California’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for road trip adventures, especially for those traveling with their dogs. Here are three meticulously planned dog-friendly road trips: Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes, Jenner up Highway 1 to Leggett, and Redding to Mount Shasta. Each route provides stunning scenery, pet-friendly stops, and unforgettable experiences for you and your furry companion.
Dog-friendly road trip: Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes
Starting your journey in Yosemite National Park, you’ll be greeted with towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and some of the most iconic views in the country. While many trails in Yosemite aren’t pet-friendly, the Wawona Meadow Loop offers a serene and accessible hike for you and your dog. The Bridalveil Fall walkway, with its misty spray, is another great spot for a leashed walk.
Leaving Yosemite, head east on Highway 120 towards Mono Lake. This ancient, saline lake, with its otherworldly tufa towers, makes for a fascinating stop. Wander through the eerie formations at the South Tufa area, where dogs on leash are welcome. Continuing south, take the June Lake Loop for a scenic drive, complete with crystal-clear lakes perfect for a picnic or a swim. The Parker Lake Trail offers a moderate hike with rewarding views.
Finally, arrive in Mammoth Lakes. Here, trails like the Convict Lake Loop and Horseshoe Lake Trail offer varied landscapes and breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the gondola ride up Mammoth Mountain for panoramic views that will leave both you and your dog in awe.Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the gondola in the summer months.
Dog-friendly road trip: Jenner to Leggett via Highway 1
Begin your coastal adventure in the charming town of Jenner, where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean. Start with a visit to Cafe Aquatica, known for its dog-friendly deck and occasional live music, providing a delightful atmosphere for both you and your furry friend. Your pup is welcome to join you at a table on their lawn or covered deck. Jenner offers a picturesque setting with its stunning coastal views, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Head over to Goat Rock Beach, where certain areas allow dogs—be sure to read the signs to stay in designated dog-friendly zones. The beach is a great spot for your pup to frolic in the surf. For a more extensive outdoor experience, explore the Jenner Headlands Preserve. While dogs must be kept on a leash and are restricted from certain trails, the preserve offers breathtaking hikes with panoramic views. As travelers head north along California’s coast, Point Arena offers a variety of dog-friendly activities and accommodations. The Point Arena Lighthouse welcomes pets, providing scenic views and comfortable amenities. The nearby Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands feature trails perfect for exploring with your dog, offering stunning coastal vistas.
Just south of Mendocino Village, known for its role in “Murder She Wrote,” the Little River Inn stands out for its pet-friendly amenities, including designated dining areas for guests with dogs. This charming inn also features a nine-hole golf course, tennis facilities, .
In Mendocino itself, the Stanford Inn and its Ravens Restaurant are incredibly dog-friendly. The Stanford Inn offers pet-friendly rooms and welcomes dogs throughout the property, including the Ravens Restaurant, which serves plant-based cuisine and provides a dedicated area for diners with pets.
The Mendocino Coast offers dramatic cliffs and serene beaches. The Mendocino Headlands State Park is ideal for a dog-friendly hike along the bluffs, where you can take in the sweeping ocean views.
Heading north from Mendocino Village to the dog-friendly town of Fort Bragg offers a delightful range of activities for you and your canine companion. Fort Bragg is known for its affordable beachside hotels and great seafood, making it an excellent stop for travelers with pets.
Dog-friendly activities in Fort Bragg include visits to several beaches where your dog can roam off-leash, such as Noyo Beach, which is located where the Noyo River meets the Pacific Ocean
For a unique experience, you can take your dog on the historic Skunk Train, a scenic ride through the redwoods that welcomes well-behaved, leashed dogs. Additionally, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens allow dogs on leashes, providing a beautiful and tranquil environment for both you and your pet to enjoy.
Fort Bragg also features the Fort Bragg Dog Park, where dogs can socialize and play off-leash in a safe, fenced area. These attractions, combined with the town’s dog-friendly atmosphere, make Fort Bragg an ideal destination for travelers with dogs.
Your final destination is Leggett, home to the iconic Chandelier Tree. This towering coastal redwood has a unique tunnel carved through its base, allowing you to drive through and create a memorable photo op with your furry friend.
Dog-friendly road trip: Redding to Mount Shasta
Start your northern California road trip in Redding, where the Sundial Bridge offers a striking architectural landmark and a scenic start to your journey. Cross the bridge and explore the trails of Turtle Bay Exploration Park, where leashed dogs are welcome.
Heading west on Highway 299, make your way to Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. This beautiful reservoir, surrounded by forested hills, offers dog-friendly trails and refreshing water activities. A swim in the clear waters is a great way for both you and your pup to cool off.
Continue northeast to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The majestic Burney Falls, cascading 129 feet into a mist-filled basin, is a sight to behold. Dogs are allowed on leash in the park, and a walk around the falls offers breathtaking views.
Conclude your journey at Mount Shasta, where the towering peak dominates the skyline. Hike the Black Butte Trail for panoramic views of the surrounding area, and spend some quiet moments by the serene waters of Lake Siskiyou. This mystical mountain region, with its crisp air and pristine beauty, is the perfect place to wrap up your adventure.
California’s diverse landscapes and dog-friendly destinations make for unforgettable road trips with your furry friend. Embark on these dog-friendly road trips to create lasting memories amid the Golden State’s natural splendor.
