Kayla boards the Skunk Train
Experience classic Mendocino County on the California Western Railroad’s Redwood Route, a logging-era line established in 1885. Pungent odors produced by early-1900s motorcars earned the route its Skunk Train nickname—those units ran on gasoline and burned crude oil to keep passengers warm.
Today, the Skunk Train’s refurbished (and very dog-friendly!) steam- and diesel electric-powered cars still showcase old-growth forests. more »
Ride the famous Skunk Train, Mendocino County
California Western Railroad lines have wound through majestic Mendocino County redwoods for 135 years. Affectionately known as the “Skunk Train,” this celebrated attraction welcomes travelers and their four-legged friends on five historic trains traveling two unforgettable routes.
The experience anchors an array of dog-friendly adventures on California’s rugged North Coast, from sampling local brews in Fort Bragg, to hiking more than 20 state parks, beaches and reserves dotting Mendocino County. Punch your ticket and start planning today.
Here are the latest stories about the Skunk Train:
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Kayla sniffing out the Redwoods
Step back in time for a magical ride through the redwoods on the world-famous Skunk Train. According to Chief Skunk Robert Pinoli, "In our 136 years of service, we've transported millions of passengers. We think it's high time that our beloved canine companions should be able to join in the fun." Here are some of the outstanding experiences you can ride, from classic daily trips to Magical Christmas, Easter and Pumpkin Express outings. more »
Please support our sponsors
The Little River Inn brings back its very popular Water Dog package at the Little River Inn Resort & Spa, perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. You’ll enjoy a two-night stay in a pet-friendly guest room, a Kayak Albion River Nature Tour, a goodie bag with dog treats and info on where to hike and boat with dogs—plus a $120 dinner voucher good for takeout dining and in-person outdoor dining under the big white tent! more »
Russian River Adventures
Nine miles. Four to six hours. Countless tail wags, big smiles. A float or paddle on a secluded section of the Russian River is a DogTrekker must-do for visitors to Sonoma County. With your water-crazy dog aboard in a custom-made SOAR, inflatable canoe from Russian River Adventures, you’ll explore a section of the river downstream from Healdsburg and linger at swimming holes and beaches along the way. Boats are limited this year, so book soon. more »
Upper Sacramento Ditch Trail - courtesy of Bureau of Land Mgmt.
The upper and lower ditch trails once brought water to 19th-century gold miners. There are lots of relics of the era to see if you know how and where to look! While the Upper Trail is a hefty 9 miles, the Lower section is only 2.8. Both are rated easy to moderate.
The Upper trail, starting near the Shasta Dam visitor parking lot, stretches to the trailhead at the end of Walker Mine Road. more »
Enter Today!
Historically known as the quintessential California beach vacation, Santa Cruz County is the best place to put your paws in the sand. Enter the Let’s Cruz Safely DogCation® Getaway for a chance to win a two-night stay at the Chaminade Resort, where you and your pup can embrace your mutual sense of adventure.
In addition to the two-nights, the package includes two tickets to pet-friendly Roaring Camp Railroads; $25 gift certificate to dog-friendly Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing; two O’Neill brand face masks, Santa Cruz stickers, and other Santa Cruz swag.
Enter Today. more »
Theo at Its Beach, photo by: @theothebulldog
It’s no secret that California Highway 1 (aka the Pacific Coast Highway) is considered one of the most scenic routes in the country. All the better, then, that it leads to Santa Cruz, arguably one of the most scenic sun-and-surf towns in the state. You’ll love it there and so will your dog, given all the fun activities you can do together. more »
Dog-sailing on Big River. Photo courtesy of Catch A Canoe
Leaving Highway 101 at Cloverdale (Sonoma county), and heading on CA-128 West, this scenic road offers up many delights, from the Boonville General Store (think deli goodies from pizza to soups and sandwiches) in southern Mendocino County, to Leggett, on the Eel River in the north. In between? Let us count just a few of the ways along this 55-mile stretch of road to make your DogTrekking trip memorable. more »
“Is Yosemite dog-friendly?” That’s one of the questions most asked by DogTrekker readers. The answer depends on how “Yosemite” is defined. We at DogTrekker define it not only as inside the park, but dog-passionate Mariposa County, affectionately known as the "Mother of Counties" because it initially encompassed one-fifth of the state of California, Including Yosemite National Park.
Inside the park, leashed dogs are allowed on most fully paved roads, sidewalks and bicycle paths, unless there is a sign that specifically forbids them. more »