Dog-Friendly Hikes near Gold Country

Featured hikes

American River Parkway

Sacramento

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

Apple Hill Hard Cider Trail

Camino

Opening in September of 2019, the Apple Hill Hard Cider Trail in Camino, El Dorado County, offers a delightful experience for both you and your furry companion.

Discover the renowned Apple Hill Wine Trail in Camino, El Dorado County, located in Gold Country. This dog-friendly trail offers a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Arnold Rim Trail

Arnold

Hike, bike, or horseback ride the dog-friendly Arnold Rim Trail (ART), a mid-elevation non-motorized, 17.5-mile trail system in the central Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Auburn State Recreation Area

Auburn

Dogs on leash are allowed everywhere within 35,000-acre Auburn State Recreation Area except at Lake Clementine.

Bassi Falls

Placerville

What you see at Bassi Falls depends on when you go. In spring, the melt-water cascade tumbles violently 109 feet over a jumble of polished granite boulders. In summer, the flow shrinks to just a trickle, but wildflowers provides visual compensation.

Big Meadow East

South Lake Tahoe

Big Meadow East is 8.8 miles round trip. Location: The Big Meadow trailhead is on the north side of Highway 89 approximately five miles south of US 50. This part of the trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians.

Big Meadow trailhead

South Lake Tahoe

Big Meadow Trailhead to Big Meadow is 1.4 miles round trip and rated easy. Location: The Big Meadow trailhead is on the north side of Highway 89 approximately five miles south of US 50.

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.

Blue Ridge Trail North

Rumsey

This is not a trail for beginners. The terrain is rough and very steep. The best time to hike this trail is in the spring when temperatures aren’t too high.

Blue Ridge Trail South

Rumsey

The hike starts at the parking area at the headwaters of Fiske Creek and climbs about 200 feet up to the ridge. Once on the ridge, follow the ridgeline north until you get to Fiske Peak.

Boca Reservoir

Truckee

In Truckee, Nevada County, within the Gold Country Trails, lies the Boca Reservoir, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Buttermilk Bend Trail

Truckee

The Buttermilk Bend Trail is an easy, 1.5-mile hike along bluffs above the South Yuba River. It's especially popular in March, April and May, when wildflowers frame views of the churning river below.

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.

Coldstream Valley

Truckee

Coldstream Valley offers a mellow hike with your dog offering views of the Sierra Crest, has nice flowers in the spring, and circumnavigates a series of ponds. Head down Coldstream Road, which alternates pavement and dirt.

Columns of the Giants

Pinecrest

Columns of the Giants in Pinecrest, Tuolumne County, is a must-visit spot for dog owners looking to explore the stunning geologic formations of the Gold Country region.

Delfino Farms

Camino

This Apple Hill ranch has it all, from apple orchards, pie shop and restaurant to corn maze, pumpkin patch, Christmas trees, gourds, Indian corn, farm animals, nature trail and an acre of lawn. Since 1964, Edio and Joan Delfino have loved sharing their farm with

Donner Lake Rim Trail

Truckee

The Donner Lake Rim Trail trail is being built by the Truckee Donner Land Trust with volunteer labor.

Donner Memorial State Park

Truckee

Donner Memorial State Park offers camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, water-skiing and hiking at Donner Lake in Truckee, CA. At the far end of Donner Memorial State Park, the Coldstream Valley fire road connects with dog-friendly trails traversing the High Sierra.

Eagle Falls Trail

South Lake Tahoe

Eagle Falls Trail offers an easy, dog-friendly hike with stunning scenery that's perfect for beginning hikers who aren't afraid of a bit of a climb in South Lake Tahoe.

Echo Lake

South Lake Tahoe

Echo Lake offers year-round dog-friendly fun with hiking options and a SNO-Park in the winter season. This scenic area at Echo Summit is justifiably popular with DogTrekkers as leashes are not required away from developed areas.

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.

Fallen Leaf Lake Trail

South Lake Tahoe

This beautiful lake, second largest in the Tahoe Basin, is a great spot for dog-friendly picnicking, swimming, fishing, and biking. From the South Lake Tahoe "Y", drive north on Highway 89 and turn left on Fallen Leaf Lake Road.

Fiske Creek Trail

Rumsey

The Fiske Creek Trail is one of the best undiscovered gems in Yolo County. Breathtaking views of Blue Ridge, a cool creek, and expansive glades of Blue Oak make this a pleasure to hike.

Frog Pond Trail

Rumsey

The Frog Pond Trail hike takes you through oak woodlands to a small pond. The pond is said to have some very large frogs living in and around its shores.

