Top dog-friendly beaches in California

Fort Funston Beach

California is a paradise for both humans and their furry friends. With its sunny beaches, scenic parks, and endless outdoor activities, this state is the perfect destination for a dog-friendly … Continued  Read more.

Effective strategies to manage your dog’s flea allergies

Have you ever wondered why your furry friend is constantly scratching and licking? Chances are, they may be suffering from flea allergies! But fear not, with the right prevention methods and treatments, you can conquer those pesky flea foes and give your pup the relief they deserve!  Read more.

Who domesticated whom?

We often hear about how humans domesticated dogs, right? But what if we told you that some researchers have found evidence suggesting that it might have been dogs who domesticated … Continued  Read more.

Treks, tours and top places to play in Placer County

Pups and people could spend weeks in Placer County and still find new activities.  Read more.

Was Calistoga really founded by a dog?

San Francisco’s Emperor Norton had his dogs Bummer and Lazarus. Calistoga’s Sam Brannan had Leonitus. Archive photo.

The charming Sam Brannan and Leonitus story In the early days of Calistoga, California, a man named Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland dog, Leonitus, embarked on a journey to shape a … Continued  Read more.

Superb spots for splashing

Maya’s splash zone behind Obexer’s. Photo by Dave Kendrick.

Clear, cool waters make Lake Tahoe famous. The destination is also famously friendly for dogs. Furry family members love Coon Street Dog Beach,   Read more.

Mindfully protecting the magic of Tahoe

Leave Only Paw Prints.

The North Lake Tahoe region shares DogTrekker’s commitment to stewardship, and that’s why we’re proud to spotlight some of the many dog-friendly  Read more.

North Lake Tahoe: Wildly beautiful and perfect for pups

In the four-season wonderland of North Lake Tahoe, autumn stands out for its unforgettable beauty. Changing leaves lend gorgeous color   Read more.

Image Posts

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Spa comforts for pets and their people

Tshaka at Noni’s Pet Grooming Boutique. Photo by StayPleasantHill.com.

All that hiking can sure make a dog dusty. Noni's Pet Grooming Boutique is ready to help. Tshaka loves the  Read more.

test tesrt  Read more.

Top destination stories of 2023

As this year comes to a close, our greatest joy comes from expressing gratitude for the DogTrekker family. Your engagement  Read more.

Pampering pet-friendly stays

When it comes to accommodations, you’ll find several Greater Palm Springs hotels that love your dogs as much as you  Read more.

On- and off-leash exploring

Photo by Greater Palm Springs.

Palm Springs’s picturesque dog parks are a great way to get those zoomies out before spending the afternoon poolside, but more  Read more.

Protect your pup when snowflakes fly

Winter adventure ready paw care.

Some dogs are naturally equipped for fresh powder, but others will benefit from a little preparation. For example, short-haired breeds  Read more.

Frosty winter fun for four-legged friends

Korra at Big Bear Lake. Photo by Bending Energy Photography/Visit Big Bear.

Winter snows started later than usual this year, but it only took a few storms to blanket the California landscape.  Read more.

Show your Care For Big Bear

The Big Bear community is passionate about protecting and preserving their natural resources for the benefit of today’s travelers and  Read more.

Fresh air fun beckons in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake from the Castle Rock Trail. Photo by Visit Big Bear.

Itching to hit the road for your next adventure? Big Bear Lake is barking! Nestled in the San Bernardino National  Read more.

Spring adventures with your furry friends at East Bay regional park district

Point Isabel Regional Shoreline. Photo by Shelly Lewis, EBRPD.

Discover over 1,250 miles of blooming trails in the San Francisco Bay Area As spring unfolds in the San Francisco Bay Area, the East Bay Regional Park District emerges as … Continued  Read more.

Your pup-friendly guide to California snow season 2023

Go California snow dogs!

Here in California, 2023 kicked off with a flurry of snowfall and storms. That means packed ski resorts and endless winter activities for families and their four-legged friends.  Read more.

Safe and snug in snow country

Plan ahead for snow trips.

Some dogs adore climbing snowdrifts and romping in fresh powder. If you're planning snow-season adventures with your favorite pup, don't forget to winterize!  Read more.

Redding really does winter right

Mt. Shasta from Lake Siskiyou.

Snow-capped peaks set the backdrop for glorious winter outings in UpState CA. Redding sits at the heart of this eight-county Shasta Cascade region that’s rich with forests, mountain ranges, parks and pure adventure.  Read more.

Concord Visitor Center First Annual Perro Costume Parade

Join us for the Concord Visitor Center First Annual Perro (Dog) Costume Contest and Parade from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM on Friday, October 28!   Read more.

Welcome to the all new DogTrekker.com!

For the past decade, millions of pet parents have trusted DogTrekker for California travel inspiration and pup culture updates. Technology is constantly changing, and we’ve been working like dogs to … Continued  Read more.

Dip into some desert sunshine

Photo by Cool Dog Ranch.

California’s desert regions are at their most compelling in winter, when cool weather and clear skies combine to energize people and pets alike. If you’re planning a trip, don’t think … Continued  Read more.

The best of Mendocino County

Photo by Visit Mendocino County.

In sun-dappled Mendocino County, summer is in full swing! You’ll find plenty of room to roam here, whether you venture to the coast for cool, clear air, or head inland for winery patios and exciting events.   Read more.

Get your dog-friendly kicks on Route 395 in the Eastern Sierra

Frankie & Storm hiking in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Photo by Stephanie Clemens.

Looking for a road trip that will have your dog wagging her tail the whole way? Free up four or more days for a leisurely junket on the federally designated Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway (Highway 395). It runs 150 miles between Topaz, just over the state line in Nevada, and Bishop in Southern California, skirting the Eastern flank of the Sierra Nevada, including our friends at Mammoth Lakes.  Read more.

Onward to Mammoth, Bishop and Lone Pine in the Eastern Sierra

Dogs love to play in the Eastern Sierra. Photo by Visit Mammoth.

It’s just 30-minute drive from Lee Vining to Mammoth Lakes, the major tourism hub in the Eastern Sierra. There’s giant ski resort here (dogs welcome on the Panoramic Gondola to the summit, but you’ll have to hike down) and tons of dog-friendly hotels, resorts and amenities, but the big attraction is the great outdoors.  Read more.

Moving south in the Eastern Sierra

Bailey & Maddie swimming in the Eastern Sierra. Photo by Genessa Hager.

Keep your eyes on the road, because the next major attraction is Mono Lake, a geological anomaly preserved as a natural reserve to protect its tufa towers, calcium carbonate knobs and spires formed by the interaction of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water. The lake has no outlet and is said to be twice as salty as the ocean.  Read more.

Choose Redding – chase adventure

Sundial Bridge. Photo by Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Redding anchors UpState CA, California’s under-the-radar adventure capital. Trails here lace through 7 national forests, 3 mountain ranges, a national park, a national monument, 2 national wilderness areas and 15 state parks.  Read more.

Holiday gifts that give all year long

The holidays are here and DogTrekker has a couple of cookbooks from our dog-passionate coastal lodging partners that are sure to give back for years to come.  Read more.

Splash Time! Summer is the season for water dogs

Summer is here; time to dip paws and toes in the water, if not go for an all-out swim (if your dog likes to fetch, now's the time to throw those balls into the lake or waves).  Read more.

Mountain majesty in the Eastern Sierra

Pet-friendly is the keyword in this neck of the Sierra, and if you and your pup are looking for liquid refreshment, there’s almost no end to the places the two of you can splash around (they don’t call it Mammoth Lakes for nothing). Make a base camp at dog-friendly lodging in or near town or in nearby June Lake. Travel the 16-mile June Lake Loop and check out four road-accessible lakes—June,  Read more.

