Big Bear Lake sparkles as summer transitions to autumn and the leaves start turning yellow, orange and red. Warm, sun-soaked days are refreshed with cooler evenings, when inky night skies beckon stargazers. Your four-legged friends get even more room to

If you have a passion for pups, photography and travel, you are at the right place. Snap photos of your four-legged friends enjoying beaches, lakes, mountain trails, picnic grounds and other California (or east Lake Tahoe/Nevada) attractions and enter the

Remember the magic of sleepaway camp? Now imagine a similar adventure, but for adults – with your pup by your side! That dream is real during Wild Blue Dogs’ 2024 fall camp, September 16 to 22. Set on the Lake

Rich history meets modern charm at the Little River Inn, a family-owned, dog-friendly jewel that’s been a Mendocino County standout for more than 80 years. Anchored by an 1853 Victorian, the property is just minutes from the village of Mendocino

Yosemite Mariposa County is a premier travel destination for all adventurers, no matter how many legs they have. You and your furry companions will have numerous activities and amenities at the tip of your fingers, or paws. Here’s a detailed

For the second consecutive year, DogTrekker is proudly partnering with Visit Oakland to give away an Oakland DogCation®! Don’t miss your chance to win this incredible prize package featuring two nights at the pup-passionate Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont

Berkeley Humane’s biggest annual adopt-a-thon and family-friendly street fair, Bark & Meow Around the Block returns on Saturday, September 7, 2024! This outdoor, free-to-attend event at 2700 Ninth St. Berkeley features hundreds of adoptable animals from shelters and rescues throughout the Bay

Big Bear Lake, a hidden gem in the San Bernardino Mountains, is a respite for dog lovers seeking a cool alternative from the heat of the adjacent desert and Southern California areas. This picturesque mountain town, renowned for its mild

Napa Humane is dedicated to promoting the welfare of companion animals through protection, advocacy, education, and by example. You can contribute to their mission and showcase your pet in their 2025 calendar by participating in their Pet Photo Contest. Hurry,

Oakland is a fantastic place to visit or live with your dog. It’s sunny when San Francisco is foggy, and it’s very dog-friendly when some communities try to discourage dog people. Some of the best parks (can you say towering

Our rescue dog Bella, who came to us from Rocket Dog Rescue, was a world-class escape artist. There was no gate she couldn’t get through, no fence she couldn’t scale or jump, no harness she couldn’t wiggle out of. Bella

Calling all dog lovers and pet parents! You’re invited to the inaugural Big Bear Puptopia Festival this July!

On a sun-drenched summer afternoon, few activities feel better than splashing in a cool lake – and that goes for both pups

Traveling through Yosemite can be the experience of a lifetime; sharing the experience with your favorite furry companion is a priceless memory you both will cherish. However, navigating the park’s regulations for pets requires some preparation. Luckily, the region is

Grab your best friend and a leash and head to Bark in the Park Saturday, September 21 at William Street Park in downtown San Jose! Dogs and their people will have a great time at the largest dog festival in

Fall is a great time to visit Lake Tahoe, thanks to fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and, of course, that dazzling blue water. FALL CAMP Wild Blue Dogs holds their Fall Camp activities September 16 – 22 on a fenced, 33-acre

Summer in California means sandcastles, swimming, shoreline walks, and patio dinners at sunset – all with your dog in tow. As we look ahead to this year’s splash season, the DogTrekker team has put together pup-tested itineraries for some of

Mendocino County makes headlines for so many reasons, including its dog-friendly trails, rails, rivers, peaks and Pacific splendor. This wonderous playground presents unforgettable surprises, whether you’re hiking redwood-shaded routes, sampling local wines, touring a lighthouse or shopping at small-town galleries.

