Welcome to Paw Press, DogTrekker.com’s update on what’s happening in the dog world. We cover doggie events that we attend; provide updates on where we've been; inform you of new, dog-passionate lodging packages; and keep current with dog advocates' on-going battles to maintain and grow access to dog-friendly areas. Occasionally, we also throw in a few howls and barks from the editors and managing partners of DogTrekker.
As always, let us know what you think about our coverage and let us know how DogTrekker can help make life more rewarding for you and your pups.
Fall hiking.
Where, oh where did the summer go? If your annual family camping trip (including your pup, of course) didn’t quite come together this year, fear not: There’s still time. While campgrounds during this first post-pandemic summer were filled to the gills, demand is sure to slow after back-to-school and Labor Day.
Here’s how to plan for a safe and fun time for all:
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Frankie & Storm hiking in the Eastern Sierra Nevada. Photo by Stephanie Clemens.
Looking for a road trip that will have your dog wagging her tail the whole way? Free up four or more days for a leisurely junket on the federally designated Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway (Highway 395). It runs 150 miles between Topaz, just over the state line in Nevada, and Bishop in Southern California, skirting the Eastern flank of the Sierra Nevada, including our friends at Mammoth Lakes. The views are stunning, traffic is (usually) light and there’s much to explore along the way.
Here’s our DogTrekking guide:
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Home to towering waterfalls and 200-foot-tall giant sequoias, there’s no place like Yosemite. And Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite puts you just two miles from Yosemite National Park.
A DogTrekker favorite, Tenaya specializes in memorable Sierra moments for the entire family, including your four-legged friend.
Way out in the land of the giants, you can enjoy a wonderful Sierra escape packed with family-friendly fun. A Tenaya vacation in Yosemite proves that some tall tales are true.
Read on for tips for your visit:
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Please support our sponsors
Your dog deserves a vacation too! The Little River Inn is rolling out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged companions with their dog kayaking packages.
Enjoy a two-night stay in a pet-friendly Ocean View room, pet-friendly dining, and dog-friendly kayaking either on the ocean off Van Damme beach with sea cave tours, or up the Big River Estuary on a redwood outrigger. more »
Updated 7/29/22
Our friends at the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau shared the latest with us.
The Oak Fire started Friday, July 27 on Carstens Road near Highway 140 in the town of Midpines. As of this morning, Oak Fire stands at 19,208 acres with 45% containment and Highway 140 has reopened.
Highway 140 which takes travelers from the towns of Merced, Mariposa and Midpines to the western entrance of Yosemite and El Portal reopened Tuesday, July 26. For people using that corridor, please drive carefully. There are still a number of emergency vehicles traveling through the area.
In Yosemite National Park, the town of Wawona, its lodging and services reopened on July 28. Wawona has been closed to visitors since July 8 when the town was evacuated due to the Washburn Fire. The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and the Wawona Campground will remain closed until further notice. As of today, the Washburn Fire is 91% contained.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite has remained open during these fire events. more »
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The 11th annual Walk for Animals event benefiting Napa Valley's companion animals is not only the community's largest pet-friendly event, it's also Napa Humane's biggest annual fundraiser.
Registered walkers will receive a goodie bag, access to the silent auction held the day of Walk, events and more as we come together virtually to raise funds for Napa Humane – serving Napa Valley pets and their people.
The walk will begin and end at Napa's Oxbow Commons. Registration is now open, explore the various ways you can participate! more »
Photo by Visit Mammoth.
There are few spots better to vacation with your dog than majestic Mammoth Lakes. The landscape is breathtaking, the adventures are epic, and the people, trails, and accommodations couldn’t be more dog-friendly. So whether you’re looking for a winter excursion or a summer mountain escape, here are some activities to consider with your dog in Mammoth Lakes. more »
The Skunk Train steams into the redwood forest. Photo by Robert Jason Pinoli.
Summer is a time for family vacations, and whether it’s a multi-day trip or daytrip, not much can get children more excited or add to the memory bank than a train ride.
“Family” incudes dogs of course, and there are many dog-friendly “all aboard!” choo-choo options in California. Here are a few of our favorites, including some tail-wagging surprises. This issue is powered by Mendocino County’s Skunk Train.
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Dog-friendly Dorcich Family Vineyard. Photo by Visit Gilroy.
Follow your nose (as well as your dog’s) to the Garlic Capital of the World! Gilroy California is a great place for a getaway with your four-legged friend. You’ll find plenty of dog-friendly places to stay, including hotels and RV parks, with room to run around and relax. Gilroy also has many dog-friendly restaurants and wineries that welcome pets in outdoor areas. And there are numerous hiking trails and parks for you to explore together.
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Standing guard at Point Cabrillo Light Station. Photo by Visit Mendocino County.
In sun-dappled Mendocino County, summer is in full swing! You’ll find plenty of room to roam here, whether you venture to the coast for cool, clear air, or head inland for winery patios and exciting events. DogTrekkers love Mendocino’s fun, sun and open spaces, and that’s why we’ve written more than 120 destination stories about exceptional lodging and dining options plus unique experiences on the ground, in the water, and on the trails and rails.
Here are some of our readers’ Mendocino County favorites:
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