Dog-Friendly Hikes near Central Valley

Featured hikes

Alamo Creek Park

Vacaville

At 9.5 acres, Alamo Creek Park in Vacaville, Solano County, East Bay Area, is a haven for visitors seeking a dog-friendly outdoor escape. This expansive park offers a plethora of amenities to cater to both relaxation and recreation.

American River Bend Park

Sacramento

American River Bend Park is one of Sacramento’s oldest county parks. A long central road paralleling the river links you to this park’s many recreation facilities.

American River Parkway

Sacramento

In Sacramento County lies the American River Parkway, a vibrant greenbelt stretching along the banks of the American River.

Andrews Park

Vacaville

Andrews Park, located in Vacaville, is a sprawling 18-acre green space that offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy.

Balsam Meadows SNO-Park

Shaver Lake

Balsam Meadows SNO-Park, situated on the north side of Highway 168, east of Shaver Lake in Fresno County, is a haven for winter enthusiasts seeking a dog-friendly snow play destination.

Blackbird Park

Sacramento

Blackbird Park, a 9.93-acre community park located in the North Natomas area of Sacramento, is a haven for both residents and their furry companions.

Blackwood Canyon

Tahoe City

Blackwood Canyon is located on the west side of Highway 89, three miles south of Tahoe City in Placer County. Blackwood Canyon is the only state managed sno-park on Lake Tahoe's north shore.

Canyon to Paige

Tahoe City

Ward Canyon to Paige Meadows is rated easy and is 1.4 miles round trip. Location: Ward Creek Boulevard Trailhead. This trailhead can be found off Highway 89, 2.5 miles south of Tahoe City.

Coyote SNO-Park

Big Creek

Coyote SNO-Park, situated on the north side of Highway 168 east of Shaver Lake in Big Creek, Fresno County, offers a picturesque winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Eastwood Sno-Park

Lakeshore

Eastwood SNO-Park is located on the east side of Highway 168 at Huntington Lake Road in Sierra National Forest, which maintains 209 miles of groomed trails in this region. Recommended Activities: Cross-country skiing, dog sledding and snow play.

El Dorado Trail

Sacramento

The El Dorado Trail stretches approximately 35 miles between Placerville and the Camino area of Northern California, offering a scenic route or pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians. With a gentle 2% grade this trail provides an easy spot for dog walking.

Folsom Lake State

Sacramento

Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills in Placer, El Dorado and Sacramento Counties, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Folsom Lake is about 25 miles northeast of Sacramento in the

Gibson Ranch Regional Park

Sacramento

Any day is a good day to experience the country at Gibson Ranch Regional Park in Sacramento County. This 355-acre facility offers a plethora of activities for visitors and their furry companions.

Grizzly Island Wildlife Area

Suisun City

Grizzly Island Wildlife area consists of 8,600 acres in the 84,000-acre Suisun Marsh, largest contiguous estuarine marsh in the United States.

Hagan Community Park

Sacramento

Hagan Community Park, the largest park within the Cordova Recreation & Park District in Rancho Cordova, Sacramento County, spans nearly 80 acres.

Hinkle Creek Nature Area

Sacramento

Hinkle Creek Nature Area, located in Sacramento, Sacramento County, is a serene thirty-six-acre haven for nature enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Humbug-Willow Creek Trail

Sacramento

Covering nearly 15 miles, the Humbug-Willow Creek Trail system, accessible from many points in the city, is the most extensive bike and pedestrian trail system in the city of Folsom.

Huntington Lake

Lakeshore

Huntington Lake is a popular summer and winter recreation area. This beautiful high sierra lake provides wonderful opportunities for camping, hiking, picnicking, sailing, windsurfing, swimming, fishing, horseback riding and scenic driving.

Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail

Sacramento

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail offers the best trail access in the Sacramento area. This dog-friendly trail winds from Folsom to Old Sacramento, paralleling the American River and stopping at many key places along the way.

Lake Natoma

Sacramento

Lake Natoma, part of Folsom State Recreation Area, is the site of many rowing, sailing, sculling and outrigger canoe regattas in summer. Kayaking is extremely popular here. Dogs are allowed in picnic areas but not on or near swimming beaches.

Lake Natoma Loop Trail

Sacramento

Dog-friendly Lake Natoma Loop Trail spans 11 miles and has enough topography change to keep things interesting but not strenuous. It follows the shore of Lake Natoma, crossing Willow Creek and Alder Creek on wooden bridges.

Oak Parkway Trail

Sacramento

The Oak Parkway Trail, a dog-friendly route in Folsom, a Sacramento suburb, spans just over 2 miles, seamlessly linking the eastern and western portions of the city.

Pacific Crest Trail

Tahoe City

The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is a 2,650-mile footpath stretching from Mexico to Canada and traversing the states of California, Oregon and Washington. The trail is open to hikers and equestrians only; no bicycles or motorized vehicles are allowed.

