Lake Tahoe in winter means plowed trails, snowshoeing with your dog, and even skijoring across snowy landscapes. With over 20 miles of cleared paths and pet-friendly lodges from Truckee to South Lake Tahoe, cold-weather fun comes easy here.
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California SNO-Parks are among DogTrekker's most popular picks each winter. These snow-covered playgrounds on U.S. Forest Service land welcome dogs for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Grab a permit and arrive early for the best parking and fresh powder.
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Lake Tahoe has dog-friendly lodging for every budget, from the Ritz-Carlton to cozy B&B cottages on the West Shore. In winter, enjoy plowed walking trails, cross-country skiing, and heated patio dining in Truckee before cozying up by a fireplace.
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Placer County stretches from near Sacramento to Tahoe's north shore, offering dog-friendly trails at Auburn State Recreation Area and the lesser-known Cronan Ranch. Near the lake, Truckee and Palisades Tahoe round out the options for outdoor adventure with your pup.
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Lake Tahoe maintains a network of plowed winter trails perfect for walking your dog without skis or snowshoes. The Tahoe City Lakeside Trail, Truckee River Legacy Trail, and paths in Incline Village are all great options.
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After a snowstorm, North Lake Tahoe plows several walking trails so you and your dog can get outside without snowshoes or skis. Options include the Palisades Tahoe bike path, the Truckee River Legacy Trail, and many more around the lake.
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Skip the uphill hike and ride a dog-friendly gondola or tram at Mammoth Mountain, Northstar or Palisades Tahoe. Each resort offers enclosed lifts that welcome dogs, plus summit trails, restaurants and stunning mountain views at the top.
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Come September, High Sierra cabin resorts open up with shorter stays and easier bookings. The Lakes Basin area between Sierra and Plumas counties offers everything from rustic sleeping rooms with rowboats to upscale lodges with on-site breweries and spas.
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California offers plenty of paved, stroller-friendly trails where dogs are welcome too. From Lake Tahoe's Lam Watah Trail to San Francisco's Crissy Field and the historic Independence Trail near Nevada City, these paths work for wheels, feet and paws alike.
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Highway 89 along Tahoe's West Shore is a sensory treat, from the historic Tallac estates and dog-friendly Kiva Beach to a gentle stroll to Fallen Leaf Lake and the easy trail to Cascade Creek Falls near Emerald Bay.
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Lake Tahoe is brimming with water and activity options for dogs and their people. Kayak the North Shore, walk the expanding shoreline trail network, or visit the historic Tallac estate homes with Big Blue sparkling in the background.
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California's 18 Sierra Nevada SNO-PARKs offer plowed parking and access to groomed trails for skiing, snowshoeing and hiking with your dog. Daily or seasonal permits are available online, and your pup is welcome to romp on every trail.
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