California is the greatest road trip state in the country — and for dog owners, it’s in a category of its own. In a single state you can drive a rugged volcanic wilderness corridor, wind through ancient redwood forests taller than skyscrapers, cruise one of the most spectacular coastal highways on earth, sip wine on a vineyard patio with your pup at your feet, and wake up beside a glacier-carved alpine lake. The diversity of landscape, the year-round drivability, and the deeply ingrained dog-welcoming culture throughout the state make California the ultimate place to hit the road with your dog.

This guide covers seven distinct dog-friendly road trip routes across California — each one self-contained and worth doing on its own, but also connectable into a longer adventure. Routes are ordered by popularity so the most-traveled roads come first and the hidden gems follow.

A note on durations: All trip lengths in this guide reflect time spent actively exploring each route — not travel time to or from your starting point. Where you’re departing from will add to the total trip length.

Before you go, check out our Dog-Friendly Travel Packing List to make sure you have everything you need for the road.

At a Glance: California Dog-Friendly Road Trips

• Route 1: The Pacific Coast Highway — San Francisco to San Diego | 7–14 days | The classic California drive
• Route 2: The Northern California Coast — SF to Mendocino | 3–4 days | Wild beaches, oysters & coastal charm
• Route 3: The Wine Country Loop — Napa, Sonoma & the Sonoma Coast | 3–5 days | Vineyards, river towns & the coast
• Route 4: The Sierra Nevada & Eastern Sierra Loop — Yosemite, Mammoth Lakes & Lake Tahoe | 6–8 days | Mountain lakes, alpine trails & the Eastern Sierra
• Route 5: The Desert Drive — Palm Springs & Joshua Tree | 3–4 days | Desert sunrises, stargazing & wide-open trails
• Route 6: The Northern Wilderness Drive — Bay Area to Mt. Shasta & Dunsmuir | 3–5 days | Volcanic peaks, waterfalls & true wilderness
• Route 7: The Redwoods Drive — SF to the Redwood Coast | 4–6 days | Ancient forests, elk meadows & the wild northern coast

Route 1: The Pacific Coast Highway — San Francisco to San Diego 

~550 miles | 7–14 days | The classic California road trip

The Pacific Coast Highway is the crown jewel of California driving and genuinely one of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Highway 1 hugs the coastline for much of this route, alternating between dramatic cliffs, sandy coves, surf towns, vineyards tumbling to the sea, and some of the most dog-friendly small cities in the state. If you only ever do one California road trip with your dog, this is the one.

How to break it into shorter trips: The full PCH from San Francisco to San Diego is best done over 7–14 days, but it divides naturally into three distinct segments — each completely satisfying on its own. All durations below are minimums:

• Segment A — SF to Big Sur (3–4 days minimum): The most dramatic coastal scenery on the entire route
• Segment B — Big Sur to Santa Barbara (2–3 days minimum): Central Coast wine country, elephant seals, and college towns
• Segment C — Santa Barbara to San Diego (2–3 days minimum): Classic Southern California with key stops along the way

Stop 1: San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country and the perfect launching pad for this route. Spend at least two nights here before heading south. The Presidio, Crissy Field, and Baker Beach give dogs some of the best urban beach and trail access in California, and the city’s patio dining culture means you’ll never struggle to find a dog-friendly meal.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly San Francisco Weekend Guide

Stop 2: Half Moon Bay

About 45 minutes south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a natural first overnight on the PCH. Wide sandy beaches welcome leashed dogs along much of the coastline, the California Coastal Trail runs for miles along dramatic bluffs, and the Ritz-Carlton sits right on the cliffs with a private coastal trail leading to the beach. Don’t miss Andreotti Family Farms for U-pick sunflowers in season, or the world-famous pumpkin patches in fall.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay — up to 2 dogs, 40 lbs max, $150/stay, in-room gourmet pet menu.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Half Moon Bay

Stop 3: Santa Cruz

About an hour south of Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz is a wonderfully dog-friendly surf town with 15 dog-friendly beaches along its 29-mile coastline, miles of coastal cliff walks, and a vibrant downtown. Skip the crowded Boardwalk area (dogs aren’t allowed on the Boardwalk or its adjacent beach) and head straight to Its Beach (Lighthouse Field State Beach) on West Cliff Drive — the unofficial dog beach of Santa Cruz, where leashed dogs are welcome and the local dog community is thick. Mitchell’s Cove Beach offers off-leash hours before 10am and after 4pm. West Cliff Drive itself is a beautiful three-mile coastal walk with Pacific views the entire way.

