Lewis Creek Trail North Trailhead sits just outside Oakhurst, making it an excellent warm-up hike if you’re heading to Yosemite or a solid destination on its own. The trailhead access is straightforward, and you’ll quickly find yourself on a well-maintained path that follows Lewis Creek as it winds through the Sierra foothills. The creek provides plenty of water sources along the way, which is helpful on warmer days when your dog will want to cool off.

The terrain here is mostly moderate, with some elevation gain but nothing too brutal. You’ll pass through mixed conifer and oak forest, and the shade is genuinely welcome during summer months. The creek itself is the real draw — it’s almost always nearby, and there are several spots where the trail drops down close enough for dogs to get in for a quick dip or drink. The water stays pretty cool even in July and August.

The hike works well for dogs of different fitness levels since you can turn around whenever you want rather than being locked into a set loop. Most people seem to do somewhere between 3 and 6 miles out-and-back depending on their energy levels. The scenery stays interesting the whole way — you’re not just hiking next to the creek, you’re actually crossing it in a few spots and getting good views of the water as it cascades over rocks.

The area is less crowded than many Yosemite-adjacent trails, so you won’t be dealing with huge crowds on weekends. That said, it’s worth calling ahead to confirm current pet policies and whether there are any seasonal closures or restrictions. Water and shade are plentiful, but bring your own supplies for longer outings.