DogTrekker readers are drawn to captivating Mendocino County, and for good reason. Few places feature more genuinely dog-friendly resorts set so close to old-growth redwoods, crashing waves and remarkable recreation – including well-known stops like Mendocino Headlands State Park and more remote jewels like Greenwood Beach State Park. Crisp winter weekends are the perfect time to visit with furry friends, as trails and hotels tend to be even more peaceful than usual.
Team DogTrekker loves the Big River Trail, which includes a 10-mile haul road linking Big River Beach with Mendocino Woodlands State Park. California State Parks oversees more than 7,300 acres of gorgeous landscapes and wildlife habitat surrounding these trails. Don’t miss the Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail, a newer route that repurposes a former logging road closed for more than a century. The paved, ADA-accessible path on the outskirts of Fort Bragg promises five miles of spectacular views. You’ll also find history displays, wildlife watching, restrooms and benches made by local artists. Pick up the trail at entry points near Glass Beach or north of the Noyo River Bridge.
The northern end of the Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail connects to MacKerricher State Park. More than 90 species of birds live and play in this wonderland of dunes, bluffs, prairie and wetlands. While dogs can’t visit some park beaches, leashed pups are welcome on many paths. The multi-use Haul Road Coastal Trail traces a former train corridor and has wheelchair-accessible sections.
Mendocino’s incredibly dog-passionate lodging properties make visits even more memorable. The Little River Inn, featuring well-appointed cabins, convenient beach access and Pacific views, has welcomed four-legged guests for more than 80 years. A few miles north, the sustainably minded Stanford Inn has also catered to dogs for decades. The serene wellness resort is tucked within two miles of four trail-lined state parks (including the Big River Haul Road) and offers on-site canoe rentals with seats for pets.
Fort Bragg’s Noyo Harbor Inn is a Craftsman-style treasure with easy access to trails, beaches, galleries and the dog-friendly Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. On the north side of Fort Bragg, three cozy properties greet pups with generous welcome kits. The Beachcomber Motel and Surf & Sand Lodge share a dog play area, while the nearby Beach House Inn overlooks pretty Pudding Creek.