Fudge Factory Farm

Placerville

Fudge Factory Farm in Placerville, El Dorado County, is a haven for both humans and their furry companions.

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.

Hidden Falls Regional Park

Auburn

Hidden Falls Regional Park is a 1,200-acre regional park in Auburn, California. The park offers 30 miles of hiking/equestrian trails in Placer County and the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Highway 108 SNO-Park

Strawberry

California State Highway 108 traverses the Sierra Nevada at an elevation of 9,628 feet and is subject to winter closure at Highway 108 SNO-Park. The SNO-Park is located at the winter closure gate about 6 miles east of Strawberry.

Indigeny Reserve

Sonora

Drive along a secluded tree-lined road, over the covered bridge, and immerse yourself in Indigeny Reserve™. This ciderworks and distillery are on a verdant 160-acre, eco-friendly preserve in Sonora, California.

Jackson Hole trail

Oakhurst

The dog-friendly Jackson Hole trail in Fish Camp, located in Yosemite Madera County within the Gold Country region, offers a picturesque outdoor adventure for both you and your furry companion.

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.

Jenkinson Lake

Pollock Pines

This 650-acre, turquoise-blue gem of a lake with a nine-mile trail around its circumference is a very popular with Central Valley residents escaping the summer heat. At 3,500 feet in elevation, it's a good 10 degrees cooler than the valley below.

Lake Alpine SNO-Park

Arnold

Lake Alpine SNO-Park is located at the winter closure gate on Highway 4.

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.

Lewis Creek middle trailhead

Oakhurst

Lewis Creek Trail Middle Trailhead is a dog-friendly hiking area located in Oakhurst, California, in beautiful Mariposa County — the gateway to Yosemite National Park. Rated 4.8/5 on Google (452 reviews).

Lewis Creek north trailhead

Oakhurst

Lewis Creek Trail North Trailhead is a dog-friendly hiking area located in Oakhurst, California, in beautiful Mariposa County — the gateway to Yosemite National Park. Rated 4.7/5 on Google (70 reviews).

Lewis Creek south trailhead

Oakhurst

Lewis Creek Trail South Trailhead is a dog-friendly hiking area located in Oakhurst, California, in beautiful Mariposa County — the gateway to Yosemite National Park. Rated 4.7/5 on Google (364 reviews).

Lewis Creek Trail

Oakhurst

The Lewis Creek National Scenic Trail to Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls is a 3.7 mile out and back trail located near Oakhurst that features waterfalls, beautiful spring flora and is rated as moderate.

Lookout Trail

Truckee

Hiking in and around Northstar California is a fun way to spend your days in the mountains. The views, scenery and fresh air are always refreshing.

Meiss Meadow SNO-Park

South Lake Tahoe

Meiss Meadow SNO-Park is located on the north side of Highway 88 near Carson Pass. Recommended Activities: Cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snow play. No snowmobiles. The SNO-Park program provides winter recreation at locations along the Sierra Nevada.

Miners Ravine Trail

Roseville

Miners Ravine Trail, a popular outdoor destination in Roseville and Granite Bay within Placer County, offers a delightful experience for dog owners seeking a scenic adventure with their furry companions.

New Melones Lake

Sonora

New Melones Dam and Reservoir are part of the Central Valley Project - New Melones Unit operated by the Bureau of Reclamation, located 60 miles upstream on the Stanislaus River from the confluence of the San Joaquin River.

North to Vista

Tahoe City

The Barker Pass North to Vista Point is a dog-friendly trail is open to hikers and equestrians and is 3.5 miles round trip. This part of the TRT is also...

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.

Palisades Tahoe

Olympic Valley

Palisades Tahoe, located in Olympic Valley, Placer County, is a premier all-season resort in Gold Country. This dog-friendly destination offers a plethora of activities for furry companions and their owners to enjoy together.

Pinecrest Lake

Pinecrest

Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail in Pinecrest, Tuolumne County, offers a picturesque and moderately easy hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Point Defiance Trail

Truckee

The Point Defiance Trail in Truckee, Nevada County, offers a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Rayhouse Road / Road 40 Trail

Rumsey

You start out by crossing the low water bridge, and turning right, following the road.

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.

Round Valley SNO-Park

Arnold

Round Valley SNO-Park is located on Highway 207 (Mt. Reba Road), just north of Highway 4.

Shirley Canyon Trail

Olympic Valley

You are welcome to bring your dog with you on your hike at Palisades Tahoe. Please be sure to bring a leash as all dogs must be leashed while riding in the aerial tram and inside any buildings or facilities.

