Road Trips Blog

Fifth stop: Mammoth Lakes back to Sac via Yosemite

The drive from Mammoth Lakes back to Sacramento crosses Tioga Pass through Yosemite National Park at nearly ten thousand feet. Pack a lunch for a stop at Tenaya Lake and soak in 59 miles of jaw-dropping Sierra scenery before descending to the valley.

Image from Top destination stories of 2023 on DogTrekker

Dog-friendly lakes not named “Tahoe”

Skip the Tahoe crowds and explore California's quieter dog-friendly lakes instead. From Clear Lake in Lake County to Big Bear, Shasta Lake and more, these alternatives offer great swimming, boating and shoreline fun with your pup.

Happy New Year from DogTrekker!

DogTrekker kicks off 2026 with a look ahead at the coastal walks, mountain trails and welcoming patios waiting for you and your dog across California.

Maya (RIP), DogTrekkerr.com's Barketing Director, walking near the Sacramento River Trail in Redding.

DogTrekker® 15th anniversary

DogTrekker.com celebrates 15 years of helping California dog lovers travel together, supporting animal welfare groups and inspiring millions of readers since launching in June 2011. DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind -- whether at.

Three real dogs strapped into three airplace seats

Hop on, paws up: JSX makes dog travel easy for California adventurers

JSX lets dogs fly in the cabin on 30-seat jets with no security lines and no cargo holds. Pups up to 79 pounds ride beside you on routes connecting Burbank, Oakland, Napa and other California cities, making weekend getaways stress-free.

California’s best dog-friendly sports bars

Catch the big game with your dog at these 10 California sports bars, from Riddick's in Redding to spots in Big Bear, Fort Bragg and South Lake Tahoe. Few things are better than catching the big game with good friends, cold beer,.

On the road to Yosemite

The Yosemite Region spans four gateway counties, each with its own dog-friendly highlights. From Merced River hikes in Mariposa County to Gold Rush history in Tuolumne County, the journey can be as rewarding as the destination.

Go with the rivers’ flow

Grab a paddle and bring your dog along for a float on California's best rivers. From canoe trips on the Russian River near Healdsburg to outrigger canoes on Mendocino's Big River and rafting the Truckee at Tahoe, wet fun awaits.

5 little-known travel hacks for dog-friendly California adventures

Five insider tips for smoother California road trips with your dog, including pet-friendly rest stops with fenced play areas, hidden beaches away from crowds, no-fee hotel chains, dog-welcome ferries and trains, and local visitor centers with canine-specific recommendations.

Pena Adobe/Lagoon Valley Park, a dog-friendly dog park in Fairfield, California

Vacaville: Your wine country HQ

Vacaville offers affordable, dog-friendly lodging just 30 minutes from Napa Valley and even closer to the laid-back Suisun Valley wine region. Between tastings, enjoy off-leash play at Lagoon Valley Dog Park and patio dining downtown. For wine lovers craving a tasting experience.

Adorable dachshund in an orange sweater using a wheelchair outdoors. Showcasing resilience and pet care.

Best ADA Accessible and Guide Dog Friendly Trails in California

California is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, and everyone deserves to experience them — including hikers with guide dogs, service dogs, and mobility needs. These ADA-accessible trails offer breathtaking scenery without barriers.

Golden retriever walking on a scenic autumn trail among colorful fall foliage and trees, capturing the beautiful outdoor adventure with your dog.

A dog’s guide to autumn: 5 fall day trips in Northern California

Autumn in Northern California means cooler trails, colorful foliage and fewer crowds. These five dog-friendly day trips cover Apple Hill orchards, Gold Rush towns, ocean bluffs and redwood groves, each one perfect for a fall road trip with your pup.

Beyond the crowds in Mendocino county

Mendocino County pairs leash-free beaches, dog-welcoming wineries, botanical gardens, and kayak outfitters with cozy lodging from the Stanford Inn to state park campgrounds. Ride the Skunk Train with your pup or paddle an estuary in a canoe built for dogs.

The gold country’s golden chain highway

Highway 49 links 330 miles of Gold Rush history, dog-friendly trails, and small-town charm. Base yourself in Oakhurst or Sonora for steam-train rides, state park explorations, living-history weekends at Columbia, and scenic Sierra detours along the way.