While winter in many places means snowflakes and ski hills, some California destinations offer a warmer seasonal experience. Hikes feel extra special this time of year, whether you lace up for clear, cool coastal mornings or set off on sunny Southern California afternoons. The Golden State’s all-season destinations take on a particular beauty as winter eases into spring, and you often have the trails mostly to yourself.
Take advantage of this quieter time of year and plan some pup-friendly treks at one of these best-in-show playgrounds.
Making tracks in coastal Mendocino
Few California counties pair dog-friendly resorts with old-growth redwoods and crashing waves the way Mendocino does. Crisp winter weekends are the perfect time to visit, as trails and hotels tend to be more peaceful than in high summer. The Big River Trail runs ten miles from Big River Beach through more than 7,300 acres of state park land, and the newer Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail on the outskirts of Fort Bragg turns a century-closed logging road into five paved, ADA-accessible miles of spectacular ocean views. Don’t miss Mendocino Headlands State Park right in town, either — the bluff trails are open year-round and dogs are welcome on leash.
Follow the sun to Greater Ontario
About 45 miles east of Los Angeles and framed by the San Gabriel Mountains, Greater Ontario — branded GOCAL — is an under-the-radar Southern California pick for winter hiking. Leashed dogs are welcome on many paths in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, and Lake Gregory Regional Park has a gated dog park plus a scenic lake-loop trail. Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park offers 150 acres to run, and the paved Pacific Electric Trail is a favorite with dog walkers. The region’s mild winter weather makes it possible to put in real miles without overheating your pup.
Redding: So many places to roam and stay
Redding sits at the top of California’s Central Valley with more than 225 miles of trails within fifteen minutes of town — a winter hiker’s paradise. The Sheraton Redding at the Sundial Bridge puts you steps from the 17-mile Sacramento River National Recreation Trail, which crosses the iconic bridge itself. Redding hotels lay out treats, bowls, and bedding on arrival, and the Sheraton’s restaurant Mosaic even publishes a dog menu with its own entrees and desserts. Other comfortable dog-welcoming options include the Red Lion, Fairfield Inn, Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn, and La Quinta Inn & Suites.
Breaking news from the Bay Area
The East Bay Regional Park District eliminated dog fees in 2025, which means free access at 73 parks spanning Alameda and Contra Costa counties — a 125,000-acre system with 1,250 miles of trails. Pleasant Hill makes a comfortable central base with affordable hotels, dog-friendly dining, and off-leash surprises like Paso Nogal Dog Park. Winter rains nurture vibrant green hills that roll straight into wildflower season, and in undeveloped park areas dogs are welcome off-leash as long as they’re under voice control.
As always, Leave Only Paw Prints
Wherever your winter adventures take you, please travel responsibly and Leave Only Paw Prints®. Many California destinations, open space districts, and park associations proudly support this campaign — pack out what you pack in, stay on designated trails, and keep the trails clean for the next dog-and-human pair coming through.
Ready to lace up? Browse our full directory of dog-friendly hiking trails and parks across California for more winter-friendly routes.