Spicer SNO-Park

Arnold

Spicer SNO-Park is located on the south side of Highway 4 at Spicer Road. The park features snowmobile trails to Union and Utica Reservoirs, Summit and Elephant Rock Lakes, and the Spicer Reservoir Power House.

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.

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.

Tahoe Tails and Trails

South Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Tails and Trails in South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County, California Wine Country, is a premier destination for dog owners seeking top-notch care for their furry companions.

Taylor Creek

South Lake Tahoe

Taylor Creek is located on the west side of Highway 89, just north of Camp Richardson Road. Overnight camping is not allowed. Leashed pets are permitted at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and on the trails.

Tenaya Loop Trail

Oakhurst

The Tenaya Loop Trail, located adjacent to Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp, offers a delightful stroll through nature's beauty. This scenic trail is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for your leisurely walk.

Trail of the Survivors

Pinecrest

"Trail of the Survivors in Pinecrest, Tuolumne County, is a dog-friendly .25 mile trail that offers a glimpse into the resilience of trees in the Gold Country region.

Western States Pioneer Express

Auburn

Specializing in dog-friendly listings, they present the Western States Pioneer Express Recreation Trail, a captivating 9-mile round trip trail near Auburn in Placer County. This popular out-and-back trail offers a moderate challenge, attracting hikers, bikers, and horseback riders alike.

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.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

Before you bring your dog to Yosemite National Park, read up on the rules so you won't be disappointed.

Balancing Rock Nature trail

Meeks Bay

Balancing Rock Nature Trail at D. L. Bliss State Park. 0.4 miles.

Betsy Mine trail

Nevada City

Betsy Mine Trl at Empire Mine State Historic Park. 0.2 miles.

Bluestone Meadow Farm

Placerville

Bluestone Meadow Farm, located in the Sierra foothills of Placerville, is a haven for both families and their furry companions. This farm upholds the rich...

Bridgeview trail

Auburn

Bridgeview Trl at Auburn State Recreation Area. 0.8 miles.

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.

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.

Coffer Dam trail

Auburn

Coffer Dam Trl at Auburn State Recreation Area. 0.5 miles.

Coldstream Valley Road

Soda Springs

Coldstream Valley Road at Donner Memorial State Park. 2.5 miles.

Conlon Mine trail

Nevada City

Conlon Mine Trl at Empire Mine State Historic Park. 0.4 miles.

Coyote Pond Park

Lincoln

Coyote Pond Park is a 24.5-acre park in Lincoln, Placer County that features a play structure, picnic area, dog-friendly trail system, and pond.

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.

Dam road

Soda Springs

Dam Rd at Donner Memorial State Park. 0.2 miles.

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.

Delaware Access road

Echo Lake

Delaware Access Rd at Washoe Meadows State Park. 0.2 miles.

Donner Summit

Truckee

Donner Summit is located on the south side of I-80 at the Castle Peak exit beyond Boreal Inn. Ski trails are on the north side of the freeway. Land adjoining the SNO-Park site is private property.

Dragoon Gulch Trail

Sonora

The relatively new Dragoon Gulch Trail system was built with the help of many individuals and agencies. Starting at Woods Creek Park, the trail system creates a 2.5-mile loop.

Fairy Falls Trailhead

Truckee

The Spenceville Wildlife and Recreation Area is comprised of miles of hiking trails. The elevation of the area varies from 200 to 1200 feet.

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.

Foresthill Divide loop trail

Auburn

Foresthill Divide Loop Trl at Auburn State Recreation Area. 10.6 miles.

Glenshire Lake

Truckee

Glenshire Lake, located in Truckee, Nevada County, is a serene destination offering a picturesque loop trail perfect for families and dog owners alike.

Gold Country Inn Angels Camp

Angels Camp

Gold Country Inn Angels Camp is a charming accommodation option in historic Angels Camp, located on Highway 49 in Calaveras County.

Goldbud Farms

Placerville

In the picturesque Gold Country of El Dorado County, Goldbud Farms is a haven for fruit enthusiasts and dog lovers alike. This family-owned farm is renowned for its bountiful harvest of the juiciest cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, pears, and apples.

Hooverville Orchards

Placerville

Hooverville Orchards in Placerville, El Dorado County, is a dog-friendly haven for fruit enthusiasts and furry companions alike.

Horsetail Falls

Twin Bridges

Horsetail Falls, a Tahoe-area landmark visible from Highway 50 at Twin Bridges, offers a thrilling adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions.

Hikes near Gold Country

Hikes near Gold Country near me..

Hikes near Gold Country

Hikes near Gold Country

Featured hikes

Other hikes

More Adventures in Gold Country