DogTrekkers know Redding as “California’s Trail Capital,” thanks to 225 miles of trails found within 15 miles of town. Most of those miles welcome furry best friends, and many are within minutes of Redding’s lodging properties. From the Sacramento River Trail, which samples the region’s diverse urban and rural landscapes, to flat paths winding through oak woodlands at Clover Creek Preserve, your biggest challenge will be choosing where to explore first.
Some of Redding’s most popular pet-friendly trails, including the Sacramento River Trail and the Arboretum Loop Trail at Turtle Bay Exploration Park, unfold near the river. Northeast of downtown, the low-key Churn Creek trail system loops 4.5 miles through pine, oak and willow stands. For a more active outing, try the Westside Trail. These paths overlook Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen, the Trinity range and Redding itself.
The Blue Gravel Mine Trail combines hiking and history. Rambling through a tree-shaded canyon with a seasonal creek, this route glitters with spring wildflowers and butterflies. Throughout the year, keep an eye out for traces of the Blue Gravel Mine, a gold mine once operated by the city of Redding. To the north, this trail ends near coffee shops, smoothie shops and cafes at the Holiday Market shopping center.
