We all understand how stressful it can be at work, and sometimes we just need to have a nice weekend getaway to help relieve the stress. One of the best and the most beautiful places that you can go to is, of course, Yosemite! And can you imagine how great it will be to bring your fido along?
Read More:
- 10 Best Hiking Dogs
- 9 Best Small Dogs for Hiking
- The Complete Dog Hiking Gear List
- Yosemite rules for hiking with dog
Yes, you are reading this right! You can take your dog to Yosemite. There are some trails that are dog friendly, which we will discuss in the below. But before we do that, ensure to take a look at the complete guide of hiking with your dog to make your trip more enjoyable.
Here are the 7 best dog friendly hiking trails in Yosemite National Park.
1. Bridalveil Falls
This is a short and easy 0.5 mile trail known for its drenching mists. Your dog is going to love this place.
It is fully paved and takes you to the base of the stunning 620 feet fall.
I wouldn’t recommend going there during summer as it is often dry that time and best to visit in early spring which the fall will be at its peak.
- Trail Type : Out-and-Back
- Distance : Approximately 0.9 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty : 2 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : 200 feet
- Dogs : Allowed
2. Lower Yosemite Falls
This is an easy loop trail, 1 mile long and open all year round.
It will lead you to the Yosemite Falls which is the tallest waterfall in North America. One thing to note is that the trail can get icy in winter, so be careful if you plan to go there that season.
You will also expect to get a little bit wet near the base, but overall, it is very rewarding.
And just like all waterfalls in Yosemite, the best time to view is in spring.
- Trail Type : Loop
- Distance : Approximately 1.0 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty : 1 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : Marginal
- Dogs : Allowed
3. Tunnel View
This is not really a hiking trail but worth mentioning because it is a popular lookout point where you can enjoy the iconic view with your dog.
It offers you an amazing view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, and Half Dome in the background, making this one of the best spots for your family photos.
It is located at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel.
- Trail Type : Lookout point only
- Distance : N/A
- Difficulty : 1 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : Marginal
- Dogs : Allowed
4. Glacier Point
Personally, I think this is the best and a must visit spot in Yosemite.
It is about an hour drive away from the valley and only accessible from May until November.
0.6 mile walk to the lookout and expect to see the beautiful Half Dome, Clouds Rest, Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, as well as the Vernal and Nevada Falls.
It will get very crowded before sunrise, so make sure you come here early to get yourself a nice spot.
- Trail Type : Out-and-back
- Distance : Approximately 0.6 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty : 1 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : None
- Dogs : Allowed
5. Mirror Lake
This trail starts from shuttle stop #17 and unfortunately, dogs are only allowed on the first mile of the trail.
It will lead you to the mirror lake where you will expect a breathtaking view of the cliff reflections.
However, it is not recommended to go during summer as the lake will most likely be dry.
- Trail Type : Out-and-back
- Distance : Approximately 2 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty : 2 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : 100 feet
- Dogs : Allowed
6. Cook’s Meadow Loop
Just like its name indicates, this is a loop trail surrounded by the beautiful meadow.
It is 1 mile long which will take about 15 to 45 minutes to complete depending on your pace.
Offering you a great view of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and Sentinel Rock.
- Trail Type : Loop
- Distance : Approximately 0.8 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty : 2 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : None
- Dogs : Allowed
7. Wawona Meadow Loop
Unlike most trails in the list, it offers you a longer hike with your dog.
3.5 mile long loop that starts from the golf course across from Wawona Hotel. Mostly shaded by trees and you will also see beautiful wildflowers in spring!
- Trail Type : Loop
- Distance : Approximately 3.5 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty : 2 out of 10 (Easy)
- Elevation Gain : None
- Dogs : Allowed
Rules in Yosemite National Park
And just before we wrap up, there are rules that you need to understand and follow to protect other people, your furry friend, as well as the native wildlife.
- Dogs are only allowed in developed areas, on paved roads, sidewalks and bicycle paths. You can also bring your dog to all campgrounds and group campsites, except walk-in campgrounds such as Camp 4.
- Dogs are not allowed in wilderness areas, public buildings, on shuttle buses, unplowed roads covered in snow, and most lodging areas except the ones that are dog friendly such as Tenaya Lodge.
- Make sure to put your dog on a leash with no more than 6 feet long at all times and they should never be left unattended.
I hope you find this helpful and enjoy your trip to Yosemite!
