Things to do Blog

Over the past 10 years, DogTrekker’s team of veteran writers and editors have crafted more than 2,500 stories about all of the things you can do with your dog in California. Happy DogTrekking! Remember to travel lightly and always Leave Only Paw Prints®!

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.

Dog-friendly California destination, photo courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz

Dog-friendly road trip: Highway 1 and Santa Cruz

Highway 1 leads to Santa Cruz, where 15 dog-friendly beaches, the iconic West Cliff Drive stroll, and miles of coastal scenery await. From Seabright State Beach to Lighthouse Field, there is sand and surf for every DogTrekker.

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.

If everybody had a surf dog…

Huntington Beach's Dog Beach is a leash-free paradise where pups chase balls along the surf. Beyond the sand, dog-friendly dining, an off-leash park and four oceanfront resorts with special pet packages make Surf City a top canine destination.

Urban rambles in San Francisco

San Francisco may be the most dog-friendly big city anywhere. Crissy Field, Fort Funston and Bernal Heights Park offer off-leash romps with stunning views, while the Presidio, Golden Gate Park and waterfront trails provide on-leash adventures.

Tenaya Lodge with the kids – summer

Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite is loaded with kid-friendly fun, from poolside movies and underwater music to guided flashlight hikes through the Sierra National Forest. The whole family, dogs included, can refuel at the on-site Timberloft Pizzeria.

There are many ways to camp

Not a tent person? California glamping has you covered, from safari-style canvas tents at Inn Town Campground in Nevada City to Airstreams at AutoCamp near Yosemite, the Russian River, and Santa Barbara. Many welcome dogs.

Where to hike in Concord

Concord is a hiker's paradise with trails at Briones Regional Park, Lime Ridge Open Space, and city dog parks. You can also leash up for a self-guided historical walking tour starting at Todos Santos Plaza in the heart of town.

There’s always something dog-centric going on in Oakland

Oakland's Jack London Square is a dog-friendly hub of shops, restaurants, and events on the waterfront. Add in a packed calendar of dog-centric happenings, from Bark at the Park with the A's to adoption fairs and street festivals.

Monterey County parks

Beyond famous Carmel Beach, Monterey County offers miles of off-leash hiking at Garland Ranch Regional Park, scenic views at Jacks Peak, and 20-plus miles of trails at Toro County Park. Well-behaved dogs can roam free on many of these paths.

Activities for every family member at the Stanford Inn

The Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino is a playground for all ages, including four-legged family members. Paddle the Big River on a canine cruiser catamaran, bike coastal trails, or browse the lobby bookshop.

Wellness by the sea at the Stanford Inn

The Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino pairs wellness with dog-friendly hospitality. Swim in the saltwater pool, dine on organic vegan fare at Ravens Restaurant, and let your pup curl at your feet in the lobby.

Into the Tuolumne County high country

Tuolumne County stretches from Gold Rush towns like Sonora and Jamestown into the High Sierra, with dog-friendly hotels, patio restaurants and miles of national forest trails. Drive Highway 108 over Sonora Pass for a truly spectacular day trip.

One dog-friendly Mendocino drive: Highway 128

Highway 128 winds from Cloverdale through the Anderson Valley wine country to the Mendocino Coast. Along the way, dog-friendly wineries like Navarro, Toulouse, and Husch welcome pups with treats, water bowls, and shaded picnic spots.

For a personal touch, go for the b&b experience

Tuolumne County's bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals add a personal touch to your Gold Country getaway. From the AAA Four-Diamond McCaffrey House in Twain Harte to a mountaintop lodge near Yosemite, dogs are welcomed warmly at each.

Rush on up to 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.

Journey to Wawona (Madera County, south entrance)

The Highway 41 corridor from Oakhurst to Yosemite's south entrance is full of dog-friendly stops. Bass Lake resorts, the quirky town of Coarsegold, a steam train in Fish Camp and the luxury Tenaya Lodge all welcome four-legged travelers.

All wine, no whine at these Lake County wineries

Lake County is one of California's fastest-growing wine regions, with over 30 wineries welcoming dogs at their tasting rooms and picnic areas. Sample sauvignon blancs, petit sirahs and big reds while your pup relaxes beside you.

Take time to coast

Mendocino County's vast public lands offer everything from off-leash coastal walks at Stornetta Public Lands to beach romps at Noyo Beach in Fort Bragg. The historic Point Arena Lighthouse even has pet-friendly vacation rentals right on the grounds.

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Lots to do on dog-friendly Cannery Row

Monterey's Cannery Row is a dog-friendly destination packed with waterfront restaurants, wine tasting rooms, shops, and pet-welcoming hotels. Stroll the historic mile of coastline and soak in the seaside atmosphere with your pup.

Tails wag on Big Sur Coast

A drive along the Big Sur coast with your dog means breathtaking ocean views, purple-sand beaches, and walks through towering redwoods. Dog-friendly stops include Sand Dollar Beach, Pfeiffer Beach, and several state park campgrounds with cabins for overnight stays.

What’s cookin’ in Calaveras County

Calaveras County's hip town of Murphys draws wine lovers and their dogs to 25-plus tasting rooms along Main Street. Beyond the annual Grape Stomp, the stunning Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway offers dramatic High Sierra views and great hiking.

Big reds and good times in Amador County

Amador County is wine country heaven for dog owners, with more than 20 wineries welcoming four-legged visitors. Beyond the annual Barbera Festival, Sutter Creek and Jackson offer charming B&Bs, dog-friendly vacation rentals and Main Street tasting rooms to explore.

Make it a meal deal

Off the Grid food-truck events in San Francisco and Sacramento serve up live music, kid zones, and a huge variety of mobile-kitchen fare. Friday nights at Fort Mason and Sunday Presidio Picnics are popular with dog-owning families.

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