The Yosemite Mariposa County region offers an adventure-filled vacation not just for humans but for their four-legged companions as well. The stunning scenery and outdoor activities that evoke feelings of joy and awe in humans are bound to elevate the

The East Bay SPCA Growl Meow & Wine silent auction is now open to the public! You can bid on hundreds of gifts and packages, ranging from a one-night stay at the Claremont Hotel and Spa to sustainable dog leashes from

Proud of its legacy of innovation and leadership since its founding in 1874, the East Bay SPCA has continuously evolved to address community needs and animal welfare challenges. Key milestones include establishing its first shelter in downtown Oakland in 1922,

The city of Concord features all the elements of a memorable California getaway: think culinary treats, craft beer, cultural gems, rich heritage, and pretty parks in every direction. This dynamic community, just 30 miles from San Francisco, is also incredibly dog-friendly

Welcome to the 2024 Event Season Wondering what dog-friendly events are coming up this spring and into summer? DogTrekker’s seasonal event section has you covered. The months ahead feature a range of dog-friendly, family-friendly things to do, including adoptathons, fundraisers, walks, costume

Grab your leash and your pup’s favorite toy because this is the ultimate guide to dog-friendly breweries in Greater Palm Springs! Whether you’re sipping a cold one or soaking up the sunshine, these tail-wagging patios are guaranteed to make your

Discover pet-friendly accommodations in the California deserts! From Ridgecrest’s rugged charm to Death Valley’s stark beauty, find welcoming places for you and your furry friend. Stay at Heritage Inn in Ridgecrest or Stovepipe Wells Village in Death Valley for comfortable

The eastern side of the Bay is world-renowned for its dog-friendly outdoor recreation. It’s also home to amazing animal welfare organizations that have cared for furry friends for several generations. Two standout organizations are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2024. The

As the country’s only nonprofit dog camp, Wild Blue Dogs at South Lake Tahoe offers grants for pet cancer treatments and supports cancer research. Your participation not only guarantees an exceptional camp experience with your dog but also aids an

Pleasant Hill, California is one of the most centrally located and pet-friendly destinations in the San Francisco Bay Area, making it a great home base for pet parents who are eager to explore all Northern California’s many attractions, including some

Turn travel dreams into real itineraries with the all-new DogTrekker.com. Your ultimate go-to guide for dog-friendly California adventure sparks inspiration while spotlighting destinations like the Shasta Cascade region (aka Upstate CA). This eight-county playground has more than a dozen national

Over the past decade, your ongoing engagement has enabled DogTrekker.com to support hundreds of dog rescue organizations statewide! As we launch the 2024 DogTrekker Reader Survey, your opinions will influence where we go next – while also helping us provide continued coverage

For DogTrekkers familiar with Nick’s Cove, located on Tamales Bay in West Marin County, the Boat Shack at the end of their 300 foot long pier has been an iconic and beloved feature. Sadly, a fire on January 7th of

Welcome to the ultimate guide for dog lovers in Greater Palm Springs! As a dedicated pup parent, you’re always looking for the ideal spot to soak up some sunshine with your furry friend. Get ready to explore the most tail-wagging, paw-some

As we paw our way into 2024, we continue our journey of discovering the best dog-friendly destinations across California. Join us in exploring dog-friendly scenic trails, welcoming hotels, and delightful restaurants. We also look forward to seeing pictures of your

Last week, we wished you a happy holiday season and listed the first five top destination stories of 2023. Here is part two of that popular series. Once again, the DogTrekker team wishes you and your two- and four-legged loved

As this year comes to a close, our greatest joy comes from expressing gratitude for the DogTrekker family. As we wish you this season’s warmest greetings, we’re also happy to share some of our top 2023 travel stories.  