For redwoods near Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton allows dogs on several trails including the Pipeline Trail and Meadow Trail — a rare opportunity to walk among coastal redwoods with your pup on leash.

Where to stay: Santa Cruz has a good range of dog-friendly vacation rentals and boutique hotels throughout the beach neighborhoods. Chaminade Resort in the Santa Cruz Mountains welcomes dogs and has beautiful wooded grounds.

Stop 4: Monterey & Carmel

Monterey and Carmel sit just an hour south of Santa Cruz and together make one of the finest dog-friendly destination pairings in California. Spend at least two nights here.

Monterey rewards leashed dogs with the 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, Asilomar State Beach, Monterey State Beach, and Jack’s Peak County Park for off-leash hiking. Cannery Row has outdoor dining patios throughout.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has one of the strongest claims to being the most dog-friendly town in California. Dogs are off-leash year-round on Carmel Beach — arguably the most beautiful dog beach in the state. Most downtown restaurants and shops welcome dogs, and the fairy-tale cottage streets are made for wandering with a pup.

Where to stay: Sanctuary Beach Resort steps from a dog-friendly beach with a dog menu and stick library — or Bernardus Lodge & Spa in Carmel Valley for vineyard luxury.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Monterey | Dog-Friendly Guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea

Stop 5: Big Sur

South of Carmel, Highway 1 enters Big Sur — arguably the most dramatic coastal drive in America. Sheer cliffs plunging into the Pacific, sea-carved arches, redwood canyon hikes, and a wildness that feels completely removed from civilization. Leashed dogs are welcome at Pfeiffer Beach, Andrew Molera State Park trails, and at the Bixby Bridge pull-off for photos. Plan at least one night here — the sunsets are extraordinary.

Note: Highway 1 through Big Sur is subject to closures due to landslides and weather events. Always check Caltrans QuickMap before driving this stretch.

👉 Full details: Ultimate Dog-Friendly Guide to Big Sur

Stop 6: San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach

After the intensity of Big Sur, San Luis Obispo is a welcome breath of college-town air — the self-proclaimed “Happiest City in America,” with a year-round farmers’ market (Thursdays on Higuera Street), charming downtown patios, Edna Valley wine tasting, and multiple dog-friendly beaches nearby. Pismo State Beach allows leashed dogs on the beach all day every day, and the wide flat sand is perfect for dogs who’ve been cooped up on the winding Big Sur drive. The famous Monarch Butterfly Grove just off Highway 1 welcomes leashed dogs year-round — best visited November through February when the butterflies are present.

On your way through, watch for two exceptional stops along the SLO County coast: the elephant seal rookery at San Simeon — free, open year-round, and dogs are welcome at the viewing area — and Ragged Point, where the Ragged Point Cliffside Trail rewards hikers with a black sand beach and 300-foot waterfall.

Where to stay: Hotel Cerro in downtown SLO is dog-friendly and centrally located. Pismo Lighthouse Suites offers oceanfront dog-friendly suites right on the beach.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to San Luis Obispo

Stop 7: Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara — the “American Riviera” — is one of the most beautiful cities in California, with a Mediterranean climate, stunning Spanish Colonial architecture, world-class wineries in the surrounding hills, and a genuine dog-welcoming culture throughout. The Funk Zone tasting room district is excellent for dog-friendly wine exploration on foot, Douglas Family Preserve offers off-leash hiking with ocean views, and Arroyo Burro Beach (Hendry’s) is one of the best dog-friendly beaches on the Central Coast — with a dog rinsing station and a wide sandy stretch perfect for an off-leash romp. Spend at least two nights here.

Where to stay: Kimpton Canary Hotel downtown is dog-friendly with no breed or weight restrictions and a rooftop pool. Hotel Milo on the waterfront also welcomes dogs warmly.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Santa Barbara

Stop 8: Ventura, Malibu & the Los Angeles Coast

The stretch between Santa Barbara and San Diego passes through some genuinely dog-friendly coastal gems worth slowing down for.

Ventura — about 30 miles south of Santa Barbara — is a relaxed surf town with a dog-friendly downtown and San Buenaventura State Beach, where leashed dogs are welcome on the sand. The Ventura Promenade along the waterfront makes for a beautiful dog walk with ocean views.