Page Meadow

Tahoe City

Page Meadow, part of the Tahoe National Forest, is an easy and beautiful hiking area on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. It is great for snowshoe beginners in the winter and wildflower enthusiasts in the spring and summer.

Paradise Beach

Sacramento

Paradise Beach, a hidden gem near California State University, Sacramento, offers a serene escape for water-loving dogs in Sacramento County.

Pena Adobe/Lagoon Valley Park

Vacaville

Pena Adobe/Lagoon Valley Park, spanning 470 acres, offers a diverse range of amenities for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Regency Community Park

Sacramento

Regency Community Park in Sacramento is a sprawling 41.67-acre oasis that seamlessly blends recreational opportunities with natural beauty.

River Bend Park

Sacramento

444-acre River Bend Park is one of Sacramento’s oldest county parks. A long central road paralleling the river links you to this park’s many recreation facilities.

Rossmoor Bar

Sacramento

Rossmoor Bar, a peninsula in Rancho Cordova bordered by the American River on three sides, offers a serene escape for both humans and their furry companions in Sacramento County.

Salmon Falls & Darrington

Sacramento

The Salmon Falls & Darrington Trail offers a fantastic opportunity for a dog-friendly outdoor adventure in El Dorado Hills, California.

Secret Trail Brewing Company

Chico

Secret Trail Brewing Company, an artisan craft brewery in Chico, Butte County, is a community-focused establishment that prides itself on locally sourced ingredients and a diverse selection of classic styles and original innovations.

Sunrise Recreation Area

Sacramento

Sunrise Recreation Area in Rancho Cordova, Sacramento County, is a dog-friendly waterfront park offering a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors and their furry companions.

Sutter’s Landing Park

Sacramento

Sutter's Landing Park in Sacramento, located in Sacramento County within the Central Valley, offers a sprawling 166.83-acre green space for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Tahoe City Lakeside Trail

Tahoe City

Tahoe City Lakeside Trail, located in Tahoe City, Placer County, is a picturesque mile-long "missing link" connecting two segments of the North Shore's 19-mile bike path along the river.

Tahoe Rim Trail

Tahoe City

The Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) in Tahoe City, Placer County, is a renowned 165-mile single-track multiuse trail that welcomes bikers, hikers, and equestrians to explore its scenic beauty.

Tamarack SNO-Park

Shaver Lake

Tamarack SNO-Park, situated on the south side of Highway 168 east of Shaver Lake in Fresno County, is a haven for winter enthusiasts and their furry companions.

William Land Park

Sacramento

William Land Park, also known simply as "Land Park" is a 207-arce park offering many amenities, including a zoo, amphitheater, golf course & ball fields. The park also has jogging paths, lakes, picnic areas, restrooms, and a rock garden.

Woodward Park

Fresno

Woodward Park, the largest park in Fresno County, covers an expansive 300 acres, offering a plethora of recreational opportunities for visitors and their furry companions.

Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area

Sacramento

On Interstate 80 at the Yolo Causeway between Davis and Sacramento, you will see signs identifying the dog-friendly Vic Fazio Yolo Wildlife Area within the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area.

Ancil Hoffman Park

Sacramento

Ancil Hoffman Park, located in Sacramento County within the Central Valley, offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Angel Falls

Bass Lake

Angel Falls is a dog-friendly hiking area located in Bass Lake, California, in beautiful Mariposa County — the gateway to Yosemite National Park. Rated 4.7/5 on Google (73 reviews).

Bannon Creek Park

Sacramento

Sacramento's Bannon Creek Park, located in Sacramento County within the Central Valley, offers a delightful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Beelard Park

Vacaville

Beelard Park, located in Vacaville, Solano County, in the East Bay Area, is a delightful 5.2-acre green space that welcomes dogs with open arms.

Brannan Island State Recreation Area

Rio Vista

Delta recreation area with boat access, campground, and a swim beach — leashed dogs welcome at campsites, picnic areas, and along the shoreline.

Brockway to Watson

Tahoe Vista

The Brockway to Watson Lake trail is 13.4 miles round trip and is classified as a strenuous hike. Location: The Brockway trailhead is on Highway 267 about 0.5 miles south of the summit.

Browns Valley Open Space

Vacaville

Browns Valley Open Space in Vacaville, located in Solano County within the East Bay Area, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking dog-friendly hiking trails and scenic views.

Browns Valley Park

Vacaville

Browns Valley Park, located in Vacaville, Solano County, in the East Bay Area, is a charming 4.4-acre green space offering a range of amenities for visitors of all ages.

Centennial Park

Vacaville

Centennial Park, situated in Vacaville, is a sprawling 265-acre expanse offering a variety of recreational opportunities in Solano County, part of the vibrant East Bay Area.

