Carson Pass sits right on Highway 88 about 60 miles east of Jackson, marked by those distinctive brown highway signs that point you toward Sierra Nevada snow country. This SNO-Park is one of the better winter spots in Alpine County if you want to get your dog out in the snow without dealing with snowmobile traffic—they’re banned here, which means you’ll have a quieter experience. The parking area is plowed and maintained, so you’re not struggling to find a spot or trudging through deep drifts just to start your day.

The main draws are cross-country skiing and dog sledding, though plenty of people come just for snow play with their dogs. If your dog hasn’t spent much time in serious snow, this is a good place to let them burn off some energy while you figure out what they actually enjoy. Some dogs take to it immediately; others need a minute to adjust to the cold and the depth of it all. The trails radiating from the parking area give you options depending on how ambitious you’re feeling and what kind of shape your dog is in.

You’ll need a SNO-Park permit to park here, which costs $15 for a day pass or $40 for a season pass. It’s worth grabbing the season pass if you think you’ll make multiple trips during winter. The site is only open seasonally from November 1st through May 30th, though accessibility really depends on snow conditions—some years you might have reliable access by late October, other years you’re waiting until December. There are basic sanitation facilities at the parking area, which matters if you’re spending several hours out there. Check conditions before you head up; a clear day at Carson Pass in January is completely different from what you might find in March.