Mt. Shasta / Photo: @crazycoco_bcmix
If you crave a change of scenery, you’ll get it many times over in the eight-county Shasta Cascade region. The lightly traveled North State is a treasure trove of mountainous scenery, history and small towns that charm. What’s not to like? A paws-up warning: Dog access is restricted, to various degrees, at the places set forth below. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a woofing good time with your four-legged companion, even where leashes are required. Here we go with some suggestions. more »
Upper McCloud Falls / Photo: @cjthedalmation
OK, it hasn’t been a very wet winter. Nevertheless, the many waterfalls within easy striking distance of Redding will be gushing at peak flow in March and April. For a quick taste, visit Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir. It’s right off Interstate 5 via a short path, has a generous parking lot, a viewing platform for photo opps and a cave beneath the falls for sensory thrills (your dog may or may not want to go there, so be alert!) more »
Shasta Dam / Photo: @ohana_thehusky
Like to hike? You’re in luck in the Trail Capital of California, as Redding has so aptly branded itself. The city boasts some 80 miles of trails within its city limits and hundreds more within a 20-mile radius of its core. A heads up: The 2018 Carr Fire caused damage to many area trails. Repairs are still in progress and trails subject to intermittent closures for bridge reconstruction and debris removal, so check before you go for updates.
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Dog-Friendly Trails in Gilroy!
Gilroy is a pet-welcoming destination that makes a great getaway any time of year. The "Garlic Capital of the World" features outstanding restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, outlet shopping, and plenty of outdoor adventures for you and your four-legged friends.
Start by booking a pet-friendly hotel room at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn, Motel 6 Gilroy or Quality Inn & Suites Gilroy so you can stay and play for more than just one day. Then make your first stop the California Welcome Center Gilroy (in Gilroy Premium Outlets) for helpful maps, valuable coupons, and insider tips to make the most of your stay.
Taste your way along the
Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail, where many wineries like Kirigin Cellars, Satori Cellars, and Sarah's Vineyards welcome dogs (and may even have some special treats waiting for them!). Take a stroll through historic Downtown Gilroy and indulge in the town's signature spice at Garlic City Cafe. There are many other
outstanding restaurants that also welcome dogs, from authentic Mexican food at Los Pericos and Victoria's Mexican Restaurant to Asian cuisine at Ginger Cafe and Saigon 2 Siam Bistro.
Get out and enjoy the great outdoors on
dog-friendly hiking trails at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch Park, Mt. Madonna, and the Uvas Creek Levee. You can even meet up with other four-legged friends at the Heartland Dog Park, which has separate areas for large dogs and small dogs.
Plan your great Gilroy getaway today at
VisitGilroy.com!
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The Contra Costa County town of Concord calls itself a “Northern California Original,” and it’s easy to see why. With a booming craft brew scene, creative dining options and a thriving music scene (it’s the birthplace of jazz great Dave Brubeck and the Concord record label), quick access to thousands of acres of open space and massive Mount Diablo looming in its backyard, it’s an East Bay oasis for outdoorsy types. more »
Lafayette Reservoir / Photo: EBMUD
While many visitors to the Concord/East Bay are familiar with the expansive East Bay Regional Park District, the preserves managed by the East Bay Municipal Utility District are off-the-grid for most. Yet two recreation areas surrounding reservoirs offer plenty of sights, sounds and sniffs to keep your tail-wagger engaged, although she’s not allowed in the water. more »
Zoe and DJ Running at Fairmont Ridge. Photo: marymactavish (cc)
If all 1,250 miles of trails within the East Bay Regional Park District stretched in a straight line up and down the West Coast, they’d reach from San Diego to Seattle. Instead, the pathways dip and dive over 120,536 open-space acres within a network of 65 parks enjoyed by hikers, bikers and equestrians, as well as DogTrekkers grateful for the opportunity to disconnect from the leash while away from developed areas. As you will see as you read on, many are close to the town of Concord. More... more »
The Cove Oasis Loop, nestled at the base of the Southern Santa Rosa Mountains,offers the perfect stroll for families and their four-legged friends. The mostly flat, gravel path begins at the top of the levee, a few steps into the Cove Oasis, a 114-acre open space set aside by the city. more »
One of the more popular spots for four-legged hikers, Mission Creek Preserve offers more than 17 miles of dog-friendly trails through stunning desert scenery. Far removed from the bustle of modern life, Mission Creek Preserve lets you see the Coachella Valley’s natural side. more »
The Homestead Trail that snakes up the side of Shadow Mountain to a giant illuminated cross is thought to be a spiritual trek for some, as well as a quiet spot to meditate above it all. It’s a perfect trail for a sunrise hike with spectacular views from just about anywhere along the way. more »