By Sherri Krams | Moments Unleashed Pet Photography

As a pet photographer who’s spent over a decade photographing dogs in Sarasota and Bradenton, one of the things I get asked most often is:

“What are some fun things I can do with my dog around here?”

So I decided to put together a guide—a three-part blog series featuring my favorite dog-friendly places to walk, explore, relax, and reconnect. Between my own three dogs and the many pups I meet through my camera lens, I’ve spent years discovering the best local spots—some well-known, others quietly tucked away. But all of them are places I return to—for the fun, the connection, and the kind of everyday magic that’s worth remembering—especially when I have my camera in hand.

Whether you’re planning a peaceful outing, looking for fresh air and tail wags, or simply want a change of scenery, this series was made for you.

This is Part 1, focused on the best leashed walks and nature trails around Sarasota and Bradenton.

Part 2 will cover off-leash dog parks and dog-friendly beaches.

And in Part 3, I’ll share my go-to dog-friendly restaurants, markets, and social spots where pups are always welcome.

Stick around to the end of this post for a few simple tips on how to photograph your dog—even with just your phone.

Dog-Friendly Walks in Sarasota

Note: All these places require your dog to be on leash.

Sarasota Bayfront Park

A breezy waterfront favorite with palm trees, wide paths, and marina views. There’s plenty of space to explore—and you can grab a bite or cocktail at O’Leary’s while your pup relaxes at your feet. A great spot for people watching as well as the sunset.

The Bay Park

One of my personal favorites! This peaceful park offers shaded paths, open lawns, and even a small beach area where leashed dogs can wade. It’s one of the most photogenic parks in town, with a variety of backdrops in one walkable location—especially at sunset.

Nathan Benderson Park

This lakeside trail is perfect for calm morning walks or light jogs. The wide paved paths are great for strollers or older dogs, and the clean, open space looks beautiful at sunrise and golden hour. There’s also a playground and picnic tables for the whole family.

Conservatory Park

Tucked off University Parkway, this quiet neighborhood park features a one-mile loop surrounded by trees and a lake. It’s rarely crowded and ideal for peaceful, shaded leashed walks.

Circus Hammock

A hidden gem (especially in the dry season) right next to 17th Street Dog Park. This 22-acre preserve offers shady, unpaved trails that feel like a secret forest in the middle of the city. Bring water—and maybe your camera—because it’s a lovely, low-traffic spot.

Myakka River State Park

One of Florida’s oldest and most iconic state parks. With miles of trails, prairie views, and boardwalks over wetlands, it’s a dream for both hiking and photography. Different seasons offer wildflowers, wildlife, and beautiful variety.

Note: Dogs aren’t allowed on the Canopy Walkway, but there’s so much else to explore.

Bradenton, Palmetto & Lakewood Ranch Trails

Robinson Preserve

A nature lover’s favorite. With boardwalks, mangrove tunnels, and a scenic observation tower overlooking the Skyway Bridge, this preserve is ideal for long, leashed walks surrounded by native Florida beauty.

Emerson Point Preserve

One of my personal go-tos—for both walks and photography sessions. This preserve offers multiple shady trails, open water views, forested areas, and even a small beach area that’s dog-friendly. It’s peaceful, a little wild, and full of natural charm. It’s worth the drive—and my preferred spot for signature sessions.

Bradenton Riverwalk

A scenic urban path along the Manatee River with plenty of space to stroll, relax, or enjoy the art, splash pad, or skate park atmosphere. There are often events and music happening, making it a fun option if your dog loves variety and you enjoy a city-meets-nature vibe.

Neal Preserve

Just before the Anna Maria Island bridge, this 120-acre preserve features shell trails, raised boardwalks, and a 20-foot observation tower. It’s usually quiet—perfect for a peaceful outing and a few stunning photo ops.

Heron’s Park Nature Retreat (Lakewood Ranch)

This 110-acre nature retreat is one of my new favorite discoveries. You’ll need to walk a bit to reach the best spots, but once you do, it’s absolutely worth it. The trails—both marked and unpaved—meander through peaceful woodlands and around two sparkling lakes: 12-acre Heron Lake and 27-acre Summerfield Lake.

There’s space for fishing and boating, but what I love most is the feeling of calm and connection that sets in the further you go. Bird-watchers will especially appreciate the habitat here, and for me, it has the quiet charm of a lakefront retreat. It’s perfect for thoughtful walks, nose-to-the-ground exploration, and the kind of photo sessions that feel like a true getaway—without leaving town.

Jiggs Landing Outpost (Bradenton)

Tucked along the Braden River, Jiggs Landing is a quiet spot full of Old Florida charm. Once a historic fishing camp, it now offers peaceful, leashed walks on wooden boardwalks, docks, and grassy areas by the water. You might spot birds, turtles… and yes, the occasional gator (so keep those pups leashed!).

There’s a snack bar, cabin rentals, and even live music a few evenings a week, which gives the place a relaxed, community feel. It’s a client favorite for casual, earthy photo sessions—and one of those under-the-radar spots where time slows down and new smells await around every turn.

Tips for Your Trail Day

• Leashes are required at all parks unless otherwise posted

• Bring waste bags, water, and a towel (especially after rain)

• Early morning or late afternoon = cooler temps and better light

• Many of these places are stunning for casual photos—snap away, or bring me along if you’d like something extra special

Bonus: Quick Photo Tips (Even with a Cell Phone)

• Avoid direct, midday sun. Dogs squint and harsh shadows take over—look for soft, open shade.
•  Watch your background. If your dog is in shade and the background is bright, your eye goes straight to the light (not your dog). Keep it even and simple.
•  Use Burst Mode. You’ll increase your chances of capturing a clean, sharp image—especially with a wiggly pup.
• Why do your dog’s photos come out blurry? Cell phone cameras still struggle with fast-moving subjects. They’re amazing, but they’re not magic. For anything action-based, timing and lighting are everything.
• Like Portrait Mode? You can create a similar effect by placing your pup far away from the background—this adds soft blur behind them and makes your dog stand out.
• Get down to their level. Some of the most expressive, emotional photos happen when you’re eye to eye. I often shoot lying flat on my belly—yes, really!