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!

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.

Calling all river dogs!

Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast rolls out the red carpet for dog lovers with its River Dog Package. Two nights in an ocean-view room, an outrigger canoe trip, dinner vouchers, and spa time are all included.

First stop: Start in Sacramento

Sacramento makes a great launching pad for a Sierra road trip. Explore the booming restaurant scene on R Street or in Midtown, hike the American River Parkway, then settle into a dog-friendly hotel before heading to the mountains.

Paw-friendly ‘must see’ Redding attractions

The Sundial Bridge in Redding is a stunning pedestrian span doubling as the world's largest sundial, with dog-friendly trails along the Sacramento River. Nearby, you can walk the length of massive Shasta Dam and connect to miles of trails.

Wag tails for Oakland!

Oakland pairs urban pleasures like Jack London Square dining and ale and wine trails with easy access to open-space preserves full of redwoods and ridgeline views. Dog-friendly hotels, breweries, and seasonal events make it a tail-wagging destination.

Riding through the redwoods

Reader Diana shares her family's trip to Roaring Camp Railroads in the Santa Cruz redwoods. The dogs loved riding on the caboose end, lunch at the food court was easy, and the nearby forest trails made for a full day.

Pick a Shasta Cascade byway

The Shasta Cascade region boasts a dozen nationally designated scenic byways, from a quick 3-mile drive to views of the "three Shastas" to the 500-mile Volcanic Legacy All American Road. Pet-friendly communities and hiking trails line every route.

Like art? Leash up and feast your eyes

Napa Valley's art scene pairs well with a dog walk. Stroll past sculptures on the Napa Art Walk, check out murals along the Vine Trail's Rail Arts District, then visit Castello di Amorosa or the photography gallery at Mumm Napa.

Golden Retriever Looking Out Of Car Window

Tail-waggin’ times outside the Park

Mariposa County beyond Yosemite's boundaries is packed with dog-friendly fun. Hike through Sierra and Stanislaus National Forests, stroll historic Gold Country towns like Mariposa and Coulterville, and find water bowls waiting outside charming local shops and eateries.

Napa Valley camping with your dog!

Prefer sleeping under the stars in Napa Valley? Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers tent and yurt camping between St. Helena and Calistoga, while Lake Berryessa's Putah Canyon Campground provides a more remote lakeside alternative for dog owners.

Rev up in Redding

Redding is your gateway to the Shasta Cascade region, starting with a stroll across the stunning Sundial Bridge and 19 miles of Sacramento River trails. Walk across Shasta Dam, enjoy dog-friendly patio dining, and stay at welcoming local hotels.

Off the beaten track in Shasta Cascade

The eight-county Shasta Cascade region serves up wild country with seven national forests, scenic byways, and views of 13,162-foot Mount Shasta. Dog-friendly hotels, trails, and small-town charm make it ideal for adventurous road trips with your pup.

Paws up for the Mount Diablo Region

Concord and Pleasant Hill sit at the base of Mount Diablo, where summit views stretch 200 miles on clear days. The 32-mile Iron Horse Trail, Todos Santos Plaza, craft breweries, and dog-friendly restaurants round out a great East Bay outing.

Make time for Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta's 14,179-foot peak dominates the landscape and draws visitors seeking natural beauty and spiritual energy. Drive up the Everitt Memorial Highway for jaw-dropping views, hike the Gray Butte Trail, and stay in walkable Mount Shasta City.

Shasta Lake: Dog-friendly houseboating haven

Shasta Lake is California's houseboating capital, and several marinas rent pet-friendly vessels ranging from basic fishing boats to triple-decker floating palaces. After a wet winter, the lake is full and reservations are going fast.

Old-fashioned fun at Shasta Cascade cabin resorts

The Shasta Cascade region is home to old-fashioned cabin resorts perfect for a fall getaway with your dog. From Trinity Alps Resort to Railroad Park Resort's vintage cabooses in Dunsmuir, these rustic retreats offer fishing, hiking, and charm.

Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, Sacramento

The Kimpton Sawyer in downtown Sacramento welcomes pets of all sizes at no extra charge, with loaner beds, bowls and a nightly wine reception. Dog-friendly patios, Old Sacramento's riverfront and a 32-mile bike trail are all just steps away.

Bucket-list cottages and cabin escapes

Dog-friendly cabins and cottages are the top lodging choice for DogTrekker readers. From waterfront cottages at Nick's Cove in Marin to Explorer Cabins near Yosemite to a luxury farm stay in Gold Country, here are three standout picks.

Sheraton Redding hotel at the Sundial Bridge

The Sheraton Redding sits right next to the landmark Sundial Bridge and pampers dogs with bowls, bedding, walking services and a weekly Yappy Hour. The Sacramento River Trail starts at the door and stretches 19 miles to Shasta Dam.

Noyo Harbor Inn, Fort Bragg

The Noyo Harbor Inn in Fort Bragg reopened after a six-year renovation, blending craftsman-style charm with modern comforts. Set on a bluff above the Noyo River, this 15-room B&B offers easy access to an off-leash beach and harbor views.

Sensory overload in Sonoma County

Sonoma County's coastline offers dozens of beaches, bluff-top trails and dog-friendly inns where you can fall asleep to the sound of the Pacific. From Sea Ranch to Bodega Bay, leashed dogs are welcome along miles of rugged, scenic shoreline.

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens near me..

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens Blog