Pup-friendly Pleasant Hill puts Northern California’s best within easy reach. Hike scenic East Bay canyons with your furry friend. Hop over to San Francisco for family attractions and culture. Sample world-class wines in Napa, Sonoma or Livermore. Then, relax at

November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, a month dedicated to helping older pets find loving homes. Senior pets are the last to be adopted from shelters, leaving them with an increased risk of euthanasia. We thank all of

Autumn presents an ideal opportunity to explore California’s North Coast. The Stanford Inn, nestled in picturesque Mendocino, invites guests and their dogs to experience a special retreat this holiday season. Innkeepers Joan and Jeff Stanford mark more than 40 years

Mendocino County captivates those who travel with furry family members, and it has also enchanted DogTrekker readers for decades. With mist-cloaked valleys, ancient redwood stands, and stunning state parks that unfold along the coast and across inland peaks, you’ll discover

Few places are prettier than Yosemite in fall. Blue skies and mild temperatures make for pleasant outdoor activities, while vast stands of maples and dogwoods put on a colorful show. Traffic is lighter during the fall season, and hotels in

DogTrekker team members are big fans of Sunset, the iconic publication that’s celebrating 125 years in 2023. The California-based magazine recently announced its Sunset Travel Awards, including several must-visit standouts on the Best City Getaways list.

Mmmmm tacos! Concord has long been home to deliciously authentic, family-owned taquerias and restaurants. The Concord Taco Trail has 40+ places offering specialty and signature tacos including al pastor, carnitas, carne asada, crispy fish, grilled tilapia, vegitariano, and even filet

The Noyo Harbor inn is a Craftsman-style dream with spa treatments, waterfront dining and access to adventures for you and your four-legged family members. From here, it’s easy to explore coastal paths, canoe routes, train rides and restaurant patios across

Bark in the Park is back on September 16 at William Street Park in San Jose from 10am to 5pm. Bark is the Park is the largest dog festival in the United States with fun for the entire family, including

Few places match Mendocino’s natural beauty. The Stanford Inn stretches along 10 coastal acres here, framed by USDA-certified organic gardens, towering trees and Pacific Ocean views. Dog-friendly for 43 years and counting, this charming getaway by innkeepers Jeff and Joan

Rancho Cordova curves along the American River between Sacramento and Folsom, in Northern California’s sun-splashed Gold Country. This charming, dog-friendly community has trails, parks, open-air patios, and nearly a dozen hotels that welcome four-legged family members.

The charming Sam Brannan and Leonitus story In the early days of Calistoga, California, a man named Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland dog, Leonitus, embarked on a journey to shape a thriving resort town. Brannan, with Leonitus’ watchful gaze

Berkeley Humane’s biggest annual adopt-a-thon and family-friendly event, Bark & Meow Around the Block, will return on Saturday, August 26, 2023! 

Rancho Cordova, a suburban community on Highway 50 about 15 miles east of downtown Sacramento, is a great jumping-off place for forays into the Sierra foothills, as well as a beer lover’s destination in itself. It is the home of

Come support Napa Humane at the 12th Annual Walk for Animals fundraising event at Yountville Community Park. This short stroll through town goes miles and miles for Napa Valley’s companion animals. Register, fundraise, walk, then participate in the day’s festivities,

To make summer memories on the California coast, book a stay at the iconic Little River Inn. This very dog-friendly jewel just south of Mendocino overlooks the majestic Pacific Ocean, and it’s a short walk from state beachfront and trails. The

DogTrekker’s newest city partner, Greater Ontario, is celebrating restaurant week this week through July 16. Check out the videos showcasing some of their delicious restaurants just waiting for you to try them!

Summer is finally here and as heat intensifies throughout California this week, hikers may notice an increased presence of snakes along their favorite trails. Our friends at the East Bay Regional Park District have some rattlesnake safety tips, what to

Check out these events for a cause! If you missed California rescue/adoption events this spring, no worries, the summer season is just beginning. DogTrekker.com’s event section is filled with adoptathons, fundraisers, walks, costume contests, and more. From Bark in the Park

Join Napa Humane for a dog-friendly wine tasting weekend benefitting its life-saving programs and services for Napa Valley companion animals. Pawsport Yountville perks are valid for the duration of the Pawsport event June 23-25, 2023.

