandi's Private Dog Park In Vista/San Marcos | Sniffspot
55My husky, Glacier, loved Kandi’s! Although there were trails and a lot of property, it was difficult for us to get him away from the pond. He was obsessed with all of the smells in and around the pond and spent almost our entire visit digging in the mud, splashing in the water and chasing sticks. He zoomed around the property a few times as well, but the pond was his gold standard. Surprisingly enough, he had zero interest in the caged farm animals that we saw (a few chickens and rabbits). We also heard turkeys, to which he paid no mind. We did try a few trails, but he kept abandoning us to go back to the pond. It was great to have a safe, spacious place to allow him to roam around freely without worry. Loved this place and appreciate SniffSpot so much!Sherron B.
Sherron B.
May 2024
My husky, Glacier, loved Kandi’s! Although there were trails and a lot of property, it was difficult for us to get him away from the pond. He was obsessed with all of the smells in and around the pond and spent almost our entire visit digging in the mud, splashing in the water and chasing sticks. He zoomed around the property a few times as well, but the pond was his gold standard. Surprisingly enough, he had zero interest in the caged farm animals that we saw (a few chickens and rabbits). We also heard turkeys, to which he paid no mind. We did try a few trails, but he kept abandoning us to go back to the pond. It was great to have a safe, spacious place to allow him to roam around freely without worry. Loved this place and appreciate SniffSpot so much!
How do Vista'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 Vista 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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