Maya and Loretta hike Mt. Tam
Photo Credit: Dave Kendrick
Sure, there are many open-space tracts in Marin County where you and your dog can hike without being tied together. But there are more that offer big rewards in terms of scenery, even if your tail-wagger has to stay leashed. The Marin Municipal Water District maintains seven reservoirs, most within the Mount Tamalpais watershed, that make for great outings. You won’t run out of places to roam, as dogs are allowed to accompany you on most of the 130 miles of trails and unpaved roads on district lands. more »
Loki in Santa Cruz. Photo Credit: Kim Williams
Just a short hop south of the Bay Area, Santa Cruz County is diverse and exceedingly dog-friendly. Variety is the name of the game when it comes to dog-friendly lodging and dining—as well as other options for a yappy, outdoor-centric getaway. Here are some suggestions to get tails a’wagging. more »
Photo Credit: Nathan Kendall
Lake Tahoe is at its glorious best in summer, but you have to be a very early riser to get a parking spot at a dog-friendly beach on weekends. Our advice: Sleep in, then head for High Camp, the high-altitude recreation complex at Squaw Valley USA, where a pool, hot tub, roller rink, limitless hiking options and plenty of free parking await. There are two ways up: the dog-friendly Shirley Lake Trail or the iconic (and dog-friendly) aerial tram. more »
Sunol Regional Wilderness. Photo Credit: @rufiosf
Don’t come to Oakland or the Tri-Valley without your hiking shoes! You’ll need them, along with a leash, to explore open-space preserves more »
Photo courtesy Tahoe South Maybe you knew about these dog-friendly South Shore options—or maybe not. All are worth checking out next time you visit with your four-legged friend. more »
This in-between time of year, when snowfall in the mountains is still light or nonexistent, is a great time for one last hike in the high country with your four-legged friends. Check conditions before you go, come prepared for changing weather, wear waterproof boots, keep an eye to the sky, bring water for yourself and your dog, pack snowshoes just in case—and enjoy. Here are five favorite rambles not far off of Interstate 80.
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Photo Credit: Lisa Perlman
Dying to get out on “Big Blue” with your pup?
Tahoe Keys Boat Rentals and its affiliate locations will fix you up with a dog-friendly boat (and a “boat butler” captain, if needed) for exploring scenic Emerald Bay or simply cruising along the shore.
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Photo: Laura M.
DogTrekker Laura M. was visiting Tahoe recently with her two travel-loving dogs and her mountain biking husband. While waiting to collect him and his bike from a Tahoe trail adventure, she decided to hang out with her furry companions near the staging area at the dog-loving Tunnel Creek Café.
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Captain chillin' in Tahoe. Photo Credit: Garrett (CC)
Whether there’s lots of snow or not a flake at lake level, your pup will appreciate a winter break at Northern California’s favorite playground as much as you will. The wild card is weather, so be prepared to embrace whatever conditions Mother Nature throws your way. Here are some of our favorite ways to play with our pups at Lake Tahoe.
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Get away from it all in Tahoe. Carolyn Capitolo (CC)
The Sierra Nevada has already received its first dustings of snow, which means it’s time to lay plans for a winter visit to Big Blue. You’ll beat the crowds (and higher holiday prices) by planning a Tahoe visit before Dec. 15 or after the New Year’s holiday. November is also a great time to check out new digs, and we have some suggestions.
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