Where to drink in Concord

Have you heard the one about the dog who walks into a bar? Bartender nods and says, “Hey dog, haven’t seen you in a while. How are things going?” Dog looks over and says, “Ruff.” In Concord, finding a dog-friendly place for a pint isn’t “ruff” at all. Download the Concord Perro Trail map for an at-a-glance guide to all the options. Start at the Hop   Read more.

Maiya’s stay in Ruthie’s Cabin at Nick’s Cove

I wanted to share a pic of our Lab Maiya at Ruthie's Cabin at Nick's Cove.  Read more.

Winter in Southern California

We’ve traveled all over California in the last 12 years with our pup Babu and now Gunda.  Read more.

Other historical points of interest

Stop by the Felton Covered Bridge Park and marvel at a California State Historical Landmark. Built in 1892, the Felton Covered Bridge is one of the few covered bridges remaining in the state. There is a nearby playground and a wide grassy expanse with a walking path perfect for pets. This location is less than half a mile from Roaring Camp Railroads, so it could be a great addi  Read more.

And SNO it goes

Free parking can be hard to find when you’re looking for a place to romp ‘n’ roll in the snow with your pup. And while California’s 19 Sno-Parks aren’t quite free, they’re a bargain at $5 for a daily permit or $25 for a season pass. The program, operated by California State Parks in conjunction with other agencies, provides access to plowed parking areas in the snow zone where you can   Read more.

East to the foothills and apples galore

While parts of El Dorado County were impacted by the Caldor Fire in August and September, the Apple Hill Growers region north of Placerville (about 45 minutes from Sacramento on Highway 50) was spared. It’s 50-odd member farms, wineries and other establishments (almost all of them dog-friendly) kicked off the 2021 season in early September with regional events, individual grower events,  Read more.

Four-paw Pet-friendly Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite

Anybody who has ever traveled with their canine companion knows that some accommodations are more dog-friendly than others. At Tenaya Lodge, you can fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy.   If you like adventuring with your dog and have always wanted to experience Yosemite National Park, then Tenaya Lodge is perfect.  Read more.

Local, accurate, engaging and committed

DogTrekker.com pioneered the Four-Paw Promise: We provide you, our readers, with localized, dog-friendly listings for 18 regions, 58 counties and over 700 towns and municipalities. We share accurate details that simplify the trip-planning process. We tell engaging stories about where, when and how to have tail-waggin’ fun with pups across California. We remain committed to supporting th  Read more.

Hitch a Ride With This Dog-Friendly River Outfitter

Nine miles. Four to six hours. Countless tail wags, big smiles. A float or paddle on a secluded section of the Russian River is a DogTrekker must-do for visitors to Sonoma County. With your water-crazy dog aboard in a custom-made SOAR, inflatable canoe from Russian River Adventures, you’ll explore a section of the river downstream from Healdsburg and linger at swimming holes and beaches alon  Read more.

Russian River adventures

Russian River Adventures offers dog-friendly canoe rentals on the most secluded section of the River, where dogs are welcome in the water.  Read more.

Tour Gold Rush Towns

Mariposa County's towns all make great walks for you and Fido. In Mariposa, the shop-lined streets, Art Park and Mariposa Creek Walk make for a nice way to explore the quaint mountain community and several restaurants boast outdoor seating areas that are pet-friendly. In the historic town of Coulterville, take your pup on a walk through time in a place that just might fool you into thinking it  Read more.

Stay and Play at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite

Winner of the 2015 Sunset Travel Awards for Best Resort for Pets, Tenaya Lodge knows how to take care of your dog! Their Fido Friendly Pet Package includes lodging and the one-time $100 pet fee for up to two dogs.  Read more.

So, What’s to Do With Your Dog in Concord?

The short answer: Lots and lots of things to get tails a-waggin!  Start off with a romp at Baldwin Dog Park or the Paw Patch dog park in 126-acre Newhall Community Park, then hit the trails at one of the East Bay Regional Park District preserves just minutes away.  Read more.

A Milo Update: We Need Your Help To Survive

From: Lynne Tingle, Founder and Director. Donate Here!   We are still up and running, rescuing and adopting!  Both our Sanctuary location and Milo Point Richmond are very busy (by appointment only) getting lots of animals fostered and adopted.  Volunteers are helping out a lot, and the Mendocino Sanctuary is enjoying a huge increase in adoptions and fostering (which usually ends u  Read more.

Seaside waves and walks with your dog

Big River State Beach in Mendocino.

Whether your drive all or just some of intoxicating Highway 1 hugging the Mendocino County coast, you’re sure to find many places to pull over and get some sand between your and Buster’s toes. Go slow, stop often and be sure to check out these highlights.  Read more.

Dog-friendly attractions on the Mendo Coast

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Photo by Jessica Bay.

The Mendocino Coast is rich in natural attractions, from beaches and redwood forests to vast networks of trails where you and your pup can hike to your hearts' content.  Read more.

Vacationing at Benton Hot Springs

In September 2021 we stayed at Benton Hot Springs in Mono County CA for our 25th wedding anniversary. Highlights include traveling through Yosemite, finding petroglyphs, hiking and just soaking up the high desert beauty.  Read more.

Shasta loves her tennis ball

This is our 15.5 yr old black lab Shasta. We live in Shingletown in Northern California. We are 9 miles from Lassen Volcanic Park. Redding and Whiskeytown are a 45 minute drive away.  Read more.

Mickey loved to DogTrek

Mickey, our 16.5 year old Siberian husky, crossed the rainbow bridge peacefully at home in July 2021. Mickey lived in Marin and Healdsburg and enjoyed so many of the DogTrekker recommendations.   Read more.

Goldendoodles Wilber & Walter

Wilbur and Walter are both goldendoodles and both therapy dogs. We moved to the beach so they could run and play with others. We’ve had a great and wonderful life so far. Wilbur crossed over the rainbow bridge in July.  Read more.

StayCations are my pup’s DogCations®

This California experience is in my backyard (haha). There is another pic attached of Huntley in Carmel. Backyard deck dogs left to right Peyton, Huntley, Sammie, Torrie and Finn. The 2nd picture is Huntley at Carmel beach  Read more.

Biscuit at Little River Inn

I lost my baby and best friend, Biscuit, on 11/27/21. He would have turned 15 this January. I have always enjoyed reading Dog Trekker and getting ideas of places to take Biscuit.  Read more.

Road-tripping with the pack

Our dogs Hudson (lab mix; male), Bunny (Red Carolina Dog, female), Domino (Cattle dog/Border/Boston mix, female) are our favorite road-tripper family! We make yearly trips to Mendocino where the hiking views cannot be beat and it's very dog-friendly.  Read more.

Hal’s California bucket list

Hal crossed the rainbow bridge on 12-9-2021. He was born 8-4-2006. He lived a great life in Northern California. He loved the dog park, dog events, going for a walk, hikes, the river, swimming, doing agility, and so much more.  Read more.

Noyo Harbor Inn Winter 2021-2022 Lodging Specials

Noyo Harbor Inn currently has two offers: Weekday special: 20% off all rooms, good Sunday – Thursday, excluding holidays, good through March 31, 2022. This rate can be accessed on this page. Book two nights, get one free, good Sunday – Thursday, excluding holidays, good through March 31, 2022. This package can be booked by calling direct to 707-961-8000.   Read more.

Website, Mobile App, Newsletter, Blogs and More, Oh My!

