Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail in Tuolumne County is a solid moderately easy hike that loops around the lake shoreline, starting from the marina area. The 7-mile route gives you steady views of the water, the Stanislaus River inlet, and the dam as you make your way around. You can hike it either direction—clockwise or counterclockwise—depending on where you want the sun and which side of the lake appeals to you that day.

The trail itself is well-maintained and straightforward to follow, which makes it manageable even if your dog isn’t a seasoned hiker. The elevation gain is gradual rather than steep, so you’re not fighting a lot of climbing. You’ll pass through typical Gold Country forest mixed with open stretches along the water, and the whole loop takes most of a day if you’re moving at a comfortable pace and stopping to let your dog wade or rest.

Dogs are completely welcome here, which is the main draw for most people visiting with them. There are spots along the way where the trail dips close enough to the water that your dog can get in if they want to cool off, though the shoreline isn’t all accessible—some sections are rocky or brushy. Bring plenty of water anyway, since the trail itself doesn’t have reliable water sources for refilling, and the mountain sun reflects hard off the lake.

The marina area where you start has parking, and it’s straightforward to find off Highway 108. Late spring through early fall is the best time to go, when the trail is clear and the weather cooperative. The lake can get busy on summer weekends, but the trail itself spreads people out enough that it doesn’t feel crowded. Just show up early if you’re going on a Saturday.