Nevada County, located in the northern portion of California’s Gold Country, offers dog owners rewarding adventures year-round. With the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, the historic towns of Nevada City and Grass Valley welcome dogs at outdoor patios, boutique shops, and charming downtown strolls through Gold Rush-era streets.

The county’s trails are a highlight for hiking with your pup. Empire Mine State Historic Park features miles of forested paths through historic mining grounds, and the South Yuba River State Park offers scenic canyon trails and swimming holes. Up at Donner Summit, dog-friendly trails wind through alpine meadows and past granite peaks. In winter, many cross-country ski areas welcome leashed dogs, making Nevada County a true four-season destination for adventurous pups.