Continuing south, Leo Carrillo State Beach on the northern edge of Malibu welcomes leashed dogs on the beach (except between the lifeguard stands). This is one of the most scenic dog-friendly beaches in Southern California — rugged sea caves, tide pools, and a wild undeveloped feel that’s rare this close to Los Angeles.

Los Angeles itself is largely unfriendly to beach dogs — most LA County beaches prohibit dogs entirely. Skip straight to the freeway and continue south.

Laguna Beach in Orange County is worth an afternoon stop. Several beaches welcome leashed dogs year-round (with seasonal restrictions June 15–September 10 requiring dogs to be present only before 8am and after 6pm). The artsy downtown is walkable and genuinely welcoming with water bowls outside storefronts and plenty of outdoor dining patios.

Huntington Dog Beach — between Goldenwest and Seapoint streets in Huntington Beach — is the most famous dedicated dog beach in Southern California and one of the few off-leash options between Santa Barbara and San Diego. Wide, popular, and genuinely fun for dogs who love the surf.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Huntington Beach

Stop 9: San Diego

The PCH ends in San Diego — one of the most dog-friendly cities in the United States. With 70 miles of coastline, year-round sunshine, the original off-leash dog beach in the country, a booming brewery scene where dogs are welcome in most tasting rooms, and Balboa Park’s1,200 acres of walkable urban parkland, San Diego is worthy of 2–3 nights on its own.

Where to stay: Multiple excellent dog-friendly options including Loews Coronado Bay Resort and the Hotel del Coronado, both steps from the beach.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to San Diego | Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in San Diego

Route 2: The Northern California Coast — San Francisco to Mendocino 

~175 miles one way | 3–4 days | Best for: wild beaches, oysters & small-town coastal charm

The slower, wilder drive north of San Francisco rewards anyone willing to stay on Highway 1 and resist the temptation to take US-101. The payoff is dramatic bluffs, tule elk, working dairy farms, oysters shucked to order on Tomales Bay, and a Victorian coastal village at the very end of it.

Stop 1: Marin Headlands & Sausalito

Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands offer some of the most dramatic coastal hiking near San Francisco. Rodeo Beach allows dogs off-leash under voice control on a pebbly crescent beach backed by green headlands. Sausalito’s waterfront Bridgeway is lined with dog-welcoming patios and galleries with views across the bay to San Francisco.

Where to stay: Cavallo Point — the most dog-welcoming luxury resort near San Francisco, with Golden Gate Bridge views, a dog menu at Sula restaurant, and Top Dawg K9 training weekends. No weight limit, $150/stay.

Stop 2: Stinson Beach & Point Reyes National Seashore

Stinson Beach is a wide, beautiful stretch of sand where leashed dogs are welcome. From there, Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the most spectacular natural areas in California — 71,000 acres of coastal wilderness with a higher percentage of dog-accessible land than most national park units. Limantour Beach is long, wild, and leashed-dog friendly from end to end. Stop at Hog Island Oyster Co. in Marshall for shucked-to-order oysters at outdoor picnic tables — dog-friendly grounds and an essential Bay Area experience.

Always check the NPS Point Reyes pet guidelines before visiting — some areas have restrictions.

Stop 3: Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is a working fishing village with dramatic scenery and genuine coastal character. Doran Regional Park welcomes leashed dogs on its long sandy beach, and the nearby Bodega Head Trail offers clifftop views of the Pacific with dogs on leash.

Stop 4: Guerneville & the Russian River

Guerneville is the center of the Russian River Valley — a laid-back river town surrounded by old-growth redwoods, Sonoma wine country, and the river itself. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve allows leashed dogs on the main road and in developed areas, giving your pup a sense of the ancient forest even if trail access is restricted. 

Where to stay: AutoCamp Russian River — designer Airstreams and cabins with fire pits, $75 flat pet fee. Or Dawn Ranch — 22 acres of redwoods along the river, $150/stay.

Stop 5: Mendocino & Fort Bragg

Mendocino is the jewel at the end of this route — a perfectly preserved Victorian coastal village perched on dramatic headlands above the Pacific. Mendocino Headlands State Park welcomes leashed dogs on bluff trails with views that rank among the best in California. Catch a Canoe at Stanford Inn offers dog-friendly paddle trips through the Big River estuary. Downtown has excellent coffee at GoodLife Café, dog-welcoming patios throughout, and the kind of charm that inspires return visits.

