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.
Tour Gold Rush towns
Mariposa County's towns all make great walks for you and Fido. In Mariposa, the shop-lined streets, Art Park and Mariposa Creek Walk make for a nice way to explore the quaint mountain community and several restaurants boast outdoor seating areas…
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Take a swim
What better way to beat the California summer heat than with a swim? There are great swimming holes all over Mariposa County, but maybe none that are better for dogs than Lake McClure and Lake McSwain in the southern Sierra…
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Hit the trails near Yosemite
What better way to enjoy the mountains for bipeds and quadrupeds alike than by being out on a hike? In Mariposa County's scenic Merced River Canyon, several dog friendly recreation areas exist including the Merced River Hike at the Briceburg…
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Proactively accessible Concord for you and your dog
Concord is a proactively ADA-accessible city with wheelchair-friendly trails perfect for visitors with disabilities and their dogs. From the Mary Bowerman Trail atop Mount Diablo to dozens of East Bay Regional Park loop trails, accessible outdoor fun awaits.
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So, what’s to do with your dog in Concord?
Concord has plenty to get tails wagging, from off-leash romps at Baldwin Dog Park to miles of trails at Lime Ridge and Shell Ridge Open Space. Drive up Mount Diablo for panoramic views or cruise the Iron Horse Trail.
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Outdoor dining with your pup
Skip the takeout containers and treat yourself and your pup to a dog-friendly patio meal in Concord. Nearly every restaurant with outdoor seating welcomes well-behaved dogs, from Lazy Dog and Hop Grenade to Eureka and Guadalajara Grill.
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A Milo update: We need your help to survive
The Milo Foundation continues rescuing and adopting animals from its Mendocino Sanctuary and Point Richmond locations. Adoptions and fostering are booming, but the organization is struggling financially and needs donations to keep its doors open.
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Marin Humane cancels Woofstock, needs support
Marin Humane has moved many programs online and seen a 40 percent increase in requests for free pet food and veterinary help. With the cancellation of their Woofstock fundraiser, they need donations now more than ever to keep serving animals.
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Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue vets save Cali
When sweet Cali, an eight-year-old Lab, arrived at Monterey Bay Lab Rescue with badly infected ovaries, emergency surgery saved her life. Now happily adopted, she spends her days gardening and going to the beach with her new mom.
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Seaside waves and walks with your dog
A drive along Highway 1 through Mendocino County rewards you and your dog with sandy stops at every turn. Enjoy off-leash romps at Noyo Beach and Seaside Beach or leashed walks at MacKerricher State Park.
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Vacationing at Benton Hot Springs
In September 2021 we stayed at Benton Hot Springs in Mono County CA for our 25th wedding anniversary. Highlights include traveling through Yosemite, finding petroglyphs, hiking and just soaking up the high desert beauty.
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How you can help us reach new readers
DogTrekker has supported California shelters and rescue organizations since 2011, and every new newsletter subscriber helps us reach more dog lovers. Share our free newsletter with your pup-loving friends to boost visibility for dog-friendly businesses across the state.
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Go north to find dog-friendly cottages in Mendocino County
Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast offers two dog-friendly cottages beyond its well-known rooms. Rosie Cottage features ocean views and vaulted ceilings, while the Llama Barn Suite comes with a private hot tub.
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River, bridge, dam and your dog – Redding hikes
The Sacramento River National Recreation Trail stretches nearly 19 miles from Redding's iconic Sundial Bridge to massive Shasta Dam. Along the way, you and your dog can take in stunning architecture, riverside swimming spots and views of California's largest reservoir.
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Best dog-friendly hikes in Santa Cruz County
Santa Cruz County is packed with dog-friendly hikes. Walk through redwoods along the Pipeline Trail at Henry Cowell, find a hidden koi pond at Pogonip Open Space, or hop aboard the Roaring Camp steam train with your well-behaved pup.
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Spring into Yosemite
Spring is the perfect time to visit Yosemite with your dog. Waterfalls rush, wildflowers bloom, and leashed dogs are welcome on most paved roads and paths in the valley. Mariposa County along the way adds dog-friendly lodging, dining and hikes.
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Enchanted dog-friendly hiking in Santa Cruz
Byrne-Milliron Forest in Santa Cruz County combines hiking with outdoor art, featuring sculptures of sprites and goddesses along the trails. Dogs with solid recall can go off-leash, and nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods and Nisene Marks offer even more trail options.
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Outdoor Gilroy: More than just garlic!
Gilroy is more than garlic. Mount Madonna County Park offers 4,605 acres of trails through redwood forest, oak woodland, and grassy meadows. Nearby Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch adds 33 more miles of dog-friendly paths.
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