In Truckee, Nevada County, Boca Reservoir sits within the Gold Country Trails area and offers a solid mix of water and land activities for you and your dog. The reservoir itself is popular for boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and swimming, with several inlets along the shoreline that work well for picnics or just hanging out with your dog while you take in views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The water here draws a fair number of people on weekends, so if you’re looking for something quieter, aim for weekday visits. You can spread out a blanket along the shore while your dog gets some exercise nearby. Pack snacks and water for both of you—there are plenty of spots where you can settle in and eat while watching the water.

The real draw for hiking with your dog is the trail system around the reservoir. Miles of trails wind through the area, ranging from casual walks along the water’s edge to more challenging hikes through pine forest. The terrain varies enough that you can pick something matching your dog’s fitness level and your own. The trails give you a real sense of the Sierra Nevada landscape without requiring a huge time commitment or technical skills.

Dogs are allowed on most areas of the reservoir, but you’ll want to keep yours on a leash and pay attention to any posted restrictions about where pets can go. The area sees regular use from locals and visitors, so sticking to the rules helps keep things running smoothly for everyone.

Boca Reservoir works well if you want options—you’re not locked into either hiking or water activities. You could easily spend an afternoon mixing both, taking a trail for an hour and then relaxing by the water. The drive from Truckee takes about 20 minutes, making it manageable as a half-day outing. Weather in the high Sierra can shift quickly, so bring a layer even if it looks clear when you arrive.