Where to stay: Mendocino Grove — glamping with Pup Package, dog park, wash station, $20/night pet fee. Or Stanford Inn — eco-resort with dog-friendly canoe rentals, $45/stay.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Mendocino | 10-Day Dog-Friendly Northern California Road Trip (full day-by-day itinerary)

Route 3: The Wine Country Loop — Napa, Sonoma & the Sonoma Coast 

~150 miles circular | 3–5 days | Best for: vineyard patios, redwood river towns & dramatic coastline

A circular loop from the Bay Area that takes you through world-class wine country, old-growth redwoods, and back down the dramatic Sonoma Coast — the most civilized road trip on this list, and one that earns its place among California’s greatest drives.

Stop 1: Napa Valley

Napa Valley is more dog-friendly than most people expect. A growing number of wineries welcome leashed dogs on their terraces — Hall Winery, Alpha & Omega, and V. Sattui are some of our favorites among the most welcoming. The Napa Valley Vine Trail offers easy paved walking along the valley floor, and Oxbow Public Market in Napa has excellent outdoor dining. Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga all have dog-welcoming patios throughout their charming downtowns. Calistoga is worth an overnight for its geothermal spa town atmosphere.

Where to stay: Carneros Resort & Spa — fenced patio cottages, on-site dog park with agility equipment, no weight limit, $150/stay.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Napa Valley

Stop 2: Sonoma

Sonoma is Napa’s more laid-back, historically rooted counterpart. The Sonoma Plaza — one of the largest town squares in California — is entirely walkable with a leashed dog, surrounded by tasting rooms, boutiques, and patios. Bartholomew Park Winery has vineyard hiking trails dogs can join on leash. The Bear Flag Republic was born here, and the historic energy of the town is palpable even on a casual stroll.

Stop 3: Healdsburg

Healdsburg sits at the confluence of three wine appellations and has become one of the most food-and-wine-driven small towns in California. The Healdsburg Plaza is walkable and lined with world-class tasting rooms and farm-to-table restaurants. Dry Creek Valley wineries — including Ferrari-Carano and Preston Farm & Winery — welcome leashed dogs on their terraces. Riverfront Regional Park has trail walks through redwoods along the Russian River.

Stop 4: Guerneville & the Russian River

AutoCamp Russian River or Dawn Ranch make excellent overnight bases here. Walk the redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, paddle along the Russian River, and use Guerneville as a launchpad for Dry Creek Valley wine tasting.

Stop 5: Jenner & the Sonoma Coast

Goat Rock Beach at the mouth of the Russian River is one of the most dramatic coastal spots in the region — leashed dogs welcome on the wide sandy beach, with harbor seals frequently visible on the sandbar. Sonoma Coast State Beach stretches for miles along Highway 1 with a series of dog-friendly pull-offs and beach access points.

Where to stay: Timber Cove Resort — cliffside property with sweeping ocean views, dogs welcome on the patio of Coast Kitchen, $75/stay.

Stop 6: Dillon Beach

End the loop with a night at Dillon Beach Resort — a privately owned stretch of calm, wide coastline that’s one of the most underrated dog beaches in Northern California. $35/night pet fee. From here it’s about 90 minutes back to the Bay Area, closing the loop cleanly.

👉 Full details: Best Bay Area Getaways

Route 4: The Sierra Nevada & Eastern Sierra Loop — Yosemite, Mammoth Lakes & Lake Tahoe 

~500 miles circular | 6–8 days | Best for: mountain lakes, alpine trails & dramatic volcanic peaks

California’s mountain interior at its finest — a loop from the Bay Area through Yosemite, down the spectacular Eastern Sierra to Mammoth Lakes, and north to Lake Tahoe before heading home. Two distinct route options depending on the season make this one of the most versatile trips on the list.

Route 4A: Standard Loop (year-round)

From the Bay Area, head east through Groveland to Yosemite Valley, then exit the park south via Highway 41 toward Mammoth Lakes. From Mammoth, continue north through Bishop on US-395 before cutting west to South Lake Tahoe, looping around the lake to Tahoe City, and returning to the Bay Area via I-80.

