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!

Moving water in Marin

Cataract Falls on Mount Tamalpais is the Bay Area's most popular waterfall hike, with nine cascades plunging through a mossy, fern-draped forest. The 2.6-mile out-and-back trail is strenuous but spectacular, especially after a good rain.

Pick a park and take a walk

Sacramento shady parks and trails are made for dog walking. Start at William Land Park or hike the 32-mile American River Parkway from Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake. Cross Tower Bridge for skyline views and food trucks.

Dog, you’ve earned a Yosemite vacation!

Fall brings crisp weather and light crowds to Mariposa County near Yosemite, making it ideal for a dog-friendly getaway. Choose from Airstream glamping at AutoCamp, vacation homes at The Redwoods, or the luxury of Tenaya Lodge.

dog in a vineyard in nature. A pet in the summer, a toller. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

Dog-friendly surprises in Solano County

Skip the high-priced Napa hotels and base yourself in Vacaville for half the cost. Nearby Suisun Valley offers dog-friendly wineries with outdoor tastings, while Lagoon Valley Park and Rockville Hills Regional Park give your pup room to stretch and explore.

Santa Barbara’s waterfall surprise

The 7 Falls Trail in Los Padres National Forest outside Santa Barbara is a 3.2-mile, dog-friendly hike best tackled after a rain. Expect rock-hopping, stream crossings, and about 800 feet of elevation gain to reach the cascading reward.

Don’t pass on Pasadena with your dog

Eaton Canyon Falls near Pasadena is a free, dog-friendly hike to a 40-foot waterfall at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The 3.5-mile round trip starts easy and flat before climbing a shaded canyon with wildflowers in early spring.

Briones Regional Park, Contra Costa County, California, USA.

Putting paws to paths around Concord

The East Bay Regional Parks District offers 125,000 acres of open space near Concord. Lime Ridge has 25 miles of dog-friendly trails, Briones features hilly canyons, and Mount Diablo rewards with one of the most expansive views in California.

Dog-friendly campground reservation resources

Booking a dog-friendly campsite in California takes some know-how. This roundup of reservation resources covers state parks, national forests, utility-company campgrounds and private sites, plus a must-have guidebook that details options across the entire state.

Knowing first aid can save your dog’s life

A vet tech outlines the three most important first-aid skills for dog owners: CPR, applying direct pressure to wounds, and staying calm. Taking a pet first-aid class could buy your dog critical time in an emergency.

Pant, paddle, pedal with your pup

Catch a Canoe at Stanford Inn offers a handcrafted redwood "canine cruiser" with a padded deck so your dog can ride in comfort along the Big River estuary. Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bicycles are also available for exploring Mendocino's coast.

Conquer Concord with your pup

Concord is an East Bay city with craft breweries, great hiking, and quick access to thousands of acres of open space. Stay at the dog-friendly Hilton and hit the trails at Briones or Lime Ridge.

A day (or more) in the redwoods

Santa Cruz County's towering coast redwoods are a must-see, and your leashed dog can join the fun. Ride a vintage steam train at Roaring Camp Railroad, or hike the trails at Henry Cowell and Forest of Nisene Marks.

Sniff out some new places

Santa Cruz County keeps getting more dog-friendly. Dogs can now hike a 7-mile route through redwoods at Big Basin, play at the new Ozzi's Memorial Dog Park near Capitola, and enjoy bocce at Heart of Soquel Park.

Catch a wave

Santa Cruz County's 29 miles of coastline include 15 dog-friendly beaches and a leash-free strand at Mitchell's Cove. Stroll West Cliff Drive for coastal views, hit the sand at Seabright Beach, or camp under the stars at Manresa State Beach.

It’s winter: Dogs and mushrooms alert

Wild mushrooms can be deadly for dogs, and the toxic Death Cap variety is especially dangerous because its fishy odor attracts curious pups. If your dog eats any wild mushroom, seek immediate veterinary care and bring a sample along.

Dogs chill while you dine at The Ravens

At Stanford Inn's acclaimed vegan restaurant The Ravens in Mendocino, dogs can lounge by your side at lobby tables while you enjoy plant-based dishes made with ingredients from the on-site organic garden. Takeout lunches for the trail are available too.

Best beds for heads and paws

Santa Cruz County has more than 50 pet-friendly lodgings for every budget. Splurge at Chaminade Resort with its pooch patio and mountaintop trails, or keep it simple at coastal inns, KOA cabins, and vacation rentals near the beach.

Watching the geese at the Sundial Bridge.

Raving about Redding

Redding in March means green hills, blossoming orchards, and comfortable temperatures for dog hiking. Walk the Sundial Bridge, follow the Sacramento River Trail toward Shasta Dam, or loop through the McConnell Arboretum.

Dog-friendly road trip north: The compass points toward Redding

Redding anchors a road trip through the Shasta Cascade, where 225 miles of trails radiate from town. Walk the Sundial Bridge, drive up Mount Shasta, swim at Lake Siskiyou, and hike to McCloud River waterfalls.

Bonnie plays with friend at Partner Park.

Play in a park with your pup

Sacramento's tree-lined parks offer shady relief for dogs even on the hottest days. From the 166-acre William Land Regional Park to Capitol Park's labeled gardens to the 32-mile American River Bike Trail, the City of Trees has room to roam.

Urban hikes to SF attractions

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.

All aboard (dogs, too)!

Several Northern California excursion railroads welcome dogs aboard for scenic rides through redwoods, Gold Country, and farmland. Options include Pumpkin Trains at the Western Railway Museum, the Skunk Train in Mendocino County, Roaring Camp in Santa Cruz, and Railtown 1897.

Moseying on Mendocino waterways

Catch A Canoe near Mendocino offers a specially designed canine cruiser with a stable center deck for dogs to sit or stand as you paddle the calm Big River estuary. The 8.3-mile waterway flows to the ocean through beautiful scenery.

An adorable brown Poodle dog lay on bed and enjoy his happiness with the owner who is working after wake up in the morning.

Paws up for these dog-friendly hotels

Sacramento's dog-friendly hotel scene stretches from downtown to the riverfront. The Kimpton Sawyer puts you steps from Old Sacramento, while the Westin offers riverfront trails and fire pits. Capitol Park and the American River Parkway are close by.

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens near me..

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens Blog