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!

Capital canine discoveries

Sacramento rewards DogTrekkers with shady Capitol Park strolls, dog-friendly patios in buzzy Midtown, and the Old Sacramento Waterfront along the river. Leash up and explore leafy neighborhood parks like McKinley, Curtis Park and the sprawling William Land Park.

Woof it up with these scenic Shasta Cascade excursions

The eight-county Shasta Cascade region is packed with dog-friendly scenic drives and natural wonders. Take the Everitt Memorial Highway up Mount Shasta, gawk at Burney Falls, cruise the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, or search for Bigfoot in Siskiyou County.

Go for a gusher with your dog

Redding is surrounded by stunning waterfalls worth a visit with your dog. Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir is a quick stop off I-5, while the three-tiered McCloud River Falls offer a scenic hike through top swimming hole country.

NorSled: Northern California’s husky and Nordic breed rescue

NorSled rescues huskies, malamutes, and other Nordic breeds that end up in shelters after overwhelming unprepared owners. Thanks to generous vets and donors, dogs like Canyon, a young husky hit by a truck, get life-saving surgery and loving forever homes.

Tail-waggin’ fun in Folsom and surrounding areas

Folsom pairs a charming Old Town with miles of dog-friendly trails along the American River Parkway and Folsom Lake. Add in taprooms, restaurants with patios, and the Johnny Cash Trail for a full weekend with your pup.

Wine with your pup

Santa Cruz County's fog-kissed climate produces excellent pinot noir and chardonnay, and many wineries welcome dogs. Follow DogTrekker's wine trail itinerary or visit Alfaro and Nicholson on the Corralitos Wine Trail for organic wines and relaxed patio tasting.

Put paws to paths in Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg offers miles of dog-friendly coastal trails. The Haul Road Recreation Trail crosses a converted railroad trestle with ocean views, while the Noyo Headlands segment of the California Coastal Trail adds five paved, ADA-accessible miles.

Dog on Glass Beach, Fort Bragg. — Adobe Images

Beaching it with your pup in Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg beaches give dogs plenty of sand time. Glass Beach dazzles with smooth, colorful sea glass, Noyo Beach offers off-leash fun where the river meets the Pacific, and Seaside Beach has roomy stretches for running free.

Hear the lonely whistle blow, watch the plants bloom

Two must-do activities in Fort Bragg with your dog: stroll through Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, known for rare rhododendrons on a bluff above the sea, and ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood forests on a four-hour, 40-mile round trip.

Room to roam in Mendocino

Head to Mendocino County, where dog-friendly trails wind along the coast and through shady inland forests. The Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail offers ocean views, while the Shakota Trail follows the wooded shores of Lake Mendocino.

First time paws-ing in Redding?

New to Redding? Start at the Shasta Cascade Welcome Center, then walk the Sundial Bridge over the Sacramento River. From Whiskeytown Falls to botanical gardens to local breweries, here are our top picks for first-time visitors with dogs.

Living local in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County keeps getting more dog-friendly. Dogs can now hike a 7-mile route at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, romp at Ozzi Memorial Dog Park near Capitola, and hang out at the Heart of Soquel Park.

Visit a close-in, dog-friendly campground

You do not need to drive hours for a great dog-friendly camping trip. Folsom Lake, Samuel P. Taylor, Point Mugu, and Campland on the Bay in San Diego all offer close-in outdoor fun with your pup.

Combat your dog’s boredom blues

A bored dog stuck indoors can become stressed and destructive. Keep your pup engaged with hide-a-treat puzzles, burrowing toys and scavenger hunts around the house. Practicing commands or teaching new tricks also provides great mental stimulation for both of you.

Go north, DogTrekkers, go north!

The Shasta-Cascade region offers spectacular waterfalls, dog-friendly cabin retreats near Shasta Lake, and fly-fishing at Hat Creek, all within striking distance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Winter is a perfect time to head north with your pup.

Mendocino: More than a day trip

Mendocino County offers dog-friendly lodging for every taste and budget, from the Stanford Inn and Little River Inn to the pet suites at Beachcomber Motel. With ocean views and direct beach access, your pup will feel at home.

Growling for Guerneville in Sonoma County

The Guerneville area in Sonoma County is ideal for a cozy cabin getaway with your dog. Creekside Inn, Cottages on River Road, and Fern Grove Cottages all welcome pups, with Russian River wine country and the coast just minutes away.

River cruisin’ with your canine

Catch A Canoe in Mendocino rents Canine Cruiser outrigger canoes with a raised, padded deck where dogs ride as you paddle the calm Big River estuary. Pair it with a stay at the nearby Stanford Inn by the Sea.

How to snag a dog-friendly camping rez

Snagging a dog-friendly campsite in California takes some strategy. From Reserve America to Recreation.gov to glamping options, here's where to search for reservations at public, private, and luxury campgrounds that welcome four-legged guests.

Vet Buzz: Dangers on the trail

Summer hikes with your dog are wonderful, but watch out for foxtails, heatstroke, bee stings, and rattlesnakes. Know the warning signs for each hazard and how to respond quickly so you can keep having fun on the trail.

Start at the dog-friendly border town of Gualala

Gualala, just over the Sonoma County line in Mendocino County, is a boho coastal town with dog-friendly lodgings, beaches, and restaurants. Go beachcombing at Gualala Point Regional Park or stay at the ocean-view Whale Watch Inn with your pup.

Little River: A canine paradise on the Mendocino Coast

Little River on the Mendocino Coast rolls out the red carpet for dogs. Stay at the historic Heritage House Resort or the five-generation Little River Inn, where pets get welcome treats, designated exercise areas, and even indoor dining privileges.

Dog-friendly brags in Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg on the Mendocino coast welcomes dogs with luxury motels featuring pet suites and leash-free dog parks. Explore the botanical gardens, run free at Noyo Beach, and hike the unusually dog-friendly trails at MacKerricher State Park.

Paws and pillows

Santa Cruz has dog-friendly hotels for every budget. The boutique Hotel Paradox is steps from downtown, Chaminade Resort offers on-site trails and dog menus, and Ocean Echo Inn puts you blocks from the beach. All welcome your four-legged travel companion.

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens near me..

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens

Hiking, parks, gardens Blog