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.

Haven Humane Society saving lives in Carr Fire

When the Carr Fire tore through Northern California, Haven Humane Society sheltered over 700 displaced animals while community support poured in. Volunteers, supplies and partner rescues all rallied to help pets and families affected by the disaster.

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Safe and unsafe human medications for dogs

Not all human medications are safe for dogs. Common painkillers like NSAIDs can cause liver and kidney failure in pets, while some drugs like Famotidine work the same way. Always check with your vet before giving your dog any medication.

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Make Apple Hill a dog-friendly tradition

El Dorado County's Apple Hill region has over 50 family-owned farms, ranches and wineries that welcome leashed dogs. Visit in fall for fresh cider, pie and u-pick orchards, or anytime for wine tasting with scenic vineyard views.

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Up the hill in Placerville with your furry sidekick

Placerville, once known as Hangtown, is now one of Gold Country's most dog-friendly towns. Check into the historic Cary House Hotel, dine on Main Street patios, hike along the American River and explore nearby Apple Hill with your pup.

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Summer fun with your pup in Folsom

Folsom blends Gold Rush history with modern outdoor fun. Stroll dog-friendly Old Town, hike 50-plus miles of paved trails including the Johnny Cash Trail, cool off at Lake Natoma and let your pup run free at Fido Field dog park.

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Cool your jets (and your pets) in Sacramento

Sacramento's dining and brewery scene is booming, with dog-friendly patios everywhere you look. New spots like Mutts and Mugs dog park-pub, Two Rivers Cider Co. and Fountainhead Brewing give you and your pup plenty of reasons to visit.

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Tri-valley: Trails to treats

Just 45 minutes east of San Francisco, the Tri-Valley rewards hikers and their dogs with wide-open parkland and scenic vistas. After hitting the trails, treat yourself along the region's famous beer, wine and ice cream trails.

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Lake County dog-friendly waterfront getaways

Pet-friendly cabin resorts line the shores of Clear Lake and Blue Lakes in Lake County. From waterfront cabins with full kitchens and boat launches to the meticulously renovated Lodge at Blue Lakes, lakeside getaways with your dog abound.

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Dog-friendly Lake County adventures

Lake County offers dog-friendly water adventures from Clear Lake to the spring-fed Blue Lakes. Rent electric boats, splash at state park beaches, hike wildlife areas and watch for bald eagles and wild tule elk at Cache Creek in cooler months.

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All wine, no whine at these Lake County wineries

Lake County is one of California's fastest-growing wine regions, with over 30 wineries welcoming dogs at their tasting rooms and picnic areas. Sample sauvignon blancs, petit sirahs and big reds while your pup relaxes beside you.

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A big bark for Sebastopol’s Barlow

A short walk on the Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail near Sebastopol leads to The Barlow, a lively complex of food producers, breweries, and artist studios where dogs are welcome at outdoor tables.

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Hike-in breakfast with a view

Hike two miles up Mount Tamalpais to West Point Inn for a monthly pancake breakfast with sweeping views. Or head to Cavallo Point Lodge near the Golden Gate Bridge for trails and a dog-friendly patio restaurant.

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A big bark for Sonoma’s bark park

Bartholomew Park Winery near Sonoma Plaza sits within a 400-acre preserve locals call Bart Park. Hike the 3-mile loop through oak hills and redwood groves, then spread a picnic overlooking the vineyards at this little-known Sonoma gem.

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Hiking ‘California’s Switzerland’

The Eastern Sierra's Little Lakes Valley Trail winds past seven high-elevation lakes below 13,000-foot peaks, with wildflowers in summer and blazing fall color in October. Nearby Convict Lake offers an easy 3-mile loop with dramatic mountain scenery.

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A Tahoe classic that rewards with a splash

The steep 4.4-mile hike up Shirley Canyon at Palisades Tahoe rewards you and your dog with cascading waterfalls, a mountain lake, and access to the High Camp complex at 8,200 feet. Ride the tram back down for free.

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For a personal touch, go for the b&b experience

Tuolumne County's bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals add a personal touch to your Gold Country getaway. From the AAA Four-Diamond McCaffrey House in Twain Harte to a mountaintop lodge near Yosemite, dogs are welcomed warmly at each.

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Hike, splash, camp at Tuolumne County lakes

Tuolumne County's mountain lakes offer swimming, hiking, camping and boating with your dog. From popular Pinecrest Lake to massive Lake Don Pedro, where you can rent a dog-friendly houseboat, there is a waterside adventure for every pup.

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Into the Tuolumne County high country

Tuolumne County stretches from Gold Rush towns like Sonora and Jamestown into the High Sierra, with dog-friendly hotels, patio restaurants and miles of national forest trails. Drive Highway 108 over Sonora Pass for a truly spectacular day trip.

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