Long Barn Lodge sits at 5,000 feet along Highway 108 in Tuolumne County, high enough that you’ll notice the temperature drop as soon as you arrive. The elevation makes it a genuine escape from valley heat, and the lodge itself offers a mix of motel rooms and fully furnished cabins depending on what works for your trip.

What makes this place worthwhile for traveling with a dog is the immediate access to trails and outdoor space. You can walk right out and explore miles of pine forest and nearby rivers without much planning. The trails in the surrounding area are mostly dog-friendly, so you’re not limited to just the lodge grounds. Bring water and a leash—the mountain air and constant exploring will keep your dog happily tired.

The lodge has an ice-skating rink in winter that converts to an event space during warmer months. Depending on what’s happening during your visit, there may be activities going on, and the property has designated areas where dogs can hang out while you’re occupied. The staff here seem to actually understand that people travel with dogs and want their stays to work, not just tolerate it.

The cabins are a good option if you want a bit more privacy and your own space to decompress after a day of hiking. The motel rooms are more straightforward but still comfortable for a night or two. Either way, you’re essentially staying in a spot that’s designed to be a jumping-off point for the surrounding forest rather than a destination unto itself.

Before booking, call ahead to confirm what their current pet policies are and whether there are any specific requirements for your dog. Policies can shift, and you’ll want to know exactly what’s allowed. If you’re planning to spend serious time on the trails around Long Barn, this location gives you a solid base without the resort markup.