Over the past decade, we’ve enhanced and expanded our free DogTrekker resources. DogTrekker.com features destination stories, business listings and comprehensive trip-planning advice. The award-winning DogTrekker mobile app delivers an on-the-go version of that information, plus searchable “Nearby” dining and activity suggestions and “Explore” tabs sharing pup-fr  Read more.

How You Can Help Us Reach New Readers

We sincerely thank each of you for supporting DogTrekker. Whether you’ve read a newsletter, completed a reader survey, shared your travel stories, or answered a rescue/adoption request, we appreciate your involvement and feedback.   COVID-19 was tough on everyone. The pandemic presented unique challenges for travel businesses, and DogTrekker is determined to help destination partners re  Read more.

DogTrekker Turns 10 — That’s 70 in Dog Years!

Ten years ago, we first introduced DogTrekker.com to a few hundred friends and family. Our new website covered all things dog-friendly in Northern California, from travel news to rescue campaigns to care tips for four-legged friends. While it doesn’t seem like yesterday, it certainly doesn’t feel like a decade since that initial newsletter. Today, three million readers, 10,000 listing  Read more.

Railbike rides with Rover

Skunk Railbikes with dog carrier. Photo by Robert Jason Pinoli.

This summer, discover the Redwood Route in an exciting new way. The Skunk Train's two-seater railbikes and convenient dog trailers provide an open-air, hands-free pedaling experience with an electric-assist motor option. Each custom-built, four-wheeled vehicle follows existing tracks across historic trestle bridges, along rocky creeks and through pristine redwood forests.  Read more.

Redding Hotels Love Dogs!

Bringing the gang to Redding? Bunk down at a boutique pet-friendly hotel like the Sheraton Redding Hotel at Sundial Bridge. It’s an ideal location just steps from the iconic Sundial Bridge and Sacramento River Trail hugging the namesake river. In fair weather, dine at a patio table outside the on-site Mosaic Restaurant serving California-inspired cuisine with a wine country twist. Want   Read more.

Dog-friendly Sacramento: Two Rivers Run Through It

The American and Sacramento rivers converge at Discovery Park, just north of downtown Sacramento, and whichever way you trek along the 32-mile, multi-use Jedidiah Smith Memorial Trail (also known as the American River Bike Trail), you’ll enjoy lots of scenery and wildlife.  If you’re a first-timer to Sac, we suggest starting out your hike in the Old Sacramento historic district ju  Read more.

Outdoor Gilroy: More Than Just Garlic!

Gilroy, a small city near the coast in Santa Clara County, might be known as the garlic capital of the world, but it’s also filled with dog-friendly open spaces ideal for spring exploration. Mount Madonna County Park, encompassing 4,605 acres 10 miles west of Gilroy, rising to 1,900 feet in elevation and offering panoramic views of highly varied terrain. For a good workout, choose the Sprig   Read more.

Go Big at Big Bear

It’s a bit off the radar for Northern California residents, but if SoCal calls, consider soaking up a change of scenery at Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino county. Yes, there’s a major ski mountain there, but you and your pup will also find many dog-friendly diversions, including outdoor dining and trails where you can hike, cross-country ski, snowshoe and otherwise play in a winter wonderland.  Read more.

Conquer Concord With Your Dog

So where is Concord? To some, it’s one of those drive-by exits off the highway on the way from here to there. But to DogTrekkers who make time to linger, it’s a destination in itself, with miles of scenic breweries—and, yes, so many great Mexican food places that the city’s marketing gurus have crafted a new campaign dubbed ‘'The Taco Trail.”  Read more.

Linger Longer at a Patio Table With Your Pup

October on the coast can be chilly, so pack a jacket when choosing a dog-friendly patio for an al fresco meal. Toasty outdoor heaters add ambience, and most restaurants have them, so no worries there! For ocean-view dining, try the Crow's Nest, a beloved, 50-year-old classic on Santa Cruz Harbor. Read more...  Read more.

Redwoods, Railroads, Beaches and More

If you don't live on the coast, you've gotta wanna get to a beach with your surf-crazy pup now and then. Start at Mitchell's Cove, it's the No. 1 dog beach in Santa Cruz. It's the first strand up the coast from the lighthouse on West Cliff Drive, where you can walk for miles with your leashed dog. More . . . You'll have to amble down a long stairway to get to the sand, but   Read more.

Paws and Pillows

So… are you up for a splurge or on a pandemic budget? Santa Cruz lodgings on both ends of the spectrum are rigorously adhering to sanitation and safety protocols so both you and your four-legged buddy can rest assured. If boutique is your thing, the dog-friendly Hotel Paradox, with 170  "boldly designed" rooms is a solid choice. It's a short walk to downtown Santa Cr  Read more.

Find A Dog-Friendly Place In Placer County

Placer County is large and diverse, stretching from just north of Sacramento County all the way to Tahoe’s north shore. In between are hundreds of square miles of national forest lands, including dog-friendly Auburn State Recreation Area, stretching 20 miles along two forks of the American River. Less well known but an excellent destination for hikers with dogs is Cronan Ranch Regional Trail  Read more.

Folsom: Gateway to Gold Country

Folsom isn’t only a convenient destination for Northern California visitors, it’s also diverse, offering many options for “socially distanced” outdoor recreation. Start by stepping out on a segment of the 32-mile American River Bike Trail, which runs from downtown Sacramento to downtown Folsom. The multi-use path hugs the river of the same name, offering endless opportuniti  Read more.

Tuolumne County Invites Visitors to ‘Wander Freely’

Tuolumne County, in the heart of Gold Country, is open and courting visitors (DogTrekkers included!) this summer. Its “Wander Freely” campaign encourages responsible travel and offers lots of tips on staying healthy while enjoying the region’s spectacular scenery. For many visitors of course, the destination goal is Yosemite National Park, which is opening in phases this summer.  Read more.

At BADRAP, it’s OK to Ask. It’s Important to Give

From: Donna Reynolds, Co-Founder, Executive Director. Donate Here! Some weeks ago, animal shelters like BADRAP were understandably concerned that Covid19 would spark a massive influx of surrendered pets. Thankfully that scenario hasn't played out in the Bay Area. Food insecurity and financial hardship, though, are the realities that have crept up and bring a new worry about surrendered pets.  Read more.

East Bay SPCA Carries On

While some of the East Bay SPCA’s programs and services have been suspended due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have not stopped serving our community. Animal Care Many of our animals are living in foster homes, where all supplies are provided by the East Bay SPCA. We are accepting stray animals including neonatal kittens, owner surrenders from families who have experie  Read more.

SSPCA’s Doggy Dash Moves to June 27th

The Sacramento SPCA will host the 27th Annual Doggy Dash on Saturday, June 27, 2020 from 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Doggy Dash is California’s largest 2k/5k dog walk and festival to benefit shelter animals. An estimated 5,000 animal lovers gather in the community for this special event each year, with and without their canine companions - to raise funds for animals at the Sa  Read more.

Every dog has its day in Fort Bragg

Photo by Beachcomber Motel.

The Beachcomber group of properties are a sure bet for visitors traveling to Fort Bragg with furry companions: The group includes three dog-friendly hotels.  Read more.

Beaching it with your pup in Fort Bragg

Dog on Glass Beach, Fort Bragg.

It was once a dump where all kinds of glass object were trashed. After decades of rolling in the surf, Glass Beach, at the southern reach of MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg, is roiling in pieces of smooth, colorful glass that are a delight to behold.  Read more.

Good Times in Gridley

  Read more.

Naturalist John Muir’s Dog-friendly Legacy

John Muir might be most famous for his conservation efforts in the Yosemite region, but he wrote and raised a family in the East Bay community near Concord and cherished the rolling landscapes. The John Muir Land Trust was created 30 years ago to protect a growing collage of ranches, farms, parks and shorelines that total more than 2,500 open-space acres in Contra Costa County, all open to the pub  Read more.

