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.

Ruffing it in Yosemite

Winter in Yosemite means quiet trails, frosty landscapes, and pup-friendly fun around every bend. Leashed dogs are welcome on paved roads and paths throughout the valley, and nearby lodges offer dog-friendly rooms perfect for warming up after a day of…

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Tahoe’s tail-waggin’ winter highlights 

Lake Tahoe in winter means plowed trails, snowshoeing with your dog, and even skijoring across snowy landscapes. With over 20 miles of cleared paths and pet-friendly lodges from Truckee to South Lake Tahoe, cold-weather fun comes easy here.

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California SNO-Parks: SNO many options for dog-friendly fun

California SNO-Parks are among DogTrekker's most popular picks each winter. These snow-covered playgrounds on U.S. Forest Service land welcome dogs for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Grab a permit and arrive early for the best parking and fresh powder.

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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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