Route 4B: Tioga Pass Option (late May–November only)

Same as 4A but crossing Yosemite’s Tioga Pass (Highway 120 East) — one of the most spectacular mountain drives in California, crossing the Sierra Nevada at 9,945 feet through Tuolumne Meadows and the high country. Add 1–2 days for this route. Check opening dates annually at Caltrans QuickMap — Tioga Pass typically opens late May through November depending on snowpack.

Stop 1: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite tops our list as the most dog-friendly national park in California. Many of its most iconic sights are accessible to leashed dogs on paved roads and flat valley-floor trails. The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is the best dog-friendly hike in the park — a flat, paved half-mile loop to the base of one of the tallest waterfalls on earth. Glacier Point allows leashed dogs on the paved trail to the 7,214-foot overlook — the single most breathtaking viewpoint in the park. Tunnel View, Sentinel Bridge, El Capitan Meadow, and Bridalveil Fall are all accessible with dogs. The Horsetail Firefall in mid-to-late February is one of the most magical seasonal experiences in California.

Yosemite requires timed entry reservations May–October. Book at recreation.gov well in advance.

Where to stay: AutoCamp Yosemite in Midpines — designer Airstreams, pine forest, $75 flat pet fee. Or Firefall Ranch in Groveland — ranch-style cabins with meadow access, $35/night.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Yosemite

Stop 2: Tioga Pass & Tuolumne Meadows (Route 4B only, seasonal)

If you’re taking the Tioga Pass crossing, the drive itself through Tuolumne Meadows at 8,600 feet is extraordinary. Leashed dogs are allowed in the meadow and on paved roads — the wide, flat landscape with the high Sierra peaks surrounding it is unlike anything in Yosemite Valley. Stop at Olmsted Point for sweeping views of Half Dome from the east, and Tenaya Lake for a glacial lake picnic with your pup. Once you crest Tioga Pass and descend the dramatic eastern escarpment, you’ll be on US-395 heading toward the Eastern Sierra.

Stop 3: Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is one of the most versatile dog-friendly mountain destinations in California — spectacular in every season. In summer, dozens of dog-friendly trails wind through the Lakes Basin among crystalline alpine lakes. In winter, snowshoeing through the Lakes Basin, visiting Convict Lake, and the eerie steam vents of Hot Creek Geological Site offer a completely different experience. Year-round, the Village is walkable and dog-welcoming with outdoor patios throughout.

Where to stay: Outbound Mammoth — cabin-style accommodations with kitchenette and fire pits. Up to 2 dogs, 100 lbs max, $50/night.

👉 Full details: 8 Winter Things to Do in Mammoth Lakes with Your Dog

Stop 4: Bishop & the Eastern Sierra

Bishop sits in the Owens Valley between the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains — a small city with big outdoor access and a strong dog-welcoming culture. The Bishop Creek Canyon area has several dog-friendly trails through aspen groves that turn blazing gold in fall. Laws Railroad Museum is an underrated outdoor stop where dogs are welcome on the grounds. This is also the gateway to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest — the oldest living trees on earth at nearly 5,000 years old, where dogs are allowed on leash on the main trails.

Stop 5: Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the gold standard Bay Area mountain weekend and the perfect capstone to this loop. Dogs are welcome on the vast majority of trails, multiple beaches have dog-friendly sections, and the mountain towns of South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, and Truckee all have strong dog-welcoming cultures. Spend at least two nights here — the combination of hiking, swimming in impossibly clear alpine water, and evening patio dining is hard to leave.

Where to stay: The Landing Resort & Spa in South Lake Tahoe — lakefront, dogs allowed inside Jimmy’s restaurant, no weight limit, $75/stay.

👉 Full details: Ultimate Dog-Friendly Guide to Lake Tahoe | 25+ Dog-Friendly Hikes in Lake Tahoe | 5-Day Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Route 5: The Desert Drive — Palm Springs & Joshua Tree 

~350 miles circular | 3–4 days | Best for: desert sunrises, stargazing & wide-open landscapes ⚠️ Best October through April. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F and are dangerous for dogs — paw pads can burn on hot sand and rock in seconds.

Southern California’s desert landscape is unlike anything else in the state, and it’s more dog-friendly than most people expect once you know where to go. The caveat is Joshua Tree National Park itself, where dogs are permitted on roads, in campgrounds, and at picnic areas but not on most trails. The surrounding desert towns more than compensate.