For the Love of Dogs

Dogs of all breeds and sizes can pack in plenty of playtime in Greater Palm Springs. Festivities, particularly during winter and spring, include many special events where you and your pup can stroll companionably among friendly crowds, taking in the sights and flavors of this sunny, idyllic vacation spot. If you and your dog happen to be in town the first Sunday of the month, November through Apri  Read more.

Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe

Bodie here is a goofball. In a good way. He's also really, really into tennis balls.  Read more.

The Fido Friendly Yosemite Vacation

Leave the city behind, pack up your four-legged best friend, and head to Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite, the only full-service dog-friendly resort near Yosemite. Tenaya Lodge is the ideal basecamp for Yosemite adventure and features a multitude of room options, including the new, two-bedroom, Explorer Cabins (complete with bunk bed options for families).  Read more.

Lily’s Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary

Dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing senior dogs, Lily’s Legacy has founded a campaign—Saving Senior Dogs Week— to raise public awareness of homeless senior dogs, the joy of adopting them, and to support of senior dog-rescue organizations around the state.  Read more.

Put Paws on Pillows in San Diego

So…your pup is coming with you to San Diego and you need a pet-friendly place to stay, preferably one with quick exits to the outdoors for you-know-what. There’s no end of choices in San Diego, whether you prefer to stay in the historic Gaslamp Quarter or somewhere closer to the beach.  Read more.

Just Beach It, Beach It, Beach It

Sun, sand and surf are what drew you to bring your pup to San Diego in the first place, right? Well, you certainly hit bingo. No pilgrimage-con-canine would be complete without a romp on Ocean Beach, aka Dog Beach, San Diego’s only 24-hour sandy strand where dogs are permitted to tear joyously around off-leash.  Read more.

Hop On Over to a Dog-Friendly Craft Brewery

In the past few years, brewpubs have become all the rage, with more than 1,000 of them springing up across the state. So many are in San Diego that the city proudly calls itself the “Craft Beer Capital of America.” The main attraction is beer, of course, but another plus is that almost all of them are dog-friendly.  Read more.

Fun in Hell’s Kitchen

DogTrekker was so happy to receive an email from Bruce about his trip with Eva to Hell's Kitchen.  Read more.

Dog-friendly brags in Fort Bragg

Dog on Glass Beach, Fort Bragg.

Fort Bragg, the largest dog-friendly community on the Mendo coast has much to recommend, including the Beachcomber group of properties offering variety and value close to the sea. The Beachcomber Motel itself is a luxury motel that offers panoramic views, fire pits and “pet suites” (rooms that open onto a deck with dog house and pet shower) with direct access to the property’s leash-free dog  Read more.

See the Light (Or Spend A Dog-Friendly Night) at Point Arena

Just 15 miles north of Gualala, don’t miss the 115-foot-high Point Arena Lighthouse, perched on a narrow peninsula and dating to 1879 and rebuilt after tumbling in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. For a unique overnight experience, book accommodations in one of four lighthouse-keeper cottages converted into dog-friendly vacation rentals (be sure to reserve far in advance).  Read more.

Little River, Big Tail-Waggin’ Attractions

Drive north from Point Arena 31 winding miles and you come to a little town that packs a big dog-friendly punch. Book a room at the Heritage House Resort (you’ll recognize it from the 1978 movie “Same Time, Next Year”), and you won’t want to budge from the decks and verandas overlooking the sea. Another great choice is Little River Inn Resort & Spa, a family-owned, Vict  Read more.

Start at the Dog-Friendly Border Town of Gualala

Gualala is a border town, but not in the usual sense of the word. Just over the Sonoma County line in Mendocino County, it’s a boho kind of place with a selection of dog-friendly lodgings and restaurants as well as quick access to shore-side refuges where you can go beachcombing with your pup.  Read more.

Get Your Tail(s) to Little River Inn

What’s not to like about the gorgeous Mendocino coast? Absolutely nothing, of course! And with a River Dog package at the Little River Inn Resort & Spa, perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, you’ll enjoy a two-night stay in a pet-friendly guest room, a three-hour river excursion in an ultra-stable outrigger canoe, a goodie bag with dog treats and info on where to hike and boa  Read more.

Vet Buzz: Dangers on the Trail

By Dr. Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital Summer hiking is here, and you want to take Fido out to romp in the hills! Here are a few things to keep in mind to continue your fun in the sun.  Read more.

Redding: Trail Capital of California

Once you have pitched your tent, pulled in with your RV or are tucked away in your glamping set-up, it’s time to hit the trails with your pup. If you are lucky enough to be within 10 miles of Redding, you have over 100 miles of dog-friendly trails where you and your dog can see wildlife, wildflowers, waterfalls and spectacular scenery.  Read more.

Things to Do in Santa Cruz County

When it comes to things to do with your dog in Santa Cruz County, there’s the obvious (beaches, wineries), and the not-so-obvious—like Byrne-Milliron Forest, a 400-acre Land Trust of Santa Cruz County property managed as a working forest and laced with dog-friendly trails (off-leash hiking for dogs with reliable recall is allowed).  Read more.

Cruz The California Coast

Follow the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) along the Santa Cruz County coastline, and you’ll be tempted by 29 miles of beaches (15 of them dog-friendly) along the way. Only one, Mitchell’s Cove, is legally leash-free, and then only before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. But no worries: there are plenty of other strands to explore provided you keep a tether stretched between you.  Read more.

Calaveras County: Sip and Swirl Along Highway 4

DogTrekker’s Calaveras County Wine Trail sports 24 listings and growing, with many wineries and tasting rooms situated in or near the hip and happening town of Murphys on Highway 4. Stroll down Main Street, and you’ll be amazed to find more than 20 opportunities to wine-taste with your pup by your side!  Read more.

Tuolumne County: Heart of Gold Country

We can’t begin to count the ways you and your pup will be enchanted and entertained in the heart of Gold Country, but we can start you off on the Tuolumne County Wine and Craft Beer Trail, where we highlight five dog-friendly establishments, one of which is actually a lush, 160-acre preserve producing hard- and spirits.  Read more.

Sacramento: A Beer-Lover’s Magnet

Sacramento might be situated smack in the middle of the Central Valley, but its location on the Sacramento and American rivers made it a central player in the 1849 Gold Rush, when a waterfront boomtown (now preserved as Old Sacramento) sported saloons aplenty catering to thirsty prospectors headed to and from the Mother Lode.  Read more.

More Than Fool’s Gold in Folsom

Just a blink up Highway 50 from Rancho Cordova, Folsom is a Gold Country gateway rich in pioneer history. It boasts tons of recreational opportunities, a captivating Old Town district with vibrant dining options, and four beer trail havens for DogTrekking brew lovers craving a taste of local ale.  Read more.

Brews and More in Rancho Cordova

Rancho Cordova, a suburban community on Highway 50 about 15 miles east of downtown Sacramento, is a great jumping-off place for forays into the Sierra foothills, but it’s also a beer-lover’s destination in itself with six dog-friendly craft breweries or taprooms and a tap-happy restaurant (Brookfield’s) with dog-friendly patio seating.  Read more.

Fort Fun!

DogTrekker.com reader Karen N. sent in a few photos of her dogs at Fort Funston, San Francisco's off-leash dog haven. Karen writes, "In my opinion, the most beautiful place in San Francisco. Since the area is all off leash, your dog should be very well socialized and have excellent recall."  Read more.

