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.

Cruz your way to a wine heaven
Santa Cruz County is home to more than 70 small-production wineries and tasting rooms, many of them dog-friendly. Follow the Organic Wine Trail or the Corralitos Wine Trail for a relaxed afternoon of sipping with your pup at your side.
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Hiding in plain sight: Santa Clara Valley wine trail
Gilroy sits in the heart of the Santa Clara Valley, one of California's oldest wine-growing regions with more than 35 family-owned wineries. Many welcome dogs, and a Wine Trail Pass gives you year-round tasting access with dog-friendly stops clearly marked.
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Chow down with a view
Mendocino County serves up memorable dog-friendly dining with a view. Savor fresh seafood on the Harbor View Bistro's second-story deck, try award-winning vegan fare at Ravens Restaurant, or dine under a heated tent at the Little River Inn.
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Paddle with your pup in Mendocino County
Get out on the water with your dog in Mendocino County. Little River Inn pairs kayaking on the Albion River with a two-night stay, while Catch A Canoe offers a canine cruiser catamaran on the Big River estuary.
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Room to roam in Mendocino
Head to Mendocino County, where dog-friendly trails wind along the coast and through shady inland forests. The Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail offers ocean views, while the Shakota Trail follows the wooded shores of Lake Mendocino.
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Mendocino: More than a day trip
Mendocino County offers dog-friendly lodging for every taste and budget, from the Stanford Inn and Little River Inn to the pet suites at Beachcomber Motel. With ocean views and direct beach access, your pup will feel at home.
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Tail-waggin’ fun in Folsom and surrounding areas
Folsom pairs a charming Old Town with miles of dog-friendly trails along the American River Parkway and Folsom Lake. Add in taprooms, restaurants with patios, and the Johnny Cash Trail for a full weekend with your pup.
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Capital canine discoveries
Sacramento rewards DogTrekkers with shady Capitol Park strolls, dog-friendly patios in buzzy Midtown, and the Old Sacramento Waterfront along the river. Leash up and explore leafy neighborhood parks like McKinley, Curtis Park and the sprawling William Land Park.
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Leave no dog behind when visiting Yosemite
Think about it this way. You’re with your dog just about every day. Do you really want to be apart from them on vacation? At Tenaya Lodge, you don’t have to leave a friend behind. Here, friendship travels. Explore…
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Ready to hike? We’ve already done the digging!
Yosemite is home to a number of dog-friendly trails. Leashed dogs are allowed at picturesque Yosemite destinations including
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High altitude amenities
Tenaya Lodge, set among 50 acres of Sierra National Forest just two miles from Yosemite, rolls out the red carpet for dogs. Their pet package includes beds, bowls, treats, plus dog-sitting and kennel services.
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Headed for Yosemite? You lucky dog!
In Yosemite, you’ll embark on a getaway you and your little buddy will never forget. Together, you can explore the wonders of the Sierra region at a full-service resort that offers 75 acres of outdoor recreation and accommodations.
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Four-paw pet-friendly Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Anybody who has ever traveled with their canine companion knows that some accommodations are more dog-friendly than others. At Tenaya Lodge, you can fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy. If you like adventuring with your dog and have always…
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A pedigreed playground for your pup
Fort Bragg Noyo Harbor Inn puts you steps from a fishing village, state park beaches, the Skunk Train, and Glass Beach. Off-leash dog areas at Noyo Beach and Seaside Beach make this Mendocino Coast stretch a pup paradise.
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Paws for dinner on the patio
The Harborview Bistro and Bar at Noyo Harbor Inn serves locally sourced seafood and farm-fresh dishes on a dog-friendly patio overlooking the river. Chef Duboc pulls fish from the harbor and herbs from the inn gardens.
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Board the storied Skunk Train
Ride the historic Skunk Train through old-growth redwoods on Mendocino County's dog-friendly logging-era railroad. Choose the coastal Pudding Creek Express from Fort Bragg or the inland Wolf Tree Turn from Willits, both showcasing ancient forests and stunning scenery.
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Yo! Yosemite calls you and your dog
Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite offers dog-friendly rooms and Explorer Cabins on 27 forested acres. Their Fido Friendly Package comes with pet beds, bowls, and treats, plus kennel services for when you visit the park or spa.
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Tahoe splash: Dog-friendly things to do in Tahoe
Summer at Lake Tahoe means beach romps, mountain hikes, and tram rides with your dog. Splash at dog-friendly beaches, hike Shirley Canyon Trail to High Camp at Palisades Tahoe, or join Wild Blue Dogs camp.
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