The vast North Coast doubles as the Noyo Harbor Inn’s big, beautiful backyard. There’s magnificent scenery around every corner here, and extraordinary attractions warmly welcome pups and the humans who follow. Looking for small-town charm? Outdoor adventure? Rest and relaxation? This wonderland promises dog-gone good options for all. Build your itinerary around these five pup-friendly stops that are perennial DogTrekker favorites.
1. Leashed dogs are welcome at Glass Beach, on the southern side of MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg. Smooth, brilliant glass pieces make this pebbly stretch an intriguing place to explore, and it’s magical at sunset.
2. The Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail is a paved, ADA-accessible trail connecting MacKerricher State Park and Pomo Bluffs Park. The eight-mile path follows the coast and curves around Noyo Bay. It’s located less than a mile from Noyo Harbor Inn.
3. The historic Skunk Train crosses bridges, powers through tunnels and winds along Mendocino County’s rugged redwoods. Leashed pups can board with their families at the Fort Bragg or Willits depots. Reservations are recommended.
4. Dogs on leash enjoy free Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens admission when traveling with their people. Heritage roses, heathers, dahlias, hydrangeas and other plants bloom across nearly 50 acres. Look for waste bags and bins along garden paths.
5. The Big River Trail follows a haul road between Big River Beach and Mendocino Woodlands State Park. This multi-use, wheelchair-accessible trail offers estuary views and is open to leashed dogs as well as bikers, hikers, horseback riders and runners.