Let’s admit it. DogTrekkers are spoiled here in sun-kissed California. We escape to places where palm trees sway, and waves crash.

Spring in Yosemite is incredible this year with bigger and more beautiful spectacular waterfalls, and no reservations needed! California dog parents are perfectly positioned for a visit. Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park are an easy drive from just about

Welcome to Placer County, a 1,400-square-mile playground where dog-friendly fun is always in season. From cosmopolitan Roseville and Rocklin,

The Little River Inn rolls out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged friends. They offer two fabulous packages: the Water Dog Sea Cave Package and the River Dog Package. Choose one or choose both! The Water Dog Sea

Attention all dog lovers! Don’t miss out on the tail-waggin’ good time at Wild Blue Dogs’ fall camp experiences in Lake Tahoe.

Year after year, DogTrekkers tell us that the North Coast is their favorite California coastal getaway and Fort Bragg is a popular home base for enjoying spring and summer canoe routes, coastal trails, photo walks and Skunk Train rides. Welcome

Join the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) at their annual Animals on Broadway fundraiser on May 7 at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek. ARF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving the lives of homeless animals in the Bay Area. By

California’s Gold Country, home to the Gold Rush in 1849, combines history, nature, authentic American West small towns, a sensational culinary scene, wine, microbreweries, and majestic scenery in a captivating way that no other California region rivals. The gold rush

California’s legendary, dog-friendly landscapes draw millions of pet parents and pups every year. The Golden State promises extraordinary adventures, whether you’re splashing in alpine lakes along Sierra trails or playing fetch in the neighborhood park. It’s our duty to protect

DogTrekkers are a giving bunch as witnessed by their support for the adoption/rescue community through donations, volunteering, and attendance at

The city of Concord features all the elements of a memorable California getaway: think culinary treats, craft beer, cultural gems, rich heritage, and pretty parks in every direction. This dynamic community, just 30 miles from San Francisco, is also incredibly dog-friendly and

Our pups have discerning tastes: good sleeps, good eats and plenty of play. Just north of San Francisco, the ‘North of Ordinary’ counties of California – Lake, Mendocino, Humboldt and Del Norte – offer plenty of fun for both you

Four-paw fun at Lake Tahoe? While helping a dog-focused nonprofit? We’re all ears… Wild Blue Dogs is now booking its 2023 camp experiences, and you’ll enjoy exclusive rates when you register and make a deposit by March 15 (summer camp)

If your vision of a perfect dog-friendly Palm Springs region vacation includes endless blue skies, awe-inspiring mountains, sparkling pools, swaying palm trees, and lots of tail-wagging fun in the sun, you’ve come to the right place: Greater Palm Springs.

Most East Bay Regional Parks remain closed due to recent storms and conditions, including downed trees, falling branches, flooding and mudslides. Storm damage in parks can create potential safety hazards that cannot be predicted.

The new year is like a blank book, and the pen is in your hand. Or, maybe it’s in the paw of your four-legged best friend. However you document your 2023 travel aspirations and dreams, you can count on DogTrekker.com.

Paséa brings winter magic to Southern California as their annual Ice Rink at Paséa Hotel & Spa returns November 25 – December 31.

Yosemite National Park is a four-season playground with dog-friendly appeal. The destination shines during the quieter winter season, when sunshine sparkles off snowy peaks and icy waterways. Frosty forests set the backdrop for snowshoeing, skiing, skating and more. Some lower-elevation

In the Sierra Mountains, you’ll find places to explore and activities to enjoy, with one-of-a-kind, pet-friendly lodging at Tenaya Lodge.

Fall is a wonderful time to travel, especially to the North Coast of California. This holiday season, the Stanford Inn in scenic Mendocino is your “natural” choice for the entire family—including dogs, of course.

