Our DogTrekker writers know dog-friendly California like your pup knows the treat jar—intimately and enthusiastically. Whether sniffing out beaches in San Diego, dog-friendly wineries in Sonoma, hiking trails in the Sierra, or cozy mountain cabins near Big Bear Lake, we're your trusted guides for dog travel. From bustling cities to hidden wilderness gems, we fetch reliable tips, insights, and local secrets to make traveling with your four-legged friend effortless. Trust DogTrekker to lead you and your pup to tail-wagging dog travel adventures across dog-friendly California.

Explore the San Mateo coast like a pro

The San Mateo Coast packs 60 miles of rugged Pacific shoreline into one compact region, and much of it welcomes dogs. Expect off-leash beaches, tide pools, wild surf, and foggy coastal magic just an hour from San Francisco and Silicon…

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5 California waterfall hikes your dog needs to try

Finding waterfall hikes that welcome dogs takes local knowledge. These five California trails deliver the full package: big cascading falls, great scenery and dog-friendly rules, from the coastal tidefall at Alamere to the triple falls along the McCloud River.

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Five most dangerous plants in your yard

Many popular California landscape plants can seriously harm dogs if chewed or swallowed. Sago palms, oleander, and other common ornamentals pose risks ranging from stomach upset to liver failure. Here are five of the most dangerous plants to keep out…

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Can the outdoors help your dog live longer?

New research from the Dog Aging Project suggests that regular outdoor activity may help dogs live longer, healthier lives. Scientists are finding that exercise, mental stimulation, and environmental variety all play a meaningful role in how dogs age.

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Forestville trail opens miles of dog-friendly adventure

The West County Regional Trail starts in Forestville and stretches 5.5 paved miles through vineyards and farms to Sebastopol, following an old railway corridor. Connect to the Joe Rodota Trail for 14 miles of continuous, dog-friendly walking across Sonoma County.

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Wild Blue Dogs camp at Tahoe? You lucky dog!

Wild Blue Dogs' fall camp in South Lake Tahoe, September 13-19, pairs bonding activities like agility, nose work and kayaking with certified trainers. All proceeds support canine cancer research, and you'll enjoy quiet Tahoe beaches and great weather all week.

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New for you: DogTrekker’s ulti-mutt spring event guide

Spring brings a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from fun runs and beach festivals to wine tastings and costume parades. Many raise funds for animal welfare organizations, so you and your pup can play while making a positive…

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Beachcomber Properties BOGO winter specials

The Beachcomber properties in Fort Bragg are offering a midweek BOGO winter deal through March 2026. Book two nights and pay for one at the Beachcomber Motel, Beach House Inn, or Surf and Sand Lodge, and enjoy complimentary beach cruiser…

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Winter offers at Noyo Harbor Inn in Fort Bragg

Noyo Harbor Inn in Fort Bragg offers two winter specials through March 2026, including a weeknight rate starting at two hundred thirty-nine dollars and a third-night-free deal. Set along the Noyo River with dog-friendly rooms and a welcoming outdoor patio…

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Cozy up at the Little River Inn

Winter on the Mendocino coast means fewer crowds, dramatic storms and cozy stays at Little River Inn. Two seasonal specials make it even more tempting, and dog-friendly rooms plus heated dining cabanas mean your pup is part of every moment.

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New year, new adventures in Greater Palm Springs

Greater Palm Springs pairs dog-friendly desert hikes with sun-soaked patios and pet-welcoming hotels. Start the morning on the Bump and Grind Trail, stroll midcentury neighborhoods in the afternoon, then wind down at a brewery where your dog is always welcome.

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A Greater Palm Springs dog-friendly itinerary for four-legged fun

A dog-friendly day-and-night itinerary for Greater Palm Springs — morning trails at Whitewater or Homme/Adams, El Paseo strolling, Moorten Botanical Garden, pool-side afternoons, and patio dinners at Boozehounds or Jake's. Plus ideas to stretch it into a full weekend.

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Furry friend(ly) dining: Enjoy Greater Palm Springs dog-friendly restaurants

Greater Palm Springs is packed with dog-friendly patios where tails wag as happily as forks. From Boozehounds' dedicated dog menu to relaxed brunch spots with sunny sidewalk seating, this desert oasis makes dining with your four-legged foodie effortless.

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Lake Tahoe fall fun

Fall in Tahoe means golden aspens, glassy lake mornings, and thinning crowds. Base yourself in Truckee for the best leaf color and trail access, chase reflections at Spooner Lake, and enjoy shoulder-season dining before the short window of peak color…

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Lake Tahoe summer fun

Summer at North Lake Tahoe means long days on dog-friendly beaches like Kiva and Kings Beach, cool dips in the Truckee River, and alpine hikes with sweeping views. Patio meals in walkable mountain towns round out the perfect warm-weather getaway…

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Support Napa Humane with a calendar purchase

DogTrekker's beloved Maya graces the cover of Napa Humane's 2026 calendar after an outpouring of community votes cast in her honor. Purchase a copy to celebrate her legacy and support Napa Humane's mission to protect companion animals across the region.

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Spring forward at Lake Tahoe

Spring is Tahoe's overlooked shoulder season, and that's exactly why it works so well with a dog. Snow melts off the lower trails, crowds vanish, and the lake shifts through shades of blue while meltwater-fed rivers run fast through pine…

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Lake Tahoe: Winter fun with your dog

Winter in North Lake Tahoe brings fewer crowds, deep snow, and a landscape made for long walks with your dog. From Truckee's gritty main street to Kings Beach's quiet shoreline and Tahoe City's groomed Nordic trails, each community offers its…

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