Stop 1: Palm Springs

Palm Springs is one of California’s most stylish destinations and a genuinely dog-welcoming city. The downtown strip along Palm Canyon Drive is walkable with leashed dogs and lined with restaurants that have dog-friendly patios. The Indian Canyons — palm-lined desert oases managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians — welcome leashed dogs on several trails, including Andreas Canyon Trail through a dramatic rock-lined gorge. The desert light and mountain backdrop here are extraordinary.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Palm Springs

Stop 2: Joshua Tree National Park & Scenic Drives

While trail access for dogs is limited inside Joshua Tree National Park, the park’s scenic drives are breathtaking and accessible by car. The Park Boulevard between the West and North entrances passes through the most iconic Joshua tree landscape, and dogs can join you at all roadside pull-offs, picnic areas, and campgrounds. The park is best at sunrise and sunset when the light on the boulders is otherworldly.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Joshua Tree National Park

Stop 3: Pioneertown

Just 20 minutes north of Joshua Tree, Pioneertown is one of the most unique stops in Southern California — a living movie set town built in the 1940s as a permanent backdrop for Western films. Mane Street is completely dog-friendly and walkable, and Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace — one of the most beloved music venues and restaurants in the California desert — has a large outdoor dining area that welcomes leashed dogs. A perfect evening stop after a day in the park.

Optional Detour: Coachella Valley Preserve

The Coachella Valley Preserve managed by the BLM protects a series of natural palm oases in the desert and allows leashed dogs on its trails — a rare opportunity for genuine dog-friendly desert hiking near Joshua Tree. 

Route 6: The Northern Wilderness Drive — Bay Area to Mt. Shasta & Dunsmuir 

~280 miles one way | 3–5 days | Best for: volcanic peaks, river canyons & off-the-beaten-path California

The most underrated drive on this list and the one that will make you feel the furthest from everyday life. Head north on I-5 past the Central Valley and the landscape transforms completely — pine forests, volcanic peaks, river canyons, and a series of small towns with genuine character. Most visitors to California never see this part of the state. That’s your advantage.

Stop 1: Redding — Gateway to the Wilderness

Redding serves as the gateway to the Northern California wilderness and offers more than most people give it credit for. The Sundial Bridge — a stunning glass-floored pedestrian bridge spanning the Sacramento River, designed by Santiago Calatrava — is a must-see, and the surrounding Turtle Bay Exploration Park has 20+ miles of trails where leashed dogs are welcome. Shasta Lake — the largest reservoir in California — is just 15 miles north of Redding, offering dog-friendly shoreline walks, boating, and kayaking. The scenery here is big and open in a way that’s distinctly different from coastal California.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Redding

Stop 2: Dunsmuir — The Sacramento River & Waterfall Town

Dunsmuir sits in a narrow canyon where the Sacramento River runs cold, clear, and famously excellent for fly fishing. The town itself is small and quirky, with a welcoming energy and some excellent dining options. The Sacramento River Trail through town is a beautiful morning dog walk along the river. Hedge Creek Falls is a short, easy trail to a waterfall with a cave behind it — dogs on leash, one of the most accessible waterfall hikes in Northern California. Mossbrae Falls — where the Sacramento River suddenly erupts from the canyon walls in a curtain of waterfalls — is one of the most beautiful sights in the state; check current trail access before going as the route crosses railroad tracks and access has been intermittent.

Where to stay: Cave Springs Resort — dog-friendly cottages right on the Sacramento River at excellent rates.

Stop 3: Mount Shasta — California’s Sacred Volcano

Mount Shasta is one of the most visually dramatic places in California — a 14,179-foot volcanic peak that dominates the landscape for 100 miles in every direction. The town at its base is charming and genuinely dog-welcoming, with boutique shops, excellent coffee, and a spiritual energy that’s hard to describe but easy to feel. Leashed dogs are welcome on many lower mountain trails including the Bunny Flat trailhead area at ~6,950 feet — stunning views of the mountain and surrounding wilderness accessible to anyone. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park about 50 miles east of Mount Shasta town is worth a dedicated side trip — the waterfall, which President Theodore Roosevelt called the eighth wonder of the world, is one of the most beautiful in California and dogs are allowed at the viewing area on leash.

Where to stay: Mount Shasta Resort welcomes dogs in their chalet accommodations.