Get Wet at a Monterey County Splash Spot

For many visitors with dogs, the primary reason to visit the Monterey Peninsula is to share your dog’s joy in running free on Carmel City Beach, a powdery, mile-long strand that is perhaps the best known leash-free beach in the country. It’s a short drive from Cannery Row and walking distance from stylish Carmel-by-the-Sea with its wealth of dog-friendly lodging and places to eat.  Read more.

Soak Up Some Coastal Scenery in Monterey County

The most abiding joy to be had on the Monterey Peninsula is simply enjoying the rugged coastal scenery, and there’s no better way to soak it up than on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This paved, multi-use path stretches 18 miles from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south. To get started, we suggest strolling the segment between Cannery Row and Asilomar State Beac  Read more.

Shasta Lake: Dog-friendly Houseboating Haven

Redding isn’t just California’s Trail Capital; nearby Shasta Lake is the state’s Houseboating Capital, as well. In the wake of a wet winter, Shasta will be filled to capacity this summer and houseboating business will be brisk, so if you’ve ever considered a houseboat vacation that includes your dog, now’s the time to make reservations. Several Shasta Lake marina  Read more.

Off the Beaten Track in Shasta Cascade

The farther north, east or west you go from Redding, the sparser the population and the wilder the country. With seven national forests, three mountain ranges, a national park, a national monument, two national wilderness areas, 15 state parks and countless lakes, the eight-county Shasta Cascade region serves up freedom and adventure for you and your dog at every turn. Dog-friendly hotels and reso  Read more.

Paw-Friendly ‘Must See’ Redding Attractions

Whatever your plans, you’ll want to start with a lingering visit to the Sundial Bridge, a pedestrian span over the Sacramento River designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Its 214-foot, angled iron pylon serves as a gnomon, making it the world’s largest sundial. The bridge is a thing of grace and beauty that’s been pulling cars off the highway since it opened i  Read more.

Love GPS? There’s an app for that!

If your vision of a California desert vacation includes blue sky, purple mountains, nodding palm trees and lots of dog-friendly things to do and places to see, there is no place better than Greater Palm Springs! And whether you are planning your trip or have paws on the ground, the free DogTrekker mobile app is a great resource to explore the region. With the app’s “Explore” mod  Read more.

A Day in the Snow

DogTrekker reader Madeleine Davis sent this picture to us of her 12-year-old lab Shasta enjoying a snow day.  Read more.

Strap on the Snowshoes and Get Moving

If you haven’t tried snowshoeing, what are you waiting for? You don’t have to invest in your own equipment if you’re new to the activity. Snowshoes are available for rent from most ski shops; all you need are some warm snow boots. On designated trails with packed snow and flat terrain, walking in snowshoes is almost as easy as walking in street shoes.  Read more.

Why We Are Thankful!

Our team feels blessed to have spent another year following our mission of leaving no dog behind, whether in a shelter or when the family hits the road on vacation. Over a half-million Californians used our channels—the DogTrekker website, newsletter, Paw Press and Rescue/Adoption Blogs and mobile app—this year to plan travel or search for their next forever dog or dogs.   Photo   Read more.

Parade of Lights, Sutter Creek

Parade of Lights, Sutter Creek – Dec. 15 This historic Gold Rush town comes alive in twinkling lights adorning everything from dogs and kids to cars, school buses, marching bands and more.  Read more.

Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade, San Diego

Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade, San Diego – Dec. 16 This annual parade sees pet owners and their furry, feathered and scaled companions don costumes for a jolly promenade and holiday pet market.  Read more.

Second Annual Waggin’ Trails, Huntington Beach

Second Annual Waggin’ Trails, Huntington Beach – Dec. 8 Waggin’ Trails Rescue Foundation, which works with overwhelmed shelters to transport companion animals to foster care as it works to find permanent homes, sponsors its second annual Santa Paws event.  Read more.

Jingle Bell Pup Crawl, Sacramento

Jingle Bell Pup Crawl, Sacramento – Dec. 8 Few animal shelter and city holiday fundraising events promise to be as much fun as the Sacramento SPCA’s second annual Jingle Bell Pup Crawl from noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 8. It all starts with a check-in at Midtown’s new Truitt Bark Park (Sammy, link) and continues to six craft breweries with activity stations at each st  Read more.

Family Rail Odyssey, Santa Cruz

Family Rail Odyssey, Santa Cruz – Dec. 1-2 & 8-9 Put your dog on a leash and your kids in their festive best for Dec. 1-2 or 8-9 ride on Roaring Camp Railroad’s daytime steam train to Bear Mountain.  Read more.

Hometown Holiday, Pleasanton

Hometown Holiday, Pleasanton – Dec. 1 Downtown Pleasanton is always dog-friendly, so bring your pet along for this Hometown Holiday Celebration.  Read more.

Festival of Lights Parade, Auburn

Festival of Lights Parade, Auburn – Dec.1 This year’s event, themed “Night of Enchantment,” will feature floats, animals, musicians and more!  Read more.

Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony, Oakland

Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony, Oakland – Nov. 30 Annual tree-lighting ceremony brings holiday magic to Oakland’s dog-friendly waterfront with decorations, live music, holiday pop-up shops, Santa and more.  Read more.

Yolo County SPCA Purrfect Howliday Pawty, Sacramento

Yolo County SPCA Purrfect Howliday Pawty, Sacramento – Nov. 30 Dinner, live music, a silent auction and presentations about programs and community partnership are on the menu for the Yolo SPCA’s evening of holiday-themed fun with proceeds going to animals in need. Shop for holiday goodies, help the animals and have a pawsitively good time. This event is held at&nbs  Read more.

Theatre of Lights, Sacramento

Theatre of Lights, Sacramento - Weekends through Dec. 24 Theatre of Lights holiday program in the Old Sacramento Waterfront District is dog-friendly and free.  Read more.

Macy’s Holiday Windows, San Francisco

Macy’s Holiday Windows, San Francisco - Now through Jan. 1 The flagship Macy’s store on Union Square is a must-do stop during the holidays. Its Holiday Windows displays, featuring adoptable animals from the San Francisco SPCA, is a 32-year tradition.  Read more.

Illuminate SF Festival of Light, San Francisco

Illuminate SF Festival of Light, San Francisco - Now through New Year’s Day Experience San Francisco’s extraordinary light-art scene with 37 installations by 34 artists spread through 17 neighborhoods. Check online for exhibits, events and tours.  Read more.

Riley and the Redwoods

"This is our dog Riley in the CA redwoods near Myers Flat.  Read more.

The Benefits of Dog Ownership

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Play and Rest Your Head in Concord

Photo by Visit Concord.

When you Visit Concord, you’ll enjoy a warm, hospitable welcome from any of their dog-friendly hotels. From executive suites to economical accommodations, Concord offers a lodging option for you and your pup.  Read more.

Pleasant Hill’s 4-legged Resident Named Phill

Pleasant Hill has its own four-legged resident named Phill (short for Pleasant Hilliard Goldendale the First). He is your guide to the best things to do, see and eat around town: Phill's favorite things to do Phill's favorite eats Phill's favorite events Phill's special offers   Read more.

Happy Trails from Nala and Ginger

"The trails around Idyllwild are great for dogs and their humans, too! Nala and Ginger enjoyed the Ernie Maxwell Trail and a small trail from the Indian Springs Lookout.  Read more.

Take A Stroll Through History

Don’t you love it when you stumble upon something great that you never knew about before? That’s the feeling that takes over upon entering Lagoon Valley/Peña Adobe Regional Park, a 470-acre preserve just off Interstate 80 between Vacaville and Fairfield.  Read more.

