DogTrekker Laura M. was visiting Tahoe recently with her two travel-loving dogs and her mountain biking husband. While waiting to collect him and his bike from a Tahoe trail adventure, she decided to hang out with her dogs near the staging area at the dog-loving Tunnel Creek Café. Here’s what she had to say:
“The day before, I asked if it was ok if I wait at the cafe with my dogs. Turned out, the guests and employees had their own dogs there! They said they would LOVE for the three of us to come. The next day we got there, and after my dogs and I hiked a few miles up the hill and back (beautiful hike), we stopped for lunch and talked with the cafe employees and guests, who were all so kind and welcoming to my dogs… they even understood the one who can be kind of reactive, and made him feel secure and at home too.
If you have dogs, you HAVE to stop here. Breakfast, lunch, wine and beer on tap, patio out front, and it backs right onto the trails.”
Laura, thanks for the fantastic photos and dog-friendly recommendation!
The Tunnel Creek Café sits at the trailhead for the Tunnel Creek Trail on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, making it a natural gathering spot for hikers, bikers and dog owners. The café keeps water bowls out front and the staff genuinely enjoys having dogs around, which makes a big difference when you are traveling with a reactive or nervous pup. The patio offers shade and a relaxed vibe where dogs can settle in while you refuel with a sandwich and a cold drink.
The hiking in the area is excellent, too. The Tunnel Creek Trail climbs through pine forests with views of the lake that just keep getting better the higher you go. It connects to a network of trails popular with mountain bikers, so keep your dog close on the narrower sections. The trail is not paved, so bring water for your dog, especially in summer when the exposed stretches can get warm.
If you are looking for a Tahoe stop where both you and your dogs will feel truly welcome, put Tunnel Creek Café on your list. It is the kind of place where nobody gives you a sideways look for having dogs at the table, and that counts for a lot when you are planning a day out with your pack.
