Cordelia visiting Yosemite National Park, photo by: Charlie Kelly
Heads up: you will once again need reservations to visit Yosemite National Park this summer, whether its for day-tripping, camping or lodging. But no big deal, just keep checking on protocols and procedures so you don’t travel all that way just to be locked out. At any rate, you don’t even need to enter the park to get a eyeful of scenery in Mariposa County, which is bisected by highway 140 leading to the park’s El Portal entrance. more »
All images courtesy of Tenaya Lodge
The English proverb ‘let sleeping dogs lie” might have been the right advice back in the 13th century, but certainly doesn’t apply when your pup wakes up in a beautifully appointed room at Yosemite’s Tenaya Lodge or in the privacy of one of 50 two-bedroom dog-friendly Explorer Cabins, surrounded by wide open spaces. 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 »
You’ll find dog-lovers and dog-friendly Yosemite lodging options throughout the region. To review them all, visit the lodging page on Yosemite.com, choose the general type of accommodation you prefer – hotels and motels, bed and breakfasts, cabin rentals or camping. Then use the Advanced Filter to show pet-friendly options inside and outside of the park. You can also use the feature to choose what area you would like to stay, from Yosemite Valley to Wawona and Fish Camp to Mariposa. more »
Yosemite National Park is a small (but mighty) part of Mariposa County. The rest of the Yosemite Mariposa realm is all-in with doggo-loving culture. From historic Gold Country towns to the surrounding national forest lands, furry comrades are abundantly welcomed. Dog-friendly lodging, hikes, water activities and more will fill your days with vacation rewards.
Revved-up dogs can go APD (all-paw-drive) in the Sierra National Forest, featuring five designated wilderness areas within its expansive boundary. more »
Kayla at Turtle Bay
Heading north out of Sacramento on Interstate 5, the goal is to base camp in Redding, the Shasta Cascade's largest city. One of the top sights includes the iconic Sundial Bridge, spanning the Sacramento River. It bisects a paved, 16-mile, dog-friendly trail that eventually leads to Shasta Dam. Redding prides itself as “California’s Trail Capital,” with 225 miles of trails within a 15-mile radius of town. Search trails and download a map here. 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 »
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 »
Kayla hiking on the trails near the Sundial Bridge
March is perhaps the prettiest and most temperate month of the year in Redding, a Northern California city that can warm up in summer (although there are some fabulous lakes where you can always cool off). With hills in vibrant-green mode and orchards bursting with pink-and-white blossoms, you’ll enjoy some great scenery along with your dog hike. more »
Yep, they’re open! California’s 19 Sno-Park sites, most in the Tahoe basin but some farther afield on the flanks of the Sierra, are white oases for winter fun. Jointly maintained by CalTrans, the USDA Forest Service and other agencies, they offer plowed parking and trails, some groomed, where you can ski, snowshoe and hike with your dog. Some offer snowmobile trails and sledding hills, as well.
Check the individual area you are interested in by going to the Sno-Parks website and scroll down to find your favorites. more »