Do you enjoy strolls with your pup? The mornings are getting slightly cooler and less humid; the perfect reason to treat your pup to a nature walk on a lovely day. And getting your furry friend out exercising is important for their health, too.

On the edge of West Pasco, the 103-acre Key Vista Nature Park in Holiday is waiting. Equipped with “Dog Mitts” (a nice way to say poop-scoop baggies) at the entrance of the winding trails, this park welcomes your four-legged friend, as long as they’re on a leash no more than 6 feet long. Before entering the trails, there’s a restroom for humans, too. It seemed to be the only one, so plan accordingly.

On the trail, signs direct you to two different paths. A sign in the parking area states that completing both trails is a 1.5-mile hike. Along the trails, there are picnic areas and benches–so pack a snack you and your pup can share. During the walk, we spotted two horseflies, so slap on bug spray if they’re usually attracted to you.

The snaking nature trail leads to a walking bridge. Approaching the bridge, the Gulf’s inlet borders the trail and makes for pleasant scenery. Signs declare no swimming is allowed. Be careful crossing the bridge. Although there are raised stoppers every foot or two, my pup pulling with curiosity made me catch myself from falling quite a few times.

Shortly after crossing the bridge, the trail leads you to the small beach–again, swimming is prohibited. A couple of people had chairs set up and were just enjoying the view–another perfect place to share a snack or take a rest from your trek. There was a group walking in front of us geared up to go fishing, so check where you and your pup plan on hanging out to be sure nothing harmful to your buddy was left behind; I didn’t spot anything during our trip.

Continue down the trail that led to the beach and the signs will direct you to a wooden lookout tower about 50 feet tall–enjoy the view from up there! And enjoy a fun day with your best bud!

Go-Do-See

Key Vista Nature Park
2700 Bailies Bluff Rd, Holiday
Open daily from dawn to dusk