Mariposa County
Mariposa County, known affectionately as the “Mother of Counties,” was one of California’s original counties created at the time of statehood in 1850. It initially encompassed one-fifth of the state, but over time pieces of its territory were ceded to 12 other counties.
Today, Mariposa County’s eastern extremes comprise the central portion of Yosemite National Park, with Highway 140, a main artery, leading to the preserve’s El Portal entrance.
Dog-friendly lodging, chow, hikes, water, activities and local services abound in the towns along Highways 140 and 49 and throughout the rest of the county.
Photo courtesy: Yosemite/Mariposa County Tourism Bureau
After spending a long day exploring the awe-inspiring Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, you’ll be ready to relax at the Ascent Spa at Tenaya Lodge. From soothing facial and body therapies to deep-tissue massage and relaxation time in the sauna, Ascent Spa has a full menu of calming services. Ready for dinner? Jackalope’s Bar and Grill features made-to-order burgers, sandwiches, gluten-free dishes and vegan bites, plus local wines and beers. more »
You’ll fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite. If you're planning to visit Yosemite National Park, including Badger Pass and other areas in the park that have restrictions on dogs, you have the option of reserving a limited spot at Tenaya Lodge’s indoor dog kennel. more »
Not surprisingly, a place as big as Yosemite is home to plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for children of all ages. Of course, there’s the seemingly-endless natural beauty waiting in Yosemite Valley. As just one example, Glacier Point offers outstanding stargazing. more »
Dog at Lower Falls. Photo by Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau.
Late winter and early spring are great times to visit Yosemite National Park, but be sure to read up on the rules regarding pets before you go. Hotels inside park boundaries don’t allow pets, but pet-friendly places to curl up (click on lodging type and use the pet-friendly filter) are abundant elsewhere in Mariposa County. In Yosemite Valley, the premier winter/spring waterfall hike leads to Lower Yosemite Fall, the most accessible of three stair-stepped cascades that comprise America’s tallest cataract at 2,425 feet in total height. more »
Winter evening at Tenaya Lodge
Winter officially begins on December 21, but you wouldn’t know it by the snowflakes piling up throughout the Yosemite region. This beautiful region is home to a DogTrekker favorite, Tenaya Lodge. more »