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!

Cricket at Kelso Dunes at Mojave National Preserve.

Dog-friendly wildflower hikes in the Mojave: 5 trails

Mojave National Preserve is the rare NPS unit that welcomes dogs on every trail. Here are five hikes where spring blooms are peaking right now.

ES GN Garrett Nakamura closeup bee poppy 20170430

3 dog-friendly wildflower hikes to catch before spring fades

California's wildflower season peaks from late March through mid-April, and several of the best spots welcome dogs. From Hite Cove near Yosemite to Gold Country river trails, these three hikes deliver rolling hills of poppies and lupines before the blooms…

Woman with Labrador on a scenic coastal walk in Pacific Grove, California.

Dog-friendly hikes on the San Francisco Peninsula

From coastal bluffs in Pacifica to redwood forests in Woodside, the San Francisco Peninsula is loaded with dog-friendly hiking. These trails offer ocean panoramas, shaded woodland paths and wide-open grasslands perfect for energetic pups on leash.

Your mountain moment is waiting in Big Bear Lake

The trails are thawing, the lake is shimmering and Big Bear Lake is officially open for adventure. Spring and summer usher in the best of alpine life—blooming meadows, refreshing breezes and endless miles of dog-friendly paths begging to be explored…

Forestville trail opens miles of dog-friendly adventure

The West County Regional Trail starts in Forestville and stretches 5.5 paved miles through vineyards and farms to Sebastopol, following an old railway corridor. Connect to the Joe Rodota Trail for 14 miles of continuous, dog-friendly walking across Sonoma County.

New year, new adventures in Greater Palm Springs

Greater Palm Springs pairs dog-friendly desert hikes with sun-soaked patios and pet-welcoming hotels. Start the morning on the Bump and Grind Trail, stroll midcentury neighborhoods in the afternoon, then wind down at a brewery where your dog is always welcome.

Image from What happens when you plan a California coast trip around your dog on DogTrekker

Planning a California coast trip around your dog

Planning a California coast trip around your dog isn't a compromise. From off-leash sand at Huntington Dog Beach to boutique inns in Mendocino, the Golden State's shoreline rewards travelers who bring their four-legged companions along for the ride.

Desert days & mountain stays

Glamping in California's mountains and deserts pairs epic scenery with dog-friendly comfort. From safari tents near Yosemite to Western-themed lodging at the gateway to Anza-Borrego, these retreats offer hiking, stargazing and wide-open spaces for your pup. From alpine meadows to…

Five things to know about Yosemite with your dog

Even seasoned visitors may not know how welcoming Yosemite and Mariposa County can be for dogs. From pet-friendly paved trails and Sierra National Forest hikes to lodging with special pet packages, here are five things every dog traveler should know.

Explore Yosemite Mariposa County with your furry friend

Mariposa County is home to Yosemite National Park and a wealth of pet-friendly lodging, dining and photo opportunities. Bring your dog to experience the valley's iconic views, Gold Rush-era towns, and trails in the surrounding Sierra National Forest.

The mountains are barking from Big Bear Lake

The snow is melting and spring is blooming in beautiful Big Bear Lake. Trails teem with life, the lake beckons paddlers, and patio dining season buzzes. Our guide to paddling, hiking, dining, lodging, and the Care For Big Bear stewardship…

Make tracks in majestic Mammoth

Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra is a top winter basecamp for dog lovers. Pet-friendly lodges, cross-country ski trails, snowshoe routes and cozy cabins make this mountain town ideal for snowy getaways with your pup.

Ruffin’ it in snowy Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe rolls out the red carpet for dogs in winter, with plowed walking trails along the lakeshore, cross-country ski centers that welcome pups, pet-friendly hotels and restaurants, and wide-open wilderness to explore on snowshoes or on foot.

Sacha enjoying the water in Folsom Lake.

Have a dog-gone good time at Folsom Lake

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area welcomes dogs on trails and in most of its waters, just 25 miles from Sacramento. With 75 miles of shoreline, hiking paths, picnic areas, and campgrounds, it's a top day-trip destination.

Splashy fun and trails to explore

Sacramento's tree-lined trails, fenced dog parks, and riverfront pathways make it a standout for outdoor fun with your pup. Explore the 32-mile American River Parkway or play at one of nearly a dozen off-leash parks.

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Exploring Greater Palm Springs with your dog

Greater Palm Springs offers dog-friendly desert adventures, from hiking Tahquitz Canyon to patio dining on El Paseo. Stay at pet-welcoming resorts like La Quinta, explore date gardens in Indio and soak up the laid-back desert vibe with your pup.

Seven best dog beaches on the Northern California coast

Northern California's coastline is packed with dog-friendly beaches worth visiting. From Baker Beach with its Golden Gate Bridge views to off-leash Carmel Beach and the sandy cliffs of Fort Funston, these spots are unforgettable.

Dog-friendly escapes in California’s desert.

Top 5 dog-friendly adventures in the California deserts

From Joshua Tree's Barker Dam Trail to Anza-Borrego's palm oasis hike and Lake Cahuilla's shoreline, the California deserts serve up five outstanding adventures for dogs and their humans. Leash up and explore. Hike the Barker Dam Trail, Joshua Tree National…