Northern California leads the nation in the number of hotels certified by the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. The road to certification is long and rigorous, involving strict standards for energy efficiency, waste reduction, recycling and more. Choosing a dog-friendly LEED-certified property for your next DogTrekking expedition shows you care: It’s like giving Mother Earth a pat on the head and a scratch behind the ears.
Greenest of the green is Bardessono Hotel and Spa in the Napa County town of Yountville. It’s one of just a few LEED platinum-level hotels worldwide that has also tapped into geothermal energy. The property welcomes dogs with open arms — expect water bowls, plush dog beds, and treats at check-in. Yountville itself is a compact, walkable town, so you and your pup can stroll past Michelin-starred restaurants and tasting rooms without ever getting in the car.
LEED certification isn’t the only indicator that a hotel is working hard to reduce its environmental impact. Other, less costly programs also underscore commitment to sustainability. Among the eco-standouts is Inn Marin, first hotel in the state to be awarded certification at the Leadership level through the California Green Lodging Program. Its 70 pet-friendly rooms feature bamboo floors, recycled toilet paper, organic shampoos and all manner of energy conservation features. The large green lawn at the center of the smartly restored, motel-like property is the perfect place for canines and humans alike to stretch their legs and soak up some sunshine.
Moving “up the hill” to Lake Tahoe, eco-conscious DogTrekkers with well-socialized dogs can settle in and feel good about it at Gravity Haus, a contemporary-styled property on the outskirts of Truckee that has won many kudos for its green architecture and sustainable practices. The hotel sits close to trails and the downtown Truckee dining scene, making it easy to explore without racking up extra miles.
Staying at an eco-friendly hotel doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or dog-friendliness. These properties prove that sustainability and hospitality go hand in hand. When you book green, you’re supporting businesses that invest in the landscapes and communities you and your dog love to explore — and that’s a choice worth making.