Call it a Night in the Tri-Valley

Sure, you could commute from the Bay Area or Sacramento, but why not make a weekend of it? After a day of hiking or touring the wine or craft-beer trails, it’s nice to stay for dinner, pull into a nearby hotel and spend the night. By our count, more than two dozen Tri-Valley hotels welcome four-legged visitors (use the handy dog-friendly check box at visittrivalley.com to filter hotels).  Read more.

Urban Delights Along the Iron Horse Trail

Photo by @gio.n.theo.

The Tri-Valley is nothing if not progressive when it comes to providing DogTrekkers and other residents with outdoor opportunities, and the Iron Horse Regional Trail is a great example. This 32-mile, multi-use path, paved all the way, runs between Concord and the Pleasanton/Dublin BART station along the abandoned Southern Pacific Railway right-of-way. Shared by cyclists, equestrians and pedes  Read more.

Not All Tri-Valley Trails Are Made for Walking

Think of a trail, and you probably envision a path for hiking or biking, right? In the Tri-Valley, however, not all trails are made for ambulating from place to place. The region also boasts a Beer Trail, a Wine Trail and an Ice Cream Trail. Each is a collection of establishments, many of them dog-friendly, where you can indulge in your passion for brew, vino or tasty treats.  Read more.

In the Tri-Valley, Wide Open Space for You and Your Dog

The story behind why the Tri-Valley region has more open space than urban sprawl is long and complex, but there’s no arguing with the results! All four towns in the region are situated in close proximity to parcels within the vast East Bay Regional Park system, where dogs can hike with their people off-leash in many open-space and undeveloped areas, provided they are under strict voice   Read more.

Road Trip! Explore a Scenic Byway

Fall is a great time for a scenic drive, and California’s National Scenic Byways and Scenic Highways provide guaranteed enjoyment for the eyes plus limitless opportunities for hiking with your dog in gorgeous country. Study maps and guides before you go—and, as wildfire season continues, be sure to check out air quality predictions, as well. Here are three scenic routes that are sure t  Read more.

Curl Up Off-Season in a Dog-Friendly Cabin

Cabin resorts—some rustic, some luxurious—have been hosting High Sierra vacationers for a century, and many are so popular in summer they can only be booked in blocks of a week or more. Come September, however, reservations open up, minimum-stay requirements are reduced and opportunity beckons. We’re partial to those in the uncrowded Lakes Basin Recreation Area straddling Sierra   Read more.

Fuzzy Connect

Fuzzy Pet Health, the Bay Area-based vet care company, has launched Fuzzy Connect, a mobile app that gives users live access to veterinarians anywhere and anytime. Users can chat with licensed vets, as well as send photos and videos, to get medical advice, training tips, answers to new pet questions or other concerns that normally require a vet visit. The app, available on iPhone and Android  Read more.

A Dog Lover’s Packing List

What’s better than traveling? Traveling with your dog. Sure, it can be overwhelming and there can be some associated hiccups, but here’s the packing list you need to make sure you’re all ready to go: - The Fuzzy Connect app. It’s like having a vet in your pocket. DogTrekkers get six months for free! - The DogTrekker mobile travel app - Health certificates and vaccination   Read more.

Calaveras County

Calaveras County became known in 1800s for its rich gold deposits—and for a certain jumping frog memorialized in a short story by Mark Twain. Today, it’s a destination for Gold Rush tourists, campers, skiers, hikers and adventure seekers, many of whom wouldn’t think of heading into “them ‘thar hills” without their dogs. Angel’s Camp on Highway 49 and Murph  Read more.

Placer County

Hundreds of square miles of national forests and other public lands make Placer County a DogTrekker hotspot. Highway 49 runs south from Auburn, the county seat, to access 35,000-acre Auburn State Recreation Area hugging two forks of the American River. Hidden Falls Regional Park is delightful in fall even if the falls aren’t running, while at Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, you can hike t  Read more.

El Dorado County

Named for the mythical city of gold, El Dorado County epitomizes California Gold Country. Its county seat, Placerville, is named for the alluvial deposits in the American River where many a miner struck it rich. The town of Placerville also makes for an interesting visit with its dog-welcoming restaurants, shops and a historic and dog-friendly hotel, Cary House, right in the middle of the action.   Read more.

Sierra County

Historic Highway 49 in the north starts in the Sierra County town of Vinton and winds south through a mountainous region where the rivers still run free. Even during the summer high season, this county of fewer than 4,000 souls is off the beaten track for most visitors. In fall, it can feel like your own private realm. Set up basecamp in Downieville, a Gold-Rush town on the Yuba River, and prepare  Read more.

Cool Your Jets (and Your Pets) in Sacramento

Sacramento is hot, hot, hot—and we’re not talking summer weather. The restaurant and craft brewery scene here has exploded of late, and thanks to a (usually) mild climate, outdoor dining is ubiquitous, and almost every restaurant and brewery patio in town is dog-friendly.  Read more.

Lots New to See and Do in Rancho Cordova

Highway 50 buzzes right through Rancho Cordova between Sacramento and Folsom, so unless you pull off to explore, you won’t know what you’re missing. Start, perhaps with an overnight stay at a dog-friendly hotel and get a complimentary Sierra Foothills Wine Tasting Passport good for two people at eight regional wineries that welcome dogs.  Read more.

Tri-Valley: Trails to Treats

The Bay Area’s Tri-Valley region, just 45 minutes east of San Francisco, is a sunny paradise for hiking dogs and their people, rewarding both with lots of wide open spaces and scenic vistas. The four cities that make up the Tri-Valley region, Pleasanton, Danville, Dublin and Livermore, each have something special to offer DogTrekkers.  Read more.

A Big Bark For Sebastopol’s Barlow

It’s easy, it’s pretty and hiking its 1.8-mile length will burn off just enough calories to allow you to splurge on a meal at The Barlow, a complex housing more than three dozen food and drink producers and artist studios. The Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail, which opened in 2012, stretches from Highway 12 to Occidental Road just outside Sebastopol, skirting the Laguna de Santa Rosa, Sonoma  Read more.

Vineyard RV Park Also Has Tent Cabins!

Tired of pulling your RV out of storage but still want to “get away”? Vineyard RV Park offers a full range of tent cabins that you can stay in (sorry no dogs in the cabins). Both the large and small cabins feature a dining table, towels and linens at no charge, complimentary WiFi, propane BBQ and two Adirondack chairs for relaxing outside of the cabin.  For more information, call  Read more.

Furlong Gulch, Sonoma County

Furlong Gulch, Sonoma County. Furlong Gulch is one of several beaches you’ll come to as you travel along the 17 miles of beaches extending from the Vista Trail 4 miles north of Jenner all the way to Bodega Head. More than a dozen access points will take you to named strands in addition to Furlong (including Carmet Beach, Portuguese Beach and Marshall Gulch) separated by bluffs  Read more.

Huntington Beach Dog Beach, Orange County

• Huntington Beach Dog Beach, Orange County. This salty-dog paradise encompasses a 1.5-mile section of a 3.5-mile-long beach that seems plucked straight out of a surfer movie (no wonder Huntington Beach is nicknamed Surf City USA). You’ll find yourself humming a Beach Boys tune as you and your pup immerse yourselves in surf culture.  Read more.

Rosie’s Dog Beach

• Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach, Los Angeles County. It’s not fenced and not a dedicated “dog beach,” but this strand of sand in the “dog zone” along Ocean Boulevard is open to off-leash dog play from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. Believe it or not, this is the only legally off-leash beach in the entire county!  Read more.

