Sierra County, located in the northern section of California’s Gold Country, welcomes dog parents to its breathtaking mountain landscapes. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, this tiny county features dog-friendly trails and parks throughout the Tahoe National Forest and along the pristine Yuba River, where your pup can splash in swimming holes and explore miles of forested paths.

The historic town of Downieville sits at the confluence of the Downie and North Yuba rivers, offering gold rush-era charm alongside world-class mountain biking and hiking trails that welcome leashed dogs. Adventurous pups will love the trails around Sierra Buttes, where dramatic granite peaks and wildflower meadows reward every climb. With barely 3,000 year-round residents, Sierra County delivers uncrowded wilderness, crystal-clear rivers, and a genuine mountain town atmosphere that makes it one of California’s best-kept secrets for dog-friendly outdoor recreation.