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!
Mobility assistance for your senior dog
A veterinarian shares practical tips for helping dogs with mobility challenges, from yoga-mat pathways on slick floors and toe grips for traction to supportive harnesses and ramp training for getting in and out of vehicles.
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Mendocino’s beachcomber motel offers pet suites and dog park
The Beachcomber Motel and Spa in Fort Bragg now offers custom Pet Suites with lowered dog showers, dog houses, and direct access to a private 3,500-square-foot leash-free dog park. Two suites even feature doggie doors leading to private kennels.
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The far, far north in Del Norte County
Near Klamath in Del Norte County, Trees of Mystery welcomes dogs to its old-growth redwood trails, gift store, and SkyTrail gondola ride through the treetops. The giant Paul Bunyan statues make this a must-stop attraction.
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Paws to the (nice, flat) path
Not every dog needs a mountain summit. Flat, paved paths like the Iron Horse Regional Trail in the East Bay and the Whoop De Dogs trail in Angwin offer easy walks with great scenery and plenty of sniffing opportunities.
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Folsom: Gateway to Gold Country
Folsom offers 56 miles of paved trails, an off-leash dog park and easy access to Gold Country wine tasting and Apple Hill farms. Dog-friendly hotels, sidewalk dining on Sutter Street and Folsom Lake make it an ideal weekend base.
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Do more along Highway 4
Highway 4 climbs through Calaveras and Alpine counties into a winter wonderland of cross-country ski trails, snow-covered forest roads and ancient redwoods at Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Leashed dogs are welcome to join the snowy fun.
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A Mammoth adventure!
Reader Stacy D. and her pup Ginger share their Mammoth Lakes adventure, including stops at Bodie State Park, Mono Lake, Convict Lake and Rock Creek Lake. They based their trip at the cozy, dog-friendly Edelweiss Lodge.
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A mammoth undertaking
Mammoth Lakes offers high-altitude adventure for dogs and their people. Ride the Panorama Gondola to 11,053 feet, hike through alpine basins with seven lakes, and catch a shuttle to Devil's Postpile, where leashed dogs are welcome on trails.
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Weatherproof wine tasting with your dog
Rain or shine, dozens of Napa Valley wineries welcome dogs right into their tasting rooms. From Calistoga to Carneros, you'll find treat jars on counters, water bowls at the ready, and even a dog suite at Frenchie Winery.
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All paws welcome on the Napa Valley Vine Trail
The Napa Valley Vine Trail offers a paved 12.5-mile path from Kennedy Park to Yountville, passing dog-friendly wineries like Laird Family Estate and Domaine Chandon. Combine a morning walk with wine tasting and a patio lunch in restaurant-rich Yountville.
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Kayla, Director of Barketing Emeritus
A tribute to Kayla, DogTrekker's "research Lab" and director of barketing, who traveled California paw-testing hotels, trails and beaches since the site launched in 2011. Known by name at hotel front desks statewide, she inspired everything DogTrekker became.
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Leash up for a fall trip to Mendocino
Mendocino County in fall means warm days, quiet trails and your pick of dog-friendly lodgings. From blufftop cottages and lighthouse vacation rentals to secluded Anderson Valley hideaways, the options are as varied as the scenery.
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Central coasting in winter
The California Central Coast is wonderfully moody in late winter, and dog-friendly cabin rentals make it easy to settle in. From vintage motels in Pacific Grove to cozy inns in Carmel, these hideouts put you steps from dramatic scenery.
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Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch
Gunner, a friendly pit mix who lost his home in the Napa earthquake, is ready for a new family. Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch in St. Helena pairs adoptions with community programs that help people and pets stay together.
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Every walk in Surf City is special
Beyond its famous Dog Beach, Huntington Beach offers great walks through 350-acre Central Park, a hidden gem along the Bolsa Chica wetlands on the Brightwater trail, and a quiet path along Edinger Avenue that local dogs love.
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Three must-see’s for you and your dog
Redding's three must-see attractions are all dog-friendly. Walk across the massive Shasta Dam, stroll the Sacramento River Rail Trail along turquoise Keswick Reservoir and cross the iconic Sundial Bridge into botanical gardens beyond.
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Dogs welcome at Yountville tasting rooms
Yountville in Napa Valley is a strollable, dog-friendly culinary destination with luxury lodging at North Block Hotel and Bardessono, plus dozens of tasting rooms and acclaimed restaurants with outdoor seating for you and your pup.
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Waggin’ trails 2017
Waggin' Trails Rescue pulls overlooked dogs from overcrowded rural California shelters, addresses their medical needs, and transports them to rescue groups where they're in high demand. Dogs like Carl have found happy homes as far away as Canada.
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Snouts out the window
The Shasta Cascade region boasts 12 scenic byways perfect for a fall road trip with your dog. From the Volcanic Legacy All-American Road to the Feather River route, the drives pair stunning views with dog-friendly lodges.
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Paws to the Redding paths
Redding, the self-proclaimed Trail Capital of California, offers more than 200 miles of hiking paths. From the Chamise Peak summit to the new Great Shasta Rail Trail, there is terrain for every level of dog and hiker.
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Cataract Falls: A California classic
The hike to Cataract Falls on Mount Tamalpais is a Marin County classic, with nine cascades tumbling along a wooded ravine. The 2.5-mile round trip is strenuous but hugely popular with dogs and their people, especially after winter rains.
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Woof it up at little Yosemite
Sunol Regional Wilderness in the East Bay comes alive in spring with wildflowers and rushing waterfalls in the Little Yosemite gorge. The Canyon View Trail offers a scenic 3-mile round trip along Alameda Creek.
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Liquid treasure in Gold Country
Hidden Falls Regional Park in Placer County rewards hikers with a thundering 50-foot waterfall on an easy 5.6-mile loop through wildflower-dotted hills. Nearby Cronan Ranch adds 12 miles of trails leading to the raging American River.
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Cruise control in Santa Cruz wine country
The Santa Cruz Mountains wine region welcomes dogs at tasting rooms tucked among redwoods and ocean views. Follow a dog-friendly wine trail from Davenport to Soquel to Aptos, with stops for picnics and vineyard strolls along the way.
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