Carmel City Beach, Monterey County

• Carmel City Beach, Monterey County. Blue-ribbon honors go to city-owned Carmel Beach, a powdery, mile-long strand that is perhaps the best-known leash-free dog beach in the country. A plus: it’s walking distance from fashionable Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its wealth of dog-friendly lodging and places to eat.  Read more.

San Simeon Cove, San Luis Obispo County

San Simeon Pier. Photo by Gabriel Soto.

Tucked beneath William Randolph Hearst’s famous castle, San Simeon Cove is a jewel of a place with emerald water and ample space for dogs to romp.  Read more.

Fort Funston, San Francisco

• Fort Funston, San Francisco. This stretch of rugged headlands just south of Ocean Beach in the southwest part of the city is not fenced, but it’s nirvana for off-leash dogs and woofing with canine activity even on drizzly, foggy days.  Read more.

Mitchell’s Cove, Santa Cruz County

• Mitchell’s Cove, Santa Cruz County. This pretty city beach just off West Cliff Drive allows leashed dogs at any time, while leash-free romping is permitted between sunrise and 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to sunset.  Read more.

Noyo Beach, Mendocino County

Photo by @finnbodey.

Noyo Beach, Mendocino County. Legal places to romp off-leash with your dog are few and far between on Mendocino County’s gorgeous coastline, but one place you can unclip and let your pup run free is Noyo Beach Off-Leash Dog Area in Fort Bragg.  Read more.

Muir Beach, Marin County

• Muir Beach, Marin County. This is a Bay Area classic: A crescent of sand bordered by high bluffs to the north and south, with wetlands and a lagoon behind the strand. Dogs under reliable voice control (meaning Daisy comes immediately when called) are allowed off-leash in designated areas.  Read more.

All aboard a choo-choo train

Photo by @wandering_wednesday

The chug-chug and urgent whistle call of an approaching train is always exciting, especially when a vintage steam engine leads the charge. How can you hear it and see it and not want to be on it? Several family-friendly excursion trains in California welcome dogs as well as parents, grandparents and youngsters aboard. Here’s a rundown.  Read more.

River dogs rule at Little River Inn

Photo by Little River Inn.

Little River Inn, in the coastal Mendocino County town of Little River, offers a River Dog package, good June through October, that includes two nights in a pet-friendly, ocean-view room with fireplace; a three-hour outrigger canoe excursion on the Big River for you and your pet; a $120 dinner voucher good for room service or service in the dog-friendly parlor; and a goodie bag packed with treats   Read more.

Russian River Runners

The unhurried stretch of the Russian River downstream from the Sonoma County town of Healdsburg is a DogTrekker’s delight, especially when you’re floating along in a dog-friendly, custom-made SOAR canoe from Russian River Adventures.  Read more.

Off We Go, Into the Wild Blue Yonder

Wild Blue Dog Camp. Photo by Sharon Eide.

If you like camping and wouldn’t think about taking off for the wild blue yonder without your four-legged companions, consider giving your team an entire, activity-packed week together in the company of other dog-lovers and their pets. Wild Blue Dog Camp at Lake Tahoe is just what it sounds like: summer camp for you and your dog(s). Held just one week a year (Sept. 3-9 in 2018) on a 33-ac  Read more.

Feeling Fine In Felton

Just seven miles from downtown Santa Cruz, the town of Felton is headquarters for a scenic duck into the cool embrace of a redwood forest. If you’re traveling with children as well as the family pet, there’s no better way to do so than to hop on a dog-friendly train. Roaring Camp Railroads offers Redwood Forest Steam Train excursions in open-air cars on narrow-gauge tracks once used to  Read more.

Santa Cruz County’s Offbeat Bounty

So you’ve been there, done that in Santa Cruz County, and now it’s time for something new. If you’re of a contemplative turn of mind, Land of Medicine Buddha, a privately owned “center for healing and developing a good heart” in Soquel, is sure to enchant and delight. While its focus is on group and personal retreats, the active Buddhist community welcomes pet owners to enjoy its scenic   Read more.

Journey to Wawona (Madera County, South Entrance)

If you’re coming from Southern California, the Highway 41 corridor from Fresno up to Yosemite’s (South) Entrance, past Fish Camp, is probably the way you’ll go. The road begins its serious climb in Oakhurst, where Queen’s Inn by the River boasts an adjacent winery and  beer garden serving up almost 100 wines and craft beers on Wednesday through Sunday afternoons. Also   Read more.

Arch in from the West (Mariposa County, West Entrance)

Open the windows and let your pup take in the smells as you drive Highway 140 from Merced to Yosemite’s El Portal/Arch Rock entrance. This route offers plenty of dog-friendly fun along its windy way, passing through the towns of Mariposa, Midpines and El Portal. If you are coming south on Highway 49, be sure to check out Coulterville, a monument to another time. We recommend staying in one o  Read more.

The Year of the Dog 2018!

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New Story 2

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Tails From The Archives

Last year’s Dog-friendly Surf City USA issue covered a lot of ground and sand in the story Every Walk in Surf City is Special, highlighting famous Huntington Dog Beach, Central Park and the Brightwater Trail that offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Chow for Your Chow provides an insider's look at dining options your pup will savor in the city and Pawesome Places to Spoil Your   Read more.

Ginger by the Bay

Stacy D. shared this wonderful image with us of her sweet pup Ginger soaking up the sunshine at Crissy Field on a gorgeous San Francisco day.  Read more.

Adventures With Aria

Recently rescued from a local shelter, dogtrekker Aria tells us about one of her favorite moments exploring California with her humans:  Read more.

Paws & Paddle

DogTrekker.com reader Scott Nelson shares his favorite dog-friendly experience close to his home in the East Bay: "One of my favorite dog adventures close to home is to kayak with my do  Read more.

New Dog-friendly Hotels in California

DogTrekker.com would like to thank all DogTrekkers who contributed to our 2018 reader survey. You let us know that one of the topics you’d most like us to address this … Continued  Read more.

Paws for a Napa Valley Overnight

When it comes to dog-friendly lodging in Napa Valley, there are almost as many choices as there are wineries to visit. Start your search by sorting out your parameters regarding type, location, level of luxury, price, etc., then delve into the dog-friendly listings on DogTrekker.com.  Read more.

Like Art? Leash Up and Feast Your Eyes

Napa Valley isn’t all about food and wine; it’s also a magnet for artists and art lovers from around the world. Combining a dog walk with a little art appreciation is a great way to spend a day—and get some unique backdrops for your photos while you’re at it. Start with the 2017-2019 Napa Art Walk, called “Shifting Perspectives,” featuring 10 sculptures by artis  Read more.

Tenaya Lodge
Kids Eat Free

Tenaya Lodge, Kids Eat Free Starting from:$169 Call (866) 771-9629 to book the Kids Eat Free package. Food is the best family time. Enjoy the dining you deserve while the … Continued  Read more.

Baker Botts

From Chris Carr, Baker Botts, lead attorney in the fight to get the federal government to release documents under the Freedom of Information Act:  Read more.

Make it Marin for dog-friendly GGNRA trails/beaches

Julian Trail in the Marin Headlands. Photo by Jessica Bay.

More than 12,000 acres of the GGNRA are concentrated in the Marin Headlands, a hilly peninsula just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.  Read more.

GGNRA dog-walking saga: The backstory

With Bay Area populations growing and Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) lands being ever more heavily used, the National Park Service (NPS) in 2001, under the guise that dogs were harming wildlife and the environment, first moved to severely reduce the areas where four-legged companions would be allowed, both on-leash and off. Existing rules defining dog-friendly trails and beaches h  Read more.

