The seven counties that make up California’s Gold Country cover a lifetime’s worth of territory to explore with your dog. In fall, we’re partial to the Apple Hill region of El Dorado County, where dozens of family-owned farms and wineries welcome DogTrekkers with open arms.
In summer, the hiking is especially good around Nevada City, where the Wild & Scenic South Yuba River offers swimming holes and splash spots galore. Two of our favorite paths, the Independence Trail and Butterfield Bend trail, lie within the 20-mile stretch of riverfront belonging to South Yuba River State Park. The Highway 4 corridor in Calaveras County is another Ruff ‘n’ Ready destination for DogTrekkers.
Photo: "Pie Shop" by Scott Schrantz (CC)