Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking destination known for its towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and serene meadows but did you know it is also one of the more dog friendly National Parks in California? Our dog friendly Yosemite itinerary will help you to plan the ultimate adventure for you and your pup.
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Our Dog Friendly Yosemite Itinerary
When we took Tinkerbell and Maple on their first Yosemite adventure, we wanted to ensure they could safely enjoy the park while respecting its natural wonders. Here’s everything we learned about planning a dog-friendly Yosemite National Park trip, including where to hike, stay, and what to know before you go.
Dogs are allowed in developed areas, campgrounds, and on paved paths. However, they’re not permitted on most trails, wilderness areas, or shuttles. While this sounds very restrictive, there are actually quite a few scenic developed areas and even some trails that will allow you to explore Yosemite with your dog and not feel like you missed out. Following our guide will allow you and your pup to see major highlights, such as Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, the Giant Sequoias of Tuolomne grove, a high altitude alpine lake and stunning waterfalls.
Day 1: Dog Friendly Yosemite Valley Adventures
One of our first stops was the Yosemite Valley Bike Loop, a paved path that winds through the heart of the valley.
This 12-mile loop is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with stunning views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome around every corner. Maple had the time of her life, sniffing every plant and rock along the way, while Tinkerbell trotted confidently beside her, occasionally stopping to give a curious bark at passing squirrels.
Short on Time? Follow the Red Loop
We recommend to start the trail at the Yosemite Chapel – there is plenty of parking along the road here – and then cross the Merced River to get to the Cook’s Meadow Loop. Here you can see amazing views of El Capitan, Sentinel Rock as well as Sentinel and Cook’s Meadow. If you have only limited time, you can close up the loop by going west to Leidig Meadow and then making your way back to the chapel. This is the red loop in the above map.
More Time Available? Follow the Teal Loop
If you have a full day to explore Yosemite Valley, we recommend continuing on east to Yosemite Village. Here you can grab a coffee or picnic before making your way to Mirror Lake. The walk to Mirror Lake will give you spectacular views of Half Dome and the paved trail along Mirror Lake is dog-friendly, too. However, keep in mind that Mirror Lake’s water levels are dependent on weather and the season. In the summer, the lake will oftentimes be without water.
From Mirror Lake, make your way over to Curry Village. You can grab a pizza at the Curry Village Pizza Deck, the outdoor patio is dog-friendly. From there, you can take a leisurely stroll back to the chapel. This longer loop is marked in teal in the map above.
What we loved most about this trail was its flexibility – you can shorten or lengthen the route based on your dog’s energy level and your time schedule. We highly recommend to get a detailed map of Yosemite as the free one you get from the park does not show the bike trail in much detail. We use this one from National Geographic and love it.
Day 2 Morning: Glacier Point Road and Wawona Meadows with your Dog
To continue your dog friendly Yosemite itinerary, start your second day at Glacier Point. This is a must-visit viewpoint that showcases panoramic views of the valley below, including iconic landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. The paved 0.5-mile trail to the viewpoint was easy for both Maple and Tinkerbell, though Tinkerbell needed frequent breaks to marvel at the passing birds. We took turns walking the dogs at the viewpoint so each of us could enjoy the stunning vistas and snap some photos without worrying about leashes tangling. This was easily the highlight of our dog friendly Yosemite itinerary and hence, we highly recommend to take the time and visit Glacier Point – even if it seems out of the way.
The road to Glacier Point is subject to seasonal closures, so make sure to confirm the status of the road before going. The drive along the road is simply stunning and you can stop by another scenic viewpoint: Washburn Point.
After Glacier Point, follow Wawona Road south and stop by Wawona Hotel and Golf Course. This historic hotel features the scenic Wawona Meadow Loop. This 3.5-mile dog friendly trail is quieter and more secluded than other parts of the park. Surrounded by wildflowers and gentle meadows, it was the perfect place for the dogs to sniff around. Maple, ever energetic, led the way, occasionally pausing to sniff the breeze or roll in the grass. We even saw a bobcat along the trail which startled Tinkerbell for a moment. The meadows provided a calming contrast to Yosemite’s dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
After completing the loop, you can continue your dog friendly Yosemite itinerary in the north section of the park. While driving over there, we highly recommend to stop at Tunnel View, one of the most iconic view points of Yosemite Valley. For lunch, stop by the Curry Village Pizza Deck in Yosemite Valley.