Murphy’s Doggone Good Vacation

DogTrekker.com reader Kathleen S. spent four nights in the Palm Springs area with her four-legged family member, Murphy. Here's what she had to say about their desert getaway:  Read more.

Additional Functions

The DogTrekker mobile app has some other cool features. Maps and links for calling or visiting the websites of a particular property are found on all 8,000 listings on the app. You’ll find links to featured stories about the listing. You can also click the white heart to add to “Favorites” and then easily access them later through the main navigation bar. Download for iOS|   Read more.

Upgrade Now!

With version 2.92 in the Apple and Google play stores, now is the time to upgrade the DogTrekker.com app. Find your version number by clicking on the top DogTrekker header. On tablets, you can find your version number by clicking the information symbol at the top righthand side of the app. If your version is pre-2.9, please delete the app and download a fresh version. Download for iOS |   Read more.

Emergency Services/Lost & Injured Dogs

If your pup is injured or lost, the DogTrekker app makes the search for a 24-hour veterinary clinic or the local animal care and control shelter where found dogs are first processed a lot quicker. Simply go to the main menu in the NEARBY mode then scroll down and click on “Emergency Services.” In a flash, you will have phone numbers, addresses and directions for all emergency listings   Read more.

Out and About and Nearby

When was the last time you were out for a hike with your pup and, just before you were ready to head back to town for lunch, she rolled in a muddy puddle or dug in wet sand? No worries: Simply use the app’s NEARBY button in the navigation bar to find the nearest self-service wash rack or even a groomer. Once clean, you can use the app to find the closest dog-friendly restaurant. Downloa  Read more.

Planning Ahead Using “Explore”

Planning a road trip or already on the road and need to find a dog-friendly hotel along the way? Click the app’s EXPLORE button to pull up a list of dog-friendly lodging options within 18 California regions, 58 counties and more than 800 cities and municipalities. Once at your destination, use the app to find scores of pup-positive places to eat, play and explore with your furry friends.&nbs  Read more.

It’s a Wonderful Life For Bella

Just in time for the holidays, we received this heartfelt account from DogTrekker.com reader Alison P.: On October 4 I opened your email newsletter, Treat Your Dog to Autumn Adventure in Sonoma County. I love reading the DogTrekker newsletter, and although I'm close to and familiar with Sonoma County, I wanted to see what new trips and treats your group dug up. And that's when I first sa  Read more.

Ventura – Even More Ways to Help

It feels almost impossible to overstate the amount of love and support the community continues to receive from near and far. In Ventura, businesses, friends and neighbors are all working together to ensure everybody is taken care of and that no one feels alone. Thomas Fire: The best ways to help lists ideas and below are even more. Thank you for everything you're doing to keep #Ventu  Read more.

The Grateful Table

On Nov. 21, more than 500 people gathered in a Domaine Chandon vineyard near the border of Napa and Sonoma counties to enjoy an open-air feast at a very long table and raise funds for wildfire relief. Fire responders, chefs, winemakers, tourism officials and many others gave time, energy and money to help those impacted by the October blazes. Visit California and Outstanding in the Field—along w  Read more.

Paws for a good read

Whether it’s a novel, a feel-good memoir, a training how-to or a delve into animal psychology, books about animals and the animal-human bond make cherished gifts for the dog-lovers in your life. Jeff Stanford, owner of the dog-passionate Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino, provided this list of favorites enjoyed by his guests.  Read more.

Stocking Stuffers For Your Pet

Does your dog get a Christmas stocking? Yeah, ours do, too. It’s fun to buy treats and toys for four-legged family members, especially ones that keep them busy throughout what in many households is a very busy day (you know, gift-opening, big meal, football, naps….). So what’s trending this year? Our friends at Pet Food Express gave us a few leads, and we sleuthed through Santa&  Read more.

The season of giving

DogTrekker operates on the principles set forth in its 4-Paw Promise: “To deliver local and accurate listings, provide engaging and actionable content and focus on social commitment to the communities we serve.” The “social commitment” part of that promise encompasses more than 300 rescues, shelters and adoption centers listed on our website and mobile app. We provide visibility, awareness  Read more.

Sip and Stroll in Santa Barbara County

When the weather outside is frightful, the dog-friendly welcome in Santa Barbara County is still delightful. If it’s not a beach day, make it a wine day – and maybe an urban wine day, at that. Start, perhaps, in the Santa Ynez Valley enclave of Solvang, that one-of-a-kind village, founded as a Danish colony, that through architecture, bakeries, restaurants and merchants offers a taste   Read more.

Where to Cruz With Your Pup

If you don’t live in Santa Cruz County, you probably know this gorgeous stretch of the California coast for its beaches, its stellar university and the namesake town that proudly embraces its somewhat eccentric reputation. But Santa Cruz County is also known for its mountains, its redwood forests and its wines, particularly the pinot noir and chardonnay that thrive in the fog-kissed climate.  Read more.

A toast to Mendo festival season

Photo by @nyeranch.

Would you believe more than 1,000 varieties of mushrooms grow beneath Mendocino’s ferns and redwoods? It’s true—and also best to let the experts identify what’s edible and what’s not! You’ll find lots of edible varieties prepared in imaginative ways during Mendocino County’s Mushroom, Wine and Beer Festival. It takes place Nov. 3-12 with activities scheduled all over the county. Some  Read more.

Paws for an overnight break in Mendocino County

The summer crowds are gone, cool weather has set in and Mendocino County lodging properties are tempting visitors with low-season specials.  Read more.

Wild Blue Dog Camp Video

Welcome to the Wild Blue Dog Camp video page! DogTrekker.com was excited to participate in this year's camp promotion and wanted to share the full-length video of all of the … Continued  Read more.

DogCation adventures at the Stanford Inn and beyond

DogCation winner Jolene C. recently wrote in to let us know about her adventures in Mendocino County with her daughter and two pups at the Stanford Inn by the Sea and beyond.  Read more.

Rush On Up to Redding

Lace up your hiking boots, load Lucy into the car and get a grip on your leash: you’ll need it when you see how excited she’ll become upon encountering a multitude of new sights and smells in dog-friendly Redding, your gateway to the eight-county Shasta Cascade region. On a clear day, the 13,162-foot, snow-covered cone of Mount Shasta fills the windshield during the 2.5-hour drive up I  Read more.

Go Boho on the Bohemian Highway

It’s just 10 miles long, but oh, what a sweet 10 miles. The Bohemian Highway, named for the artists and other alternative-lifestyle folks who settled the area after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake (and kept coming, especially in the 1960s), is a scenic and pastoral two-lane byway anchored by artist-filled communities, organic farms and wineries, one-of-a-kind shops, innovative restaurants   Read more.

Buoy at the Beach

We love this gorgeous photo of Buoy hanging out along the Pacific Ocean in Half Moon Bay sent to us by Dr. Erin Troy of Muller Veterinary Hospital in Walnut Creek.  Read more.

Carneros, Here We Come

What part of the Napa and Sonoma valleys is closest to the Bay Area and Sacramento? The answer: Carneros, a wine-growing region and AVA (American Viticultural Area) that spans parts of Sonoma and Napa counties and backs up to San Pablo Bay. The marine influence makes Carneros (which means “sheep” in Spanish) a bit cooler than regions up-valley, with a microclimate ideal for cultivation  Read more.

Make Time for Mount Shasta

The Shasta Cascade region’s name comes from a monumental mountain (Mount Shasta, at 14,179 feet, one of the highest peaks in the country) and the Cascade mountain range that begins where the Sierra Nevada peters out, just north of Lake Almanor in Plumas County. The mountain, 75 miles north of Redding, is considered by many to be one of the world’s most spiritual “power spots,&rdq  Read more.