Big Bear Lake

Mariposa County: West entrance (Hwy 140)

Highway 140 through Mariposa County leads to Yosemite's Arch Rock entrance, passing dog-friendly lodgings, scenic Merced River trails rich with wildflowers, and charming gateway towns. It's a route packed with places to stay and hike with your pup.

Bay Area German Shepherd rescue 2017

Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue takes a fresh approach to rehoming by letting owners keep their dogs while BAGSR finds the right match. The result is faster adoptions, fewer returns and smoother transitions for dogs like the lovable Rex.

HB Collection: Dog-passionate hotels

The HB Collection brings together four premier oceanfront resorts in Huntington Beach, and all of them welcome dogs. From the Shorebreak's nightly wine reception to the Waterfront's doggie reader board, these hotels go above and beyond for pups.

Muttville senior dog rescue 2017

Muttville Senior Dog Rescue saved 912 older dogs in 2016 and earned founder Sherri Franklin a Top 10 CNN Heroes nomination. Their Cuddle Club connects dog-deprived San Franciscans with senior pups for some mutually rewarding quality time.

All paws welcome on the Napa Valley Vine Trail

The Napa Valley Vine Trail offers a paved 12.5-mile path from Kennedy Park to Yountville, passing dog-friendly wineries like Laird Family Estate and Domaine Chandon. Combine a morning walk with wine tasting and a patio lunch in restaurant-rich Yountville.

Weatherproof wine tasting with your dog

Rain or shine, dozens of Napa Valley wineries welcome dogs right into their tasting rooms. From Calistoga to Carneros, you'll find treat jars on counters, water bowls at the ready, and even a dog suite at Frenchie Winery.

Do more along Highway 4

Highway 4 climbs through Calaveras and Alpine counties into a winter wonderland of cross-country ski trails, snow-covered forest roads and ancient redwoods at Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Leashed dogs are welcome to join the snowy fun.

PyrPaw Rescue: saving Great Pyrenees on the West Coast

PyrPaw Rescue and the West Coast Great Pyrenees Foundation work to keep these big, fluffy working dogs in loving homes. From emergency rescues to training support for struggling owners, they're building a safety net for Great Pyrenees across the region.