🚗 Dog-Friendly Weekend Trips from Tahoe
Living the Tahoe Dog life means adventure is always calling — and sometimes that means hitting the road for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re chasing coastal breezes, exploring wine country, or stepping back into history, there are plenty of destinations within a few hours’ drive that welcome you and your pup. Here are some of our favorite dog-friendly weekend trips from Lake Tahoe:
🏔 Mammoth Lakes
A mountain town that rivals Tahoe’s beauty, Mammoth Lakes is a paradise for outdoor pups. Hike the scenic Mammoth Lakes Basin trails, take a paddle at Horseshoe Lake (dogs are welcome off-leash here), or explore Devils Postpile National Monument together. Many lodges and vacation rentals are pet-friendly, making it easy to settle in for a long weekend.
🌊 Carmel-by-the-Sea
If there’s a dog mecca in California, it’s Carmel. Dogs are welcome on Carmel Beach off-leash, at many restaurants and cafes, and even in boutique shops downtown. Stay in one of the pet-friendly inns or head a little further down Highway 1 to explore Big Sur with your pup by your side. Don’t miss the famous Cypress trees at Pebble Beach for the ultimate photo op.
🍷 Napa & Sonoma Wine Country
Wine country isn’t just for people — it’s a playground for dogs, too. Many wineries across Napa and Sonoma welcome pups in their outdoor tasting areas. Favorites include V. Sattui and Mumm Napa in Napa, and Bartholomew Estate or Imagery, Benzinger, Kunde Family Winery in Sonoma. Between tastings, enjoy vineyard walks, rolling hills, and dog-friendly restaurants with shaded patios. With dozens of charming inns, boutique hotels, and even glamping options, wine country makes for a perfect weekend pairing with your pup.
🌲 Mendocino Coast
For ocean cliffs, redwoods, and small-town charm, head to Mendocino. Dogs are welcome on many of the state beaches (such as Big River Beach) and the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Nearby Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach is a fun stop, and the historic Skunk Train even offers “Pup Passes” so your dog can ride along.
🌻 Woodland & Winters
For a quieter escape, the farm towns of Woodland and Winters near Davis are a dog-friendly surprise. Stroll historic downtown Winters, sample farm-to-table fare on outdoor patios, and walk along Putah Creek. It’s a great spot for pups that prefer mellow adventures and shady trails. For an extra special treat, visit Capay Valley Lavender in July, when the purple flowers bloom and your pups can run like the wind through their beauty.
🏞 Mount Shasta
For true wilderness vibes, Shasta delivers. Explore Castle Lake, Lake Siskiyou Trail, or venture into the Shasta-Trinity National Forest for dog-friendly hikes. The mountain views are epic, and many local cabins and lodges welcome dogs. This is a great choice if your pup loves alpine lakes and cooler air.
🏕 Yosemite (Outside the Valley)
While Yosemite’s main trails restrict dogs, you can still have an incredible trip if you plan right. Dogs are allowed in developed areas, paved trails, and campgrounds. Consider Wawona or Tuolumne Meadows as bases, or look to nearby towns like Groveland or Lee Vining where dog-friendly lodging is easier to find. Even a drive through Tioga Pass with your pup is unforgettable.
🐎 Virginia City, NV
Step back into the Wild West with your four-legged sidekick. Virginia City welcomes dogs in many shops and saloons (on leash, of course), and the wooden boardwalks make for a fun stroll. With plenty of outdoor history to sniff out, this is an easy half-day or overnight trip from Tahoe.
🌼 Grass Valley & Nevada City
Gold Rush history meets modern charm in these twin towns. Enjoy dog-friendly patios at breweries and cafes, hike the Tribute Trail along the Yuba River, or take your pup through the streets of Nevada City’s historic downtown. Both towns are filled with dog-friendly lodging and are less than two hours from Tahoe.
🍂 Hope Valley
Closer to home but perfect for a weekend reset, Hope Valley is pure magic — especially in fall when the aspens explode with color. Leashed dogs are welcome on many of the trails and meadows, and the valley is a peaceful place for hiking, picnicking, and quiet stargazing at night. Cabins and campgrounds in the area are pup-friendly too.
🌊 Truckee River Canyon
Just a short drive from Tahoe, the Truckee River Canyon offers outdoor fun for dogs who love to hike and splash. Walk riverside trails, explore dog-friendly breweries in Truckee, or plan a relaxed overnight at a pet-welcoming lodge. This is a great “mini-weekend” getaway for when you don’t want to travel too far.
🔥 Redding & Lassen Volcanic National Park
If you’re up for a longer drive, head north to Redding, which has lots of dog-friendly hiking trails along the Sacramento River and Turtle Bay area. While dogs aren’t allowed on most trails in Lassen Volcanic National Park, they are welcome in developed areas and many surrounding lakes and forests — so you can still make it a memorable mountain getaway with your pup.
🌅 Tiburon
For a coastal getaway with stunning bay views, Tiburon is a hidden gem. Just north of San Francisco, this small town has a walkable waterfront, ferry rides (yes, dogs can join on leash), and plenty of dog-friendly patios overlooking the bay. Take the scenic Old Rail Trail for an easy stroll with your pup or hop the ferry to Angel Island State Park, where leashed dogs are welcome on boat rides and in designated areas.
🐶 Final Tips for Weekend Trips
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Always check local leash laws — some areas like Carmel Beach allow off-leash freedom, others require leashes at all times.
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Pack a doggy weekend bag: water bowl, bed/blanket, food, waste bags, and any meds.
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Call ahead to confirm pet policies at hotels, Airbnbs, or wineries.
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Make sure your pup is ready for the adventure — road-trip breaks and shade are key.
Where will your next Tahoe Dog weekend take you? Share your adventures with us at @tahoedogco and don’t forget to tag your photos with #tahoedogco!
