High Desert
California's High Desert region offers rugged, wide-open landscapes perfect for adventurous dogs. Spanning Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, and Barstow, this Mojave Desert gateway features Mojave National Preserve trails, Joshua tree woodlands, and iconic Route 66 history stops.
Dog-friendly hiking abounds at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, where leashed dogs can enjoy trails with desert and lake views. The cooler months are ideal for long desert walks, and many local restaurants with outdoor patios welcome dogs. Pet-friendly hotels along I-15 make it a convenient base for exploring Joshua Tree National Park and BLM public lands.
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Stories about High Desert
DogTrekker® 15th anniversary
DogTrekker.com celebrates 15 years of helping California dog lovers travel together, supporting animal welfare groups and inspiring millions of readers since launching in June 2011. DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind -- whether at.
Not every California town loves your dog
Not every California town is dog-friendly. Breed bans, strict leash laws, hefty fines and park restrictions vary widely from city to city. Before you travel, check local ordinances so you and your pup don't get caught off guard.
Discover dog-friendly Bishop: Small town, big backyard
Bishop sits at 4,000 feet in the Eastern Sierra, surrounded by public lands perfect for dogs. With pet-friendly hotels, a dedicated dog park, patio dining, and trailheads steps away, it's a big draw for pups.
What makes Bishop a pup-lover’s paradise
Bishop is a high desert gem on Highway 395 where dogs are genuinely welcome. A central dog park, walkable downtown, pet-friendly dining patios and trails with off-leash options make this Eastern Sierra town a favorite among DogTrekker regulars.
On & off-leash adventures
Big Bear Lake offers seven miles of water plus 100 miles of hiking trails for dogs and their people. Kayak, paddleboard, and hike together, from easy shoreline strolls to the challenging Cougar Crest climb.
Five critical things to know about dogs and wildfires
California wildfire season poses serious risks to dogs, from poor air quality to emergency evacuations. Here are five critical steps to protect your pup, including limiting outdoor time, creating safe indoor spaces and preparing a go-bag. Let's talk about dogs and wildfires.
Three amazing dog-friendly road trips in California
Three dog-friendly California road trips worth taking: Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes through the Eastern Sierra, Jenner to Leggett along the coast, and Redding to Mount Shasta through volcanic country. Each route features pet-friendly stops and stunning scenery.
Bark Park in Susanville: dog-friendly stop in Lassen County
Bark Park in Susanville offers separate off-leash areas for large and small dogs, open dawn to dusk. This Lassen County community gem is a welcome rest stop for travelers with pups on road trips through northeastern California.
Best dog-friendly hiking trails in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake has over 100 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails through pine forests, high desert, and alpine meadows. From easy loops like Woodland Trail to the challenging climb up Cougar Crest, there's a route for every pup.
Top 5 dog-friendly adventures in the California deserts
From Joshua Tree's Barker Dam Trail to Anza-Borrego's palm oasis hike and Lake Cahuilla's shoreline, the California deserts serve up five outstanding adventures for dogs and their humans. Leash up and explore. Hike the Barker Dam Trail, Joshua Tree National Park While most.
Hit reset in the sunny Shasta Cascade region
The Shasta Cascade region spans eight Northern California counties filled with mountains, forests, rivers and high desert. For dog lovers, it means room to roam, small-town hospitality, swimming holes and long trails with dramatic volcanic scenery around every bend.
Modoc County: High desert fun for four-legged friends
Modoc County offers high-desert solitude near the Oregon and Nevada borders. Spot over 200 bird species at the wildlife refuge, soak with your dog at Surprise Valley Hot Springs, hike the Modoc National Forest and stargaze under wide-open skies.