Dog stories
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.
East Bay Regional Parks: closed areas off-limits to dogs
After severe storms caused downed trees, flooding, and mudslides, most East Bay Regional Parks closed for safety. The Park District urges visitors and their dogs to stay out of closed areas due to hidden hazards.
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Happy New Year
Ring in the new year with fresh dog-friendly travel plans across California. DogTrekker.com has been revamped to help you find hikes, beaches, wineries, hotels, and more to enjoy with your furry family members throughout the state.
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A dog’s guide to New Year’s Eve
New Year's Eve can be stressful for dogs between fireworks, noisemakers, and party guests. Keep your pup safe by creating a quiet retreat, watching for sneaky treat-stealing, and never letting them outside when the midnight noise begins.
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Best dog-friendly lakes in California
California is loaded with dog-friendly lakes for swimming, fetching, and cooling off. From Lake Tahoe's alpine beaches to the warm waters of San Luis Reservoir and Big Bear Lake, here are the best spots for a water day with your…
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Five great California destinations for you and your dog
From the off-leash beaches of Carmel-by-the-Sea to the trails of Yosemite and Big Bear Lake, California is packed with dog-welcoming destinations. Here are five top spots where your pup will feel right at home.
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Why adopt an older dog?
Puppies get all the attention, but older dogs make wonderful companions. They're often already house-trained, calmer in new situations, and less expensive to care for. Adopting a senior dog saves a life and brings a loyal friend into yours.
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What to do near Wawona and The Redwoods
Wawona is a quieter side of Yosemite with dog-friendly trails, giant sequoias, and the historic Yosemite History Center. The Redwoods In Yosemite offers pet-friendly vacation rentals just five miles from the south gate, surrounded by towering trees.
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Relax on the river: Yosemite View Lodge
Family-owned Yosemite View Lodge sits along the Merced River just two miles from the park entrance. With pet-friendly rooms, river-view balconies, dog-friendly walking paths, indoor pools, and an on-site cocktail lounge, it makes an ideal base for any season.
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Paradise in the park: The Redwoods in Yosemite
The Redwoods In Yosemite offers over 110 vacation rentals inside the national park, with more than two dozen welcoming dogs. Each cabin features a full kitchen, outdoor deck, and easy access to pup-friendly trails right outside your door.
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Four-paw winter accommodations
Tenaya at Yosemite rolls out the red carpet for dogs with Fido Friendly Rooms, snowshoeing in the Sierra National Forest, and pampered pet packages. It is a true four-season resort where two-legged and four-legged guests feel equally at home.
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Fall moments await at Tenaya Lodge
Fall brings golden foliage and cooler weather to Yosemite, making it ideal to visit Tenaya Lodge with your dog. Hike Jackson Road, take a scenic train ride through Sierra National Forest, and soak in autumn magic.
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Concord Visitor Center Perro Costume Parade
The Concord Visitor Center hosted its first Perro Costume Contest and Parade at Salvio Pacheco Square. Dogs competed in categories like Best DIY Costume and Owner Dog Look-Alike, with proceeds benefiting Early Alert Canines.
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The story of Sid: A senior dog rescue (video)
Senior dog Sid was rescued from a shelter and entered Muttville's fospice program, where he spent his final year exploring, snuggling, and being loved. This touching video tells the story of his second chance at a good life.
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Join the DogTrekker challenge!
DogTrekker launched a challenge benefiting Saving Senior Dogs Week, donating $1,000 to help rescue organizations that focus on older dogs. Senior pups are the least likely to be adopted and most at risk in shelters, making this cause especially important.
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Sip and savor with your pup: Fall winery-trekking
Fall is prime time for dog-friendly wine tasting in California. Skip the crowds and pricey fees with laid-back visits to wineries near Sacramento, in Vacaville's Suisun Valley, and along Mendocino County's scenic Highway 101 and 128 wine roads.
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Temecula: A Southern California wine oasis
Temecula Valley wine country, about 60 miles north of San Diego, offers more than 40 dog-friendly wineries, relaxed Old Town dining, and welcoming lodging. With a Mediterranean climate year-round, it's a great getaway for you and your pup.
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Santa Clara County’s pet-friendly wine trail
The Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail stretches 30 miles between San Jose and Gilroy, with over 30 wineries and a rich history. Many tasting rooms welcome dogs, and a Wine Trail Passport makes repeat visits easy.
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Mend your mind and thrill your dog in Mendocino
Mendocino County's 12 wine-growing regions produce standout wines along Highways 101 and 128. Dogs are welcome at nearly every winery, tasting is often free, and the vibe is refreshingly casual. Plan a trek from Hopland to Anderson Valley and beyond.
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