Dakota at Mendocino Grove. Photo by Jennifer Brierley.
California travelers know fall is the ripe time to pack the hiking boots for an adventure in Northern California’s Mendocino County. As the barometer slides, the fog pulls away, corks pop and nature hits its seasonal migration stride.
Here is the best of dog-friendly Mendocino County in the fall:
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Mendocino sunset. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Mendocino County is a DogTrekker favorite for so many reasons. That is why we have partnered with so many hotels, inns, resorts, cabins and glamping properties over the years.
You will find accommodations to fit any taste and budget. The Stanford Inn by the Sea, Little River Inn, Noyo Harbor Inn, Sheep Dung Cottages, Baechtel Creek Inn, Beachcomber Properties and Mendocino Grove luxury camping are great examples of the diversity of choices. more »
Maya hiking the Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail. Photo by Dave Kendrick.
Lace up your hiking boots, load your pup into the car and get a grip on your leash: you’ll need it when you see how excited she’ll become upon encountering a multitude of new sights and smells in dog-friendly Mendocino County. The weather is near-perfect both along the coast, as well as inland. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks and as always, Leave Only Paw Prints™. more »
Paddle the Big River. Photo by Catch A Canoe & Bicycles Too.
Coastal Mendocino County is stitched to rivers and ocean, but visitors aren’t restricted to just looking at the water. It’s also possible to get out on it—with your dog. Two premier options: the Water Dog Package at Little River Inn Resort & Spa, which offers river nature tours on the Albion River, and Catch A Canoe & Bicycles Too, which has been outfitting paddlers on the Big River since 1972. more »
Skunk Train rail bikes. Photo by Skunk Train.
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.
Photo: Brendan McGuigan more »
Waterfront dining at Noyo Harbor Inn. Photo by Brendan McGuigan.
Many dog-friendly restaurant decks and patios in Mendocino County will contribute to making your trip more memorable. A favorite: the second-story Harbor View Bistro and Bar at the Noyo Harbor Inn, overlooking a large marina in one direction and the Noyo River in the other. You can also dine indoors with your dog at our vegan/vegetarian choice, Ravens Restaurant at the Stanford Inn; or have dinner outdoors under a tent at the Little River Inn. more »
Image courtesy of Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
In Yosemite, you’ll embark on a getaway you and your little buddy will never forget. Together, you can explore the wonders of the Sierra region at a full-service resort that offers 75 acres of outdoor recreation and accommodations. From Four Diamond lodge rooms to two-bedroom Explorer Cabins, this is a dream resort destination in one of the prettiest wilderness settings anywhere. more »
Dogs & families love Apple Hill
While parts of El Dorado County were impacted by the Caldor Fire in August and September, the Apple Hill Growers region north of Placerville (about 45 minutes from Sacramento on Highway 50) was spared. It’s 50-odd member farms, wineries and other establishments (almost all of them dog-friendly) kicked off the 2021 season in early September with regional events, individual grower events, kids’ activities and pumpkin patches galore. more »
Take your pup to the Clarksburg Wine Trail
Just 15 miles south of downtown Sacramento, the scenic Sacramento River Delta opens up, city life slows to a crawl and the Clarksburg American Viticultural Area offers all kind of dog-friendly, small-batch wine-tasting experiences, along with a few good places to eat. If you’re not from Sacramento, it’s probably all new to you, so take a leisurely drive of discovery and find out more. more »
Image courtesy of Visit Folsom
Just up Highway 50 from Sacramento, the city of Folsom is a superb dog-friendly destination with a handsomely renovated Old Town just a block or two from the Sacramento River. Cuddle up in dog-friendly lodging and spend a weekend exploring with your four-legged friend. Get your bearings on Sutter Street (the main drag), where you can soak up some local motion at a dog-friendly taproom or restaurant. more »