As the season changes, an entire new world opens up in and around Yosemite National Park. It is a great time of the year to hike, explore, relax and enjoy the fall foliage. Now is the perfect time to plan

Halloween dog costumes can be fun—if you consider them from your dog’s point of view. Here are some tips from our friends at Sage Veterinary Center and the Humane Society.

Explore an unfamiliar wine region or two, snag a picnic table or a fire-pit seat, talk wine, be social (you and your pup) and be informed.

You know that awesome spinning in circles routine your pup does before going on walks or getting a treat? It’s going to happen a lot in Mammoth Lakes.

Chances are your dog loves to Visit Mammoth as much as you do, if not more. As Fido watches you pack the car with hiking, fishing and bike gear he anxiously waits for his dog bowl and bed to be put in

The 11th annual Walk for Animals event benefiting Napa Valley’s companion animals is not only the community’s largest pet-friendly event, it’s also Napa Humane’s biggest annual fundraiser.

Win a two-night DogCation® at one of the three Beachcomber Hotel properties in Fort Bragg: The Beachcomber Motel, Surf & Sand Lodge, or the Beach House Inn. In addition, each prize package will include a Skunk Train family pack, bike

Your dog deserves a vacation too! The Little River Inn is rolling out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged companions with their dog kayaking packages.

Home to towering waterfalls and 200-foot-tall giant sequoias, there’s no place like Yosemite. And Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite puts you just two miles from Yosemite National Park.

National Park Service beaches and trails that were formally open to dogs, both leashed and unleashed, have tightened those leashes by restricting or have even banned access.

In sun-dappled Mendocino County, summer is in full swing! You’ll find plenty of room to roam here, whether you venture to the coast for cool, clear air, or head inland for winery patios and exciting events.

Dreaming of Lake Tahoe’s mountain landscapes, fresh air and hiking adventures? Interested in private beach access, plus a full week of fun and education for you and your pups? You can still catch the early-bird rates for the Wild Blue

Located just two miles from Yosemite National Park, dog-friendly Tenaya Lodge specializes in memorable summer moments for the entire family.

Yes, we had a dry January, but the big storms in late December filled lakes and streams and created a hefty Sierra snowpack. The payoff: Waterfall season! Here are some late winter/early spring hikes with watery rewards at the end.

In Yosemite, you’ll embark on a getaway you and your little buddy will never forget. Together, you can explore the wonders of the Sierra region at a full-service resort that offers 75 acres of outdoor recreation and accommodations.

Thousands of splash spots in California await people and pups eager to get wet in the great outdoors.

The Little River Inn brings back its very popular Water Dog package at the Little River Inn Resort & Spa, perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. You’ll enjoy a two-night stay in a pet-friendly guest room, a Kayak Albion River

In his ten years, this Lab/border collie/cattle dog mix traveled to seven states, but most of all he loved going anywhere DogTrekker recommended.

If you enjoy adventuring with your dog and have always wanted to experience Yosemite National Park, then Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is for you.

The “Borrow a Buddy” program is a great partnership between the Beachcomber Motel, Surf & Sand Lodge and the Beach House Inn, all in Fort Bragg, and the Mendocino Coast Humane Society.

Henry Cowell is a must. Locals and visitors alike love the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Henry Cowell has it all. For hikes with the pup, use the main park entrance off Highway 9 and access the Pipeline

Spring is the perfect time to visit Yosemite with your pups as the snowpack melts, waterfalls rush and wildflowers start to bloom.

Not many of us think of heading north to Redding and the eight-county Shasta Cascade region in winter; it’s known to be a spring-summer-fall destination.

Meet Faraday. Rescued by two good samaritans from years wandering alone in the vineyards of central California, this lost soul with the gentle heart was taken to a local vet for treatment. The news was very sad. Faraday suffered from

Time indoors with a dog can be especially difficult for those who live in apartments or don’t have their own backyard. A bored dog can become stressed, destructive, and even depressed.