👉 Full details: Dog-Friendly Guide to Dunsmuir & Mount Shasta

Route 7: The Redwoods Drive — San Francisco to the Redwood Coast 

~330 miles one way | 4–6 days | Best for: ancient forests, elk meadows & the wild Northern California coast

This route takes you to some of the most ancient and awe-inspiring landscapes on earth. The coastal redwoods of Northern California are the tallest living things on the planet — some standing for over 2,000 years — and leashed dogs can experience this world alongside you, even if trail access inside the parks is more restricted than you might hope. The strategy for this route is to maximize scenic drives through the ancient forests, combine them with dog-friendly beaches and coastal towns, and let the overall immensity of the landscape do the rest.

Stop 1: Mendocino & Fort Bragg

Start this route with a night in Mendocino before heading north — see Route 2 for details. Fort Bragg just north of Mendocino has the Coastal Trail running along dramatic cliffs and MacKerricher State Park where leashed dogs are welcome on the beach and some trails.

Stop 2: Avenue of the Giants — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

The Avenue of the Giants is a 32-mile scenic highway that runs parallel to US-101 through Humboldt Redwoods State Park — home to the largest remaining old-growth redwood forest in the world. This drive is the centerpiece of the entire route and absolutely extraordinary.

The critical thing to understand about dogs here: Leashed dogs are welcome in developed areas, campgrounds, and on park roads throughout Humboldt Redwoods — but they are not permitted on any hiking trails. The Avenue of the Giants itself is the experience for dogs; drive slowly, pull over at the numerous roadside stops, and let your pup stand among the giants from the roadsides and picnic areas. Don’t miss Founders Grove — home to some of the tallest trees on earth — and the Immortal Tree, a 950-year-old redwood that survived a lightning strike, floods, and logging attempts. Both have dog-accessible pull-offs.

For actual dog-friendly walking among redwoods in the area, Rohner Park in nearby Fortuna has well-maintained dog-friendly trails through beautiful redwoods — less famous than the state park but genuinely stunning and crowd-free.

The Drive-Thru Tree Park in Leggett is a privately owned park where your car (if compact enough) can drive through a 2,400-year-old Chandelier Tree. Dogs are welcome on the well-maintained lawn and grounds. Kitschy and joyful.

Stop 3: Eureka & Old Town

Eureka is Humboldt County’s largest city — a Victorian port town with a charming Old Town waterfront district, excellent seafood, and genuine dog-welcoming energy throughout. The Old Town Boardwalk along the bay is a lovely dog walk. Sequoia Park — a free city park adjacent to a small zoo — features walking paths through old-growth redwoods where leashed dogs are welcome. The Arcata Community Forest in nearby Arcata has miles of dog-friendly trails through a working community forest, including a designated off-leash area near Redwood Park.

Where to stay: Multiple dog-friendly lodging options in Eureka including the Carter House Inns — Victorian-era bed and breakfast where dogs are welcomed warmly.

Stop 4: Trinidad

Trinidad is a tiny, spectacular coastal town perched on dramatic bluffs above a rocky harbor — one of the most beautiful spots on the entire Northern California coast. The Trinidad State Beach allows leashed dogs and the Trinidad Head Trail Loop offers breathtaking ocean views on leash. The harbor seafood scene is excellent. If you only stop in one place between Eureka and the Redwood National Park boundary, make it Trinidad.

Stop 5: Redwood National & State Parks

The Redwood National and State Parks complex near Crescent City protects nearly 40 miles of coastline lined with the world’s tallest trees. Like Humboldt Redwoods, dogs are not permitted on most hiking trails — but they are welcome on roads, in campgrounds, at picnic areas, and on several key dog-accessible routes.

The best dog-friendly driving and walking routes here are Cal Barrel Road in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park — a 3-mile gravel road through old-growth forest open to walkers and leashed dogs. Walker Road Trail in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a 1.5-mile paved and dirt road leading down to the Smith River — exceptionally beautiful and worth the drive north.

Gold Bluffs Beach in Prairie Creek Redwoods allows leashed dogs on the beach, combining coastal scenery with the towering forest backdrop — one of the most striking natural settings in California. Crescent Beach near Crescent City also welcomes leashed dogs.

The BARK Ranger program at Redwood National and State Parks lets you and your pup take a pledge to be responsible park visitors and earn a BARK Ranger tag — visit any visitor center to participate.

Note: A dedicated Hello Ruby Doodle guide to the Avenue of the Giants and Redwood Coast is coming soon — check back for the full update.

