If you’re headed to Yosemite National Park, you don’t have to leave your faithful friend at home. There are plenty of ways to enjoy Yosemite with your canine by your side. My family enjoyed a day trip to the park and as first-time visitors, we felt like we covered a lot of ground.
We began our day with a walk to Mirror Lake and later enjoyed multiple waterfalls. We ate lunch with a view of the Lower Yosemite Fall as our pooch snoozed at our feet. It perfectly combined the national park experience with spending time with our dog during the family trip.
In Yosemite dogs are allowed on fully paved roads, sidewalks and bicycle paths. There are over 12 miles of paved bike path in the park. Families with strollers or group members who have mobility issues will appreciate the paved paths as well. Dogs are allowed in most campgrounds and picnic areas.
Common sense rules apply. A dog must be kept on a leash that is no more than six feet, you must clean up after your pet and of course, don’t leave it alone. There are many lookout vantage points like the Tunnel View where we were just a few steps away from the car and our dog was able to stay in his kennel. Otherwise there are strict rules about leaving your pet unattended to protect your dog and the park animals. Park rangers do patrol the dirt trails (we saw it firsthand) so if you think you can sneak your pet onto a trail, you’ve been cautioned.
Yosemite is a huge park and it will take many more visits before I could even imagine seeing all of it. But if you are looking for a day trip with beautiful views where you can spend quality time with your furry companion, Yosemite is a great option.
Paved Trails
Mirror Lake trail- 2 miles
Cooks Meadow trail- 2.5 miles
Lower Yosemite Fall- 1 mile
Tunnel View- beautiful lookout
Bridalveil Falls .5 miles to fall and paths in the surrounding area
Check out:
Yosemite Pines RV Resort
20450 Old Highway 120
Groveland, CA 95321
https://yosemitepinesrv.com/
22 miles to Yosemite’s West entrance
This campground has yurts, cabins, covered wagons, rv rentals and tent and rv-spaces. Some of the vast amenities the property includes are a large swimming pool, petting farm, weekend movies, onsite shower/laundry/store, and playground. The resort is clean, the staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. The town of Groveland is worth exploring too!
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