Hiking, parks, gardens Blog
Hiking, Parks and Gardens – can you say happy dog? DogTrekker has you covered with some great stories about the best hikes, parks and gardens for you. Whether you are looking for a quiet stroll through the park or an adventurous hike to a remote location, we have something for everyone. From the great outdoors to urban adventures, we’ve got it all covered. So don’t forget your pup when planning your next adventure – DogTrekker is here to help! Happy trails!
DogTrekker® 15th anniversary
DogTrekker.com celebrates 15 years of helping California dog lovers travel together, supporting animal welfare groups and inspiring millions of readers since launching in June 2011. DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind --…
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Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe beaches: Your ultimate summer guide
From Carnelian Bay coffee shops to secluded coves on the Nevada side, here is your guide to the best dog-friendly beaches at Lake Tahoe. Both shores offer sandy spots where your pup can splash all summer long.
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Reserving a camp spot for Spot
Planning a camping trip with your dog? Here are key resources for reserving sites in California, plus tips for snagging last-minute spots at popular coastal and mountain campgrounds that often book out six months in advance.
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On the way to Yosemite: East entrance
The drive to Yosemite through the east entrance via Highway 120 and scenic Highway 395 is a destination in itself. Mono Lake, Lee Vining, and the off-leash trails around Saddlebag Lake offer stunning Sierra scenery your dog can actually enjoy.
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Paw-some events for the dog days of summer
Pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California this summer and fall. From Puptopia in Big Bear to Bark & Meow in Berkeley and winery fundraisers in Napa, these events bring dog lovers together while supporting rescue and animal welfare groups.
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Close encounters in Nevada County
Nevada County is packed with dog-friendly fun, from cozy inns and patio dining in historic Nevada City to the unique wooden flumes of the Independence Trail, where a switchback ramp leads to a scenic swimming hole your dog will love.
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California glamping your dog will dig
From coastal safari tents and redwood Airstreams to vineyard cabins and desert retreats, California's dog-friendly glamping scene offers the best of outdoor adventure without sacrificing creature comforts. Pack the treats and let the tail-wagging begin.
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On the road to Yosemite
The Yosemite Region spans four gateway counties, each with its own dog-friendly highlights. From Merced River hikes in Mariposa County to Gold Rush history in Tuolumne County, the journey can be as rewarding as the destination.
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Dogs love Tahoe
Tahoe Keys Resort is a top pick for dog-loving visitors to South Lake Tahoe. This private marina community offers cabins, condos, and homes with boat docks, easy lake access, and a staff that genuinely loves welcoming four-legged guests.
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Lake Tahoe’s South Shore and more
South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals offer space and flexibility for dog-friendly getaways. Tahoe Keys Resort provides private marina access, while properties ranging from cozy cabins to mansions sleeping 22 put you close to the lake and miles of hiking trails.
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Find a dog-friendly place in Placer County
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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At Tahoe: Plowed trails for tails
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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SNO-Park with your pup
Skip the parking headaches at Lake Tahoe by picking up a Sno-Park permit for just five dollars a day. These plowed winter lots provide access to sledding hills, cross-country ski trails, and snowshoe routes, and all are dog-friendly.
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Scenery rules at these dog-friendly campgrounds
From the Mendocino coast to Lake Tahoe, Big Sur, and the Eastern Sierra, California's most scenic dog-friendly campgrounds put you right in the action. These five picks offer beaches, waterfalls, redwoods, and mountain lakes for you and your pup.
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Pleasant surprises in Pleasant Hill
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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Strap on the snowshoes and get moving
Snowshoeing with your dog is easier than you think. Rent snowshoes from a local ski shop, pick a dog-friendly trail like Paige Meadows or Hope Valley, and use a hands-free skijoring leash to keep your poles working.
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Plowed dog walking trails? We’ll bark for that!
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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Summer’s last splash: Gotta lake it!
September is the sweet spot at Lake Tahoe, with fewer crowds and great deals on lodging. Swim and hike with your dog at beaches like Nevada Beach, Kiva Beach and Fallen Leaf Lake before summer fades away.
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Get a dog-friendly lift at Mammoth or Tahoe
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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Curl up off-season in a dog-friendly cabin
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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A Tahoe classic that rewards with a splash
The steep 4.4-mile hike up Shirley Canyon at Palisades Tahoe rewards you and your dog with cascading waterfalls, a mountain lake, and access to the High Camp complex at 8,200 feet. Ride the tram back down for free.
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Stroller-friendly hikes for wheels, feet and paws
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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Bark early to reserve these primo camping spots
The most popular coastal and lakefront campgrounds fill up fast, so mark your calendar six months out. Nevada Beach at Lake Tahoe and MacKerricher State Park on the Mendocino coast are two primo dog-friendly spots worth the early booking effort.
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Stay a night or three
Oakland's dog-friendly hotels range from the nautical-themed Waterfront Hotel on Jack London Square to the grand Claremont Club and Spa with bay views. Budget options like Homewood Suites and Motel 6 also welcome canine guests.
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