Tips for Any California Road Trip with Your Dog

Highway 1 car sickness: The coastal sections of Highway 1 — particularly Big Sur and the approach to Mendocino — are winding and can cause car sickness in dogs and humans alike. For sensitive pups, consider the inland route for the longest winding sections and save Highway 1 for shorter segments. Talk to your vet about anti-nausea options if needed.

Summer heat in the desert and Sierra: Route 5 (Desert Drive) should only be attempted October through April with a dog. Temperatures in Joshua Tree and Palm Springs regularly exceed 110°F in summer and sand surface temperatures can burn paw pads in seconds. Route 4 (Sierra Loop) can also be hot in summer in the lower elevations around Yosemite — plan hikes for early morning.

Yosemite timed entry reservations: Yosemite requires advance reservations for day visitors during peak season (typically May–October). Book at recreation.gov as far in advance as possible — these sell out quickly.

Tioga Pass opening dates: Tioga Pass (Highway 120 east of Yosemite) typically opens late May but varies significantly by year. Check Caltrans QuickMap for current status.

Dog trail access at redwood parks: Neither Humboldt Redwoods State Park nor Redwood National and State Parks allow dogs on hiking trails. The strategy is scenic drives, dog-accessible roads, beaches, and campgrounds — all genuinely spectacular.

Bear safety in the Sierra: Routes 4 and 6 pass through active bear country. Keep your dog leashed on all trails, never leave food in your car at Yosemite and Tahoe, and use bear boxes at campgrounds. Check NPS bear safety guidance before heading into the Sierra.

Finding dog-friendly hikes en route: Use AllTrails and filter by “dogs allowed” at every destination before you go — trail conditions, leash requirements, and seasonal closures update regularly.

Packing: Bring a dedicated car towel for post-beach and post-hike cleanup, collapsible water bowl, extra leash, and more poop bags than you think you’ll need. Our full Dog-Friendly Travel Packing List covers everything.

FAQ: Dog-Friendly Road Trips in California

What is the most dog-friendly road trip in California? The Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego is the most searched and most iconic, offering the widest variety of dog-friendly stops across the full length of the state. For a more intimate and less-traveled experience, the Northern California Coast drive to Mendocino or the Wine Country Loop both deliver extraordinary dog-friendly experiences in 3–5 days.

Can I drive Highway 1 with my dog? Yes — Highway 1 is entirely driveable with a dog and many of its most iconic stops welcome leashed dogs on beaches and overlooks. Be aware that the Big Sur and Mendocino sections are very winding and can cause car sickness. Always check Caltrans QuickMap before driving Big Sur, as the road is subject to closures.

Are dogs allowed in California state parks? Yes, leashed dogs are generally allowed in California state parks in developed areas, campgrounds, and on some trails. However, trail access varies significantly by park — always check the individual park page at parks.ca.gov before visiting. Dogs are not allowed on trails at Humboldt Redwoods or the Redwood State Parks.

What national parks in California allow dogs on trails? Yosemite allows leashed dogs on paved trails including the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, and the paved trail to Glacier Point. Joshua Tree and Cabrillo National Monument have some dog access. Redwood National Park allows dogs on a small number of roads and beaches but not most trails. For the full breakdown, see our Dog-Friendly National Parks Guide.

What time of year is best for a California road trip with a dog? September through November is the sweet spot for most routes — sunny and warm at the coast, golden light in the Sierra, harvest season in wine country, and significantly fewer crowds than summer. Spring (March–May) is excellent for wildflowers and Big Sur waterfalls at peak flow. Avoid summer for the Desert Drive (Route 5) — the heat is dangerous for dogs.

Is it safe to road trip with a dog in California in summer? For coastal and mountain routes, yes — with sensible precautions. For the desert routes, no — temperatures in Joshua Tree and Palm Springs regularly exceed 110°F and can be deadly for dogs. Always check forecasts, hike in the early morning, bring more water than you think you need, and never leave your dog in a parked car.

How do I find dog-friendly hotels along a California road trip? Our Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Northern California roundup covers 17 vetted properties across all the NorCal routes in this guide. Always confirm pet policies directly with any hotel before booking — fees, weight limits, and room availability change frequently.

Planning a specific route? Drop your questions in the comments — we’re happy to help with itinerary details. And for a visual overview of everywhere we’ve explored in California with Ruby, check out our Dog-Friendly California Map.