Capital sipping experiences

group of friends sit at a table with a dog clinking full wine glasses

Sacramento is not only the star on the map of California, it’s a fabulous base camp for exploring wineries in and within a short distance of town (check out our list of great dog-friendly places to stay). Read more.

East to the foothills and apples galore

While parts of El Dorado County were impacted by the Caldor Fire in August and September, the Apple Hill Growers region north of Placerville (about 45 minutes from Sacramento on Highway 50) was spared. It’s 50-odd member farms, wineries and other establishments (almost all of them dog-friendly) kicked off the 2021 season in early September with regional events, individual grower events, kids’ activities and pumpkin patches galore. Read more.

Little Bit of Magic in El Dorado County

DogTrekkers in the know point their paws in fall toward the Apple Hill Growers region north of Highway 50 in El Dorado County near Placerville, where more than 50 member farms open their gates to the public for an applepalooza of festivities centered around the orb-shaped fruit. This year, there’s something new: the Apple Hill Hard Cider Trail, which makes its formal debut Sept. 15 with six producers showcasing their takes on the low-alcohol beverage that is taking America by storm. Read more.

Airstreams, dog-friendly glamping and more

Dakota at Mendocino Grove. Photo by Jennifer Brierley.

Vintage travel-trailers, “glamping” tents and luxury yurts are part of an outdoorsy trend that is spreading all up and down California.

Strike Gold With El Dorado County Wines

Collie and small dog in El Dorado County

Although sprawling El Dorado County has quite a few craft breweries, it’s better known for its wine, apples and other fresh produce. The EDC Wine Trail features more than a dozen wineries on both sides of Highway 50 that welcome dogs and provide scenic rural vistas in the process. Read more.