Big Bear Lake | DogTrekker

All American River

Float six miles down the American River from Sunrise Bridge to River Bend Park on a dog-friendly raft rental from Sacramento. The gentle Class I water winds through a lush greenbelt with plenty of swimming stops.

10 ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe with your dog

Lake Tahoe delivers ten ways to play with your dog, from swimming at dog-friendly beaches and riding gondolas to floating the Truckee River and paddling kayaks. Add hiking, patio dining, and pup pampering for the ultimate trip.

Dog-friendly campsites in northern California

A roundup of exceptional dog-friendly campgrounds across Northern California, from spacious Gerle Creek Reservoir sites to wildflower-rich Woods Lake near Carson Pass, secluded Kidd Lake, coastal MacKerricher State Park, and the redwood groves of Pfeiffer Big Sur.

Downtown dogs in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz lifted its longtime ban on dogs downtown, and the new policy is now permanent. Leashed pups are welcome from sunrise to sunset, opening up cafes, pizza joints, and seafood spots along the way.

Hiking Mount Tamalpais’s Old Railroad Grade with your dog

Follow the historic Old Railroad Grade 6.6 miles up Mount Tamalpais, tracing the route of the crookedest railway in the world. The smooth trail climbs 1,300 feet through redwoods to panoramic Bay Area views.

Dog-friendly Stanford Inn, Mendocino

Mendocino's Stanford Inn by the Sea has welcomed dogs for decades, greeting them with treats, food bowls, and furniture covers. Next door, Catch A Canoe rents stable canoes for exploring the Big River with your pup.

How to canoe and kayak safely with your dog

Paddling with your dog takes preparation. Train in shallow water first, choose a stable craft with room for both of you, and always use a canine flotation vest. Never leash your dog to the boat.