Redding calls itself the Trail Capital of California, with 80 miles of paths within city limits. The Sacramento River Trail runs 17.5 miles from the Sundial Bridge to Shasta Dam, with more options on nearby BLM lands.
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Concord, just 30 miles from San Francisco, pairs a booming craft beer trail with thousands of acres of open space near Mount Diablo. Dog-friendly hotels, breweries, and the Iron Horse Trail make it an easy getaway.
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The John Muir Land Trust protects over 2,500 acres of open space in Contra Costa County, including 1,200-acre Fernandez Ranch and ridge-top Acalanes Preserve. Many properties allow off-leash dogs away from developed areas.
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The Shasta-Cascade region offers spectacular waterfalls, dog-friendly cabin retreats near Shasta Lake, and fly-fishing at Hat Creek, all within striking distance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Winter is a perfect time to head north with your pup.
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Concord and Pleasant Hill sit at the base of Mount Diablo, where summit views stretch 200 miles on clear days. The 32-mile Iron Horse Trail, Todos Santos Plaza, craft breweries, and dog-friendly restaurants round out a great East Bay outing.
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Suisun Valley in Solano County offers unpretentious wine country just a short drive from Vacaville, San Francisco, and Sacramento. With half a dozen dog-friendly tasting rooms and farm stands selling fresh produce, it's a perfect fall day trip.
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The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is a surprising getaway of old-time lift bridges, small towns, and levee roads. Dog-friendly wineries have popped up on both sides of the river, with live music, wood-fired pizza, and vineyard views to enjoy.
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You do not need to drive hours for a great dog-friendly camping trip. Folsom Lake, Samuel P. Taylor, Point Mugu, and Campland on the Bay in San Diego all offer close-in outdoor fun with your pup.
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Sacramento's craft beer scene is thriving, with over 40 breweries and nearly all of them dog-friendly. From Ruhstaller's downtown taproom to Bike Dog Brewing's Doggie Sundays, the city's hop-growing heritage makes it a great destination for beer-loving dog owners.
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Pleasant Hill in the East Bay offers affordable dog-friendly hotels, patio restaurants like Wence's Oyster Bar, and the 63-acre Paso Nogal Open Space with fenced dog parks. A solid base for exploring the Bay Area with your pup.
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Briones Regional Park near Pleasant Hill offers 6,255 acres of rolling green hills with panoramic views and off-leash trails. Nearby, the 32-mile Iron Horse Regional Trail follows an old rail corridor through charming East Bay towns.
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Redding is an easy drive from Sacramento with gorgeous spring scenery along the way. The Sheraton at the Sundial Bridge and the eco-friendly Gaia Hotel offer dog-friendly lodging with riverside trails and patio dining right outside your door.
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