In Ukiah, Mendocino County, California Wine Country, the Shakota Trail offers a solid 6-mile round trip hike along the western shore of Lake Mendocino. This moderately challenging out-and-back route stays mostly shaded, which makes a real difference during warmer months. You’ll start at the marked trailhead in the Kyen Campground near Pomo, where the parking area gives you immediate access to the path.

Dogs are welcome on leash throughout the hike, and the trail’s proximity to the water means you’ll pass several spots where your dog can wade in and cool off during the walk. The landscape varies as you move along the shoreline—sometimes you’re right along the water, other times the trail winds through oak and madrone forest that provides decent shade coverage. The terrain itself is fairly straightforward, nothing too technical underfoot, though the elevation change keeps it from feeling flat.

The lake views remain consistent enough that the hike doesn’t feel monotonous, even though it’s an out-and-back rather than a loop. You’ll see the water frequently enough to mark your progress and give your dog reasons to pause and sniff the shoreline. The moderate difficulty rating is accurate—it’s not strenuous, but it’s enough of a workout that your dog will sleep well afterward.

The main thing to know is that this isn’t a hidden gem, so summer weekends can draw crowds, especially families and other hikers with dogs. Mornings or weekday visits are noticeably quieter. Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog since the trail itself doesn’t have water stations, though the lake is accessible at intervals. The shade helps, but the sun still reaches through the trees enough that you’ll want to time it for cooler parts of the day if you’re hiking in late June through early September.