Big Bear Lake | DogTrekker

Over hill and dale in El Dorado County

El Dorado County's Apple Hill region is more than orchards and pie. Seven dog-friendly wineries and a brewery line the Wine Trail, with tasting rooms that welcome pups and shaded picnic areas overlooking the rolling hills near the American River…

Cruising with Cosmo in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County's 29 miles of coastline offer beaches, off-leash dog parks with ocean views, and dog-friendly restaurants for a coastal getaway. Mitchell's Cove provides leash-free sand time, while Seacliff State Beach features a quirky concrete freighter from 1910.

SLO down already

San Luis Obispo County's Central Coast is mellow for dogs and humans alike. Off-leash fun awaits at Olde Port Beach near Avila, while leashed pups can enjoy Pismo State Beach, Cayucos State Beach, and the secluded shores near Morro Rock.

Make a splash in Marin

Marin County is loaded with dog-friendly beaches, from off-leash Muir Beach to the magical shores of Point Reyes National Seashore. Kehoe Beach, Limantour Beach, Dillon Beach, and Rodeo Beach each offer stunning scenery and room for your pup to romp.

Dog-friendly hide-aways in Mendocino

Mendocino County offers secluded, dog-friendly getaways from blufftop cottages at Serenisea to the architecturally stunning retreats of Sheep Dung Properties in Anderson Valley. Fenced grounds and nearby wineries make these spots ideal for a quiet escape.

More ways to play at Lake Tahoe

Dogs can swim at Lake Tahoe, and Kiva Beach at Taylor Creek is the top spot. Nearby, the Tallac Historic Site offers fascinating 19th-century estates to stroll. For lake views, hike the trail at Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

Catch a ride on a canine cruiser

Catch A Canoe in Mendocino has added a custom-built Canine Cruiser to its fleet. The handmade redwood outrigger features a raised, padded deck that fits up to four dogs, making Big River estuary trips a true family affair.

Moseying around Mariposa County

Mariposa County's Highway 140 corridor leads to Yosemite through dog-friendly gateway towns. Hike the wildflower-rich Hite Cove Trail in spring, ride a vintage steam train at Sugar Pine Railroad, and stay at charming local lodges.

Hear the roar

Yosemite Falls roars at 2,425 feet during snow-melt season, and your leashed dog is welcome on the paved half-mile path to the base. Dog-friendly lodging in gateway towns like Groveland and Fish Camp keeps you close.

Exploring the Tri-Valley

The Tri-Valley east of San Francisco Bay is home to Danville, Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, and San Ramon. The Livermore Wine Valley's 40-plus wineries welcome dogs, open-space preserves offer miles of trails, and dog-friendly patios and hotels make overnight visits easy.

Shelter in the Tahoe snow

Tahoe in winter calls for snowy adventures by day and cozy cabin retreats at night. Cedar Glen Lodge, Tahoma Meadows, and Sorensen's Resort all welcome dogs and offer quick access to cross-country ski and snowshoe trails.

Cupid calls in Mendocino

Mendocino County's Sheep Dung Properties offer architecturally stunning cottages on fenced rural land perfect for a romantic getaway with your dog. Nearby, Howard Creek Ranch Inn and Andiron Seaside Inn provide coastal retreats with antique charm.