Ruff-ing it in Shasta County

By: DogTrekker Staff

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Hiking dog-friendly Whiskeytown Falls trails. Photo by Choose Redding.

The community of Redding anchors Shasta County, and it’s the gateway to recreational opportunities across the Shasta Cascade region. Set 150 miles from Sacramento, this Northern California charmer offers both comfortable travel amenities and easy trail access. Discover more than 225 miles of trails within 15 minutes of town, including one that crosses the Sacramento River on the 720-foot Sundial Bridge. From trail-hopping to houseboating to wandering botanical gardens, you’ll find dog-friendly fun in every direction.

Get the dish on Shasta County’s best at the Shasta Cascade Welcome Center, located south of Redding in Anderson. Then, wander the trails at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. A 3,500-acre lake here is a favorite of kayakers, and well-behaved pups can earn an official Whiskeytown B.A.R.K. Ranger tag. Visit the park’s visitor center for details. Shasta Lake is another top watersports spot, and it’s popular for boating excursions. Ask local outfitters about pet-friendly vessels. Take a free tour of the adjacent Shasta Dam, or enjoy the scenery between here and the Sundial Bridge along the smooth, 17-mile Sacramento River National Recreation Trail.

DogTrekker readers love Redding’s convenient, pup-friendly hotels. The Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge overlooks the city’s legendary landmark and welcomes dogs with special bedding, crates, collars and bowls for use during a stay. There are also spirited Yappy Hour events and a dedicated dog menu at Mosaic, the property’s signature restaurant.

Nearby, the Red Lion Hotel Redding and Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn are also minutes from downtown Redding and dog-friendly highlights like Turtle Bay Exploration Park and the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Don’t miss the 128-acre Clover Creek Preserve, where trails wind through peaceful oak woodlands and meadows.