San Mateo County's GGNRA lands offer scenic coastal walks with your dog, from the dramatic headlands at Mori Point in Pacifica to the sweeping ridgeline views atop Sweeney Ridge. Both on-leash and off-leash areas remain open under current rules.
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San Francisco's GGNRA lands wrap nearly the entire shoreline, from Fort Mason to Fort Funston. Dogs can romp off-leash at select beaches, explore 24 miles of Presidio trails, and take in million-dollar views along the Lands End path.
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More than 12,000 acres of GGNRA land in the Marin Headlands offer long on-leash walks and off-leash beach romps within view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Rodeo Beach, Muir Beach, and Fort Baker top the list of dog-friendly favorites.
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After years of legal battles over dog walking restrictions in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the National Park Service withdrew its controversial dog management plan in 2017. The original 1979 rules allowing dogs on GGNRA lands remain in effect.
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Mendocino County's vast public lands offer everything from off-leash coastal walks at Stornetta Public Lands to beach romps at Noyo Beach in Fort Bragg. The historic Point Arena Lighthouse even has pet-friendly vacation rentals right on the grounds.
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The 10-mile Bohemian Highway in Sonoma County winds through artist-filled communities, organic farms, and one-of-a-kind shops. Stay at the Creekside Inn in Guerneville, explore funky Occidental, stock up on sourdough in Freestone, and finish with coastal views at Goat Rock.
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The Tri-Valley region east of San Francisco is home to more than 50 wineries in the historic Livermore Valley, with two dozen welcoming dogs. Sip zins at Chouinard's barn tasting room, enjoy bocce at Garre, and take in vineyard views.
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Northern California has dog-friendly pumpkin patches worth a fall visit. Cool Patch Pumpkins in Dixon features the world's largest corn maze on 40 acres, while Dave's Pumpkin Farm and Farmer John's in Half Moon Bay offer hay rides and fun.
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San Francisco's hills reward hikers with fountain-filled parks, panoramic views, and hidden tree swings. Walk your dog to Huntington Park atop Nob Hill, explore off-leash areas in Golden Gate Park, or catch the flea market on Treasure Island.
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Off the Grid food-truck events in San Francisco and Sacramento serve up live music, kid zones, and a huge variety of mobile-kitchen fare. Friday nights at Fort Mason and Sunday Presidio Picnics are popular with dog-owning families.
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Straddling Alameda and Contra Costa counties, the Tri-Valley region offers dog-friendly wineries, craft breweries, restaurants and miles of trails just an hour from San Francisco. The Iron Horse Trail alone stretches 32 miles through charming towns.
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The Livermore Valley is home to more than 50 wineries, with 23 proudly welcoming dogs. Tasting fees and attitudes are relaxed at boutique operations where you and your pup can sample small-lot wines and picnic among the vines.
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