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.

Seven best dog beaches on the Northern California coast

Northern California's coastline is packed with dog-friendly beaches worth visiting. From Baker Beach with its Golden Gate Bridge views to off-leash Carmel Beach and the sandy cliffs of Fort Funston, these spots are unforgettable.

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Orli La Jolla

Orli La Jolla is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of La Jolla Village that welcomes dogs. Guests enjoy modern rooms with upscale touches, a pet pampering package upgrade, and easy walking access to beaches, restaurants, galleries and shops.

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The ultimate dog-friendly itinerary in Greater Palm Springs

Greater Palm Springs is a sun-soaked playground for dogs and their people. This itinerary covers dog-friendly dining at spots like Boozehounds and Wilma and Frieda's, desert trail hikes and craft breweries where wagging tails are always welcome. Planning the ultimate…

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Winter hikes in California: A DogTrekker guide

While winter means snowflakes elsewhere, California's warmer destinations make for quieter, dog-friendly trail days. Four best-in-show playgrounds to explore with your pup this season—from coastal Mendocino and Greater Ontario to Redding's Sacramento River trails and the fee-free East Bay Regional…

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As always, Leave Only Paw Prints

Wherever your California adventures lead, remember to Leave Only Paw Prints. Keep your dog leashed where required, respect wildlife, pack out everything you bring in, and help preserve trails and beaches for future generations.

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Breaking news from the Bay Area

Great news for Bay Area dog owners. The East Bay Regional Park District has dropped dog fees in 2025, giving pups free access to 73 parks with 1,250 miles of trails across Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Pleasant Hill makes…

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Follow the sun to Greater Ontario

Greater Ontario, or GOCAL, is an under-the-radar Southern California gem for dog-friendly travel. Hike San Gabriel Mountain trails, shop at Victoria Gardens with your pup, treat them to a Doggie Delights cupcake, and settle into one of several pet-welcoming hotels.

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Making tracks in Coastal Mendocino

Mendocino County draws dog lovers with old-growth redwoods, dramatic coastline and genuinely pet-passionate lodging. Hike the Big River Trail, walk the Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, then check into the Little River Inn.

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Redding: So many places to roam and stay

Redding's dog-friendly hotels put you within minutes of 225 miles of trails. The Sheraton at the Sundial Bridge serves dog dishes at its restaurant, and nearby routes offer year-round hiking for pups. Redding's dog-friendly accommodations offer easy access to one…

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Are flea pills harming your dog?

Popular oral flea and tick medications like Bravecto, NexGard and Simparica have drawn FDA warnings for potential neurological side effects in dogs. While serious reactions remain rare, veterinarians recommend discussing alternatives with your vet, especially for dogs with pre-existing conditions.

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Winter and spring pet activities in Yosemite Mariposa County

Yosemite welcomes leashed dogs on paved roads and paths near iconic landmarks like Bridalveil Fall and Glacier Point. Beyond the park, the towns and trails of Mariposa County offer even more pet-friendly hikes, lodging, and dining worth discovering.

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This snow season, sample California’s best

From SNO-Parks and Big Bear Lake to Lake Tahoe and Mammoth, California delivers serious winter fun for dogs and their people. Snowshoe through national forest, sled powder-covered meadows, and retreat to pet-friendly cabins and lodges across the Sierra Nevada.

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Five winter safety tips for dogs

Winter travel with your dog calls for extra preparation. These five essential safety tips cover cold-weather gear, paw protection, frostbite prevention and more to keep your pup happy and healthy in the snow.

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Make tracks in majestic Mammoth

Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra is a top winter basecamp for dog lovers. Pet-friendly lodges, cross-country ski trails, snowshoe routes and cozy cabins make this mountain town ideal for snowy getaways with your pup.

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Ruffin’ it in snowy Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe rolls out the red carpet for dogs in winter, with plowed walking trails along the lakeshore, cross-country ski centers that welcome pups, pet-friendly hotels and restaurants, and wide-open wilderness to explore on snowshoes or on foot.

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Visit California’s dog-friendly SNO-Parks

California's 18 SNO-Parks offer affordable winter access to stunning Forest Service lands for snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, and even skijoring with your dog. A season pass costs just $40 and covers all locations from November through May.

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How to help Southern California in this crisis

As wildfires devastate Southern California, the DogTrekker team shares ways to support displaced families and their pets. Donate to organizations like Pasadena Humane, SPCA LA and Best Friends Animal Society. As we witness the devastation caused by the wildfires sweeping…

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Visit Big Bear offers LA County evacuee lodging help

Visit Big Bear has coordinated discounted lodging for LA County wildfire evacuees, with many properties waiving pet fees and providing extra supplies. Contact them for updated availability and food voucher information.

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