Codfish Creek Falls Trail

Weimar

This leisurely, 3.8-mile (round trip) hike follows the North Fork of the American River to Codfish Creek, which in spring sports a zesty, 60-foot waterfall.

Corderos Park

Vacaville

Corderos Park, located on Parkside Dr. in Vacaville, is a delightful destination for dog owners seeking a pet-friendly outdoor experience in Solano County's East Bay Area.

Cronan Ranch Regional Trails

Pilot Hill

Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park is 1,418 scenic acres laced with 12 miles of dog-friendly hiking and riding trails leading from two staging areas to the South Fork of the American River.

Dave Moore Nature Area

Sacramento

One of the main features of the dog-friendly Dave Moore Nature Area is a loop trail about a mile long which goes from the parking lot trailhead to the South Fork American River and back again passing through several habitat types.

Del Oro Farm Trail

Oroville

The beginning of specialty farms in Butte County actually chronicles the development of California’s agricultural industry that is now celebrated around the world for its diversity of crops and progressive farmers.

Discovery Park

Sacramento

Located beside I-5 in downtown Sacramento, Discovery Park is a 302-acre park with a 32-mile bike trail, ball fields, picnic sites, fishing & boat launches. Recreational boaters get the chance to explore both of Sacramento’s wild and scenic rivers.

Dry Creek Parkway

Sacramento

The Dry Creek Parkway in Sacramento, Placer County, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions. This developing park site offers a plethora of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Feather Falls Loop Trail

Oroville

Don’t leave your camera behind. Feather Falls National Scenic Trail offers you an incredible view of Bald Rock Dome, Bald Rock Canyon, and the 640-foot waterfall, Feather Falls.

Five Lakes Trail

Alpine Meadows

This moderate hike rewards with great scenery and a string of five sparkling lakes open for fishing and swimming. It's about 5 miles round-trip from the trailhead on Alpine Meadows Road to the first lake.

Gateway Oaks Trail

Sacramento

In Sacramento, California, the Gateway Oaks Trail offers a delightful escape for both two-legged and four-legged adventurers alike.

Glenbrook Park

Sacramento

Glenbrook Park, a 17.46-acre green space in Sacramento, offers a plethora of amenities for both humans and their furry companions.

Granite Regional Park

Sacramento

Granite Regional Park in Sacramento, Sacramento County, Central Valley, is an expansive 80.45-acre park offering a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy.

Gristmill Access Area

Sacramento

The Gristmill Access Area is primarily used by hikers, anglers, rafters, and boaters. Dogs are permitted provided they are leashed. A cobblestone bar, which is accessible by vehicle, protrudes into the river.

Heron Landing Community Park

Rancho Cordova

At just over 20 acres, Heron Landing Community Park offers visitors a variety of recreational amenities with its innovative features

Hume Grove Loop

Vacaville

Hume Grove Loop, located in Pena Adobe/Lagoon Valley Park in Vacaville, Solano County, is a delightful 1.4-mile trail that welcomes dogs to explore the scenic beauty of Jack Hume Grove.

Live like a local in dog-friendly Sacramento

Set along the Sacramento and American rivers, Sacramento offers endless activities and an engaging dog-friendly lifestyle. Mornings start on waterfront trails. Afternoons unfold across sun-kissed parks and restaurant patios. Each evening, serene, stylish hotels invite four- and two-legged guests to…

Effortless day trips and outdoor adventures

Sacramento sits within a short drive of some of California's most iconic activities, including many delightfully dog-friendly options. It’s easy to choose your own adventure here, whether you'd like to taste small-batch wines, hike ruggedly beautiful trails, survey the state's…

Cappie at the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, Sacramento

Settle in and stay a little longer

With so many activities for four-legged VIPs, it's worth lingering longer in Sacramento. Dog-friendly hotels offer generous amenities and comfortable options for every price point. Plus, walkable neighborhoods feature independent shops and dining venues that welcome you like a local…

Dog-friendly California destination, photo courtesy of Sacramento River Cats

Gathering places for pups and people

Some of Sacramento's most dog-friendly spots double as social spaces that connect travelers with friendly locals. By striking up a conversation, you'll often get the inside scoop on the best parks, restaurants, shops and trails for pups. These paw-some playgrounds…

Two Doberman Pinschers looking at a taco plate, ears up, in Sacramento.

Start your day the local way

In Sacramento, mornings move at an easy pace. Greet the day on the American River Parkway, where dog walkers can wander for miles, or play fetch in a neighborhood park. From there, swing by one of the city’s many coffee…

A child's hand points to a map that a ranger is holding

Dog-friendly Sacramento River Delta: where to take your pup

If you're scouting a spring getaway that doesn't require a four-hour drive or a June reservation made in February, point the car east from the Bay Area toward the Sacramento River Delta.

Hikes near Central Valley

Hikes near Central Valley near me..

Hikes near Central Valley

Hikes near Central Valley

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