A benefit of living in densely populated Bay Area and Central Valley cities is how little time it takes to leave them behind when the cool promise of the Sierra Nevada calls. Our suggestion: Snag a dog-friendly vacation rental in hip-and-happening Murphys, make a dinner reservation for a patio table at Alchemy and spend an afternoon wine-tasting with your pup along the main drag or at wineries just a short drive from downtown.
The next couple of days will be well spent exploring the Ebbett’s Pass National Scenic Byway tracing the Highway 4 corridor up, up, up to the 8,730-foot, two-lane, precarious route over the Sierra crest in Alpine County. You’ll find many places to enjoy an outdoor meal with your pup at your side, along with countless options for hiking and picnicking.