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.

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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Capital sipping experiences

Sacramento makes a perfect base for dog-friendly wine tasting. Sip on the patio at Revolution Winery in Midtown, then head to the Apple Hill region near Placerville for fall farm visits and hillside vineyard views.

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Dip into some desert sunshine

Southern California's desert regions come alive in winter, and dog-friendly Temecula is at the center of it all. Stroll Old Town with your pup, visit pet-welcoming wineries, hike desert trails, and enjoy patio dining with vineyard views. California's desert regions…

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Mammoth Lakes is the ultimate pup-cation

Mammoth Lakes is a year-round paradise for dogs, with countless hiking trails, crystal-clear mountain lakes for swimming, and a town full of dog-loving people and pet-friendly hotels. Summer or winter, your pup will have the adventure of a lifetime here.

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Muttville, celebrating 15 years, 2007-2022!

San Francisco's Muttville Senior Dog Rescue celebrated 15 years and over 10,000 dogs rescued. Thanks to their success, shelters across the country now see people specifically asking to adopt senior dogs for the first time.

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Day 4: Barking ways

On the last day of your Yosemite Mariposa County trip, grab coffee at Sticks Coffee, then let your dog explore the Sierra National Forest. Cap it off with lunch at Coulter Cafe or Timberloft Pizzeria.

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Day 1: Woof this way

Your Yosemite Mariposa County road trip starts here. Check into a pet-friendly hotel, stroll charming main streets lined with water bowls, and grab craft brews at 1850 Restaurant. Then gaze up at the Sierra skies and dream about tomorrow's adventures.

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Dog-friendly Tuolumne County (video)

Tuolumne County puts Yosemite, Gold Country, and High Sierra adventures within easy reach. Just two and a half hours from the Bay Area, this dog-friendly region offers year-round outdoor recreation, wine tasting, history, and camera-ready scenery around every bend.

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Paddleboard with your dog at Bass Lake (video)

Bass Lake in Madera County, just 35 miles from Yosemite, is a fantastic spot for paddleboarding with your dog. This video shows how to play like a local on the lake's calm, clear waters.

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Bass Lake video

Less than 35 miles from Yosemite's front gate, Bass Lake offers crystal-clear waters, dog-friendly trails, and a laid-back local atmosphere. Whether you're swimming, hiking, or just exploring the shoreline, it's a perfect day trip or weekend escape with your pup.

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The ultimate doggie treat: A Mammoth Lakes adventure

Mammoth Lakes is pure dog paradise, from the sandy shores of Horseshoe Lake to scenic trails through lodgepole pine forests. Pack up the dog bowl and treat your pup to the ultimate Eastern Sierra adventure.

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Onward to Mammoth, Bishop, and Lone Pine

From Mammoth Lakes's gondola rides and Devil's Postpile to Bishop's famous bakery and the ancient bristlecone pines, the Eastern Sierra is packed with dog-friendly stops. Continue south to Lone Pine, gateway to Death Valley and classic Western movie country.

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Moving south in the Eastern Sierra

Mono Lake's otherworldly tufa towers and Lee Vining's gateway to Yosemite's Tioga Road highlight this stretch of the Eastern Sierra. Don't miss the Saddlebag Lake Loop Trail or the famous Whoa Nellie Deli, where road food reaches gourmet heights.

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To Bridgeport and beyond in the Eastern Sierra

Bridgeport in the Eastern Sierra offers dog-friendly lodges, the ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park, and the pristine Virginia Lakes at 9,000 feet. With rustic cabins, trout-filled waters, and quiet mountain scenery, it's an unforgettable stop on Highway 395.

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When and where to go in the Eastern Sierra

The Eastern Sierra is a year-round playground for dogs, but fall steals the show. Late September through mid-October brings California's best foliage, with golden aspens lining streams beneath granite peaks along Highway 395.

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Water Dog Sea Cave & River Dog packages

Little River Inn rolls out the red carpet for dogs with kayaking packages on the Mendocino Coast. The Water Dog Sea Cave package includes a two-night ocean-view stay, dog-friendly dining, and a guided kayak tour through sea caves.

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