Day 2 Afternoon: Dog friendly Itinerary for Tuolumne Grove and Lake Tenaya
The northern part of Yosemite National Park also has areas that you should include into your dog friendly Yosemite itinerary. One of the more secluded areas we explored was the Old Big Oak Flat Road, a 2-mile paved path passing along the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. This trail is a hidden gem for dog owners looking to escape the busier parts of Yosemite. Walking under the towering sequoias felt like stepping into another world. Once we reached the grove, we found a shady spot to sit and take turns of walking the trails into the grove as only the paved sections are dog friendly.
After you finish up at Tuolomne Grove, make sure to keep following Tioga Road. Please note that this road is subject to seasonal closures, so make sure to check the road status before planning your visit. We have an entire article about an epic Tioga Pass Road Trip Itinerary highlighting dog friendly and non-dog-friendly stops along the way.
If you do not have time for an entire road trip, we highly recommend to at least make time for a visit to Tenaya Lake, one of Yosemite’s most stunning alpine lakes. While dogs aren’t allowed on the sandy beaches, the paved sidewalk along the shoreline offered incredible views of the crystal-clear water and surrounding mountains. Maple loved walking along the lake and soaking in the mountain air. This last stop on our dog friendly Yosemite itinerary is ideal to enjoy the sunset before heading back to camp.
Dining with Your Dog in Yosemite
While Yosemite’s dining options are limited, there are a few ways to enjoy meals with your pup:
- Picnic Areas: The park has several picnic areas where dogs are welcome. We loved the ones near Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point for their stunning views.
- Curry Village Pizza Deck: Pizza Deck in Yosemite Valley serves up fresh pizzas with dog friendly outdoor seating. This is a must-stop to include into your dog friendly Yosemite itinerary.
- Village Store: Grab sandwiches, snacks, and drinks here, and enjoy a meal outdoors with your furry friend.
- Dog Friendly Patios (Nearby): If you’re staying outside the park, many cafes and restaurants in Mariposa and Groveland have dog friendly outdoor seating.
Dog Friendly Camping and Hotels Around Yosemite
For our dog friendly Yosemite adventure, we spent our time boondocking close to Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance in the Stanislaus National Forest. There are many fantastic boondocking spots in the National Forest that are both free and dog friendly. Plus, the starry skies were unreal – definitely a perk of staying outside the park! If you are interested in learning how we find free boondocking campsites, check out this article: How We Find Epic Free Campsites: A Guide for Thrifty Travelers
If you prefer something with amenities, Yosemite has several dog friendly campgrounds, like Hodgdon Meadow Campground, which is close to the entrance and a great base for exploring.
In case camping isn’t your style, here are some dog friendly hotels and short-term rental options:
- Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite: A luxurious resort just outside the south entrance, offering pet-friendly rooms and amenities like dog beds and treats.
- AutoCamp Yosemite: Offers glamping tents, tiny homes and airstream lodging. Dogs are allowed.
- Airbnb / VRBO Options: Many rentals near Groveland and Mariposa welcome pets, often with fenced yards for added convenience, e.g. the Breckenridge Chalet, sleeps 6 & dog friendly
Know Before You Go On Your Dog Friendly Yosemite Itinerary
The B.A.R.K. Ranger Principles: Keeping Yosemite Dog Friendly
Before you enjoy your dog friendly Yosemite itinerary, let’s talk about the B.A.R.K. Ranger principles – essential guidelines for responsibly visiting Yosemite with your pup.
- Bag your dog’s waste: Always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste in bear-proof trash bins.
- Always leash your dog: Yosemite requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
- Respect wildlife: Keep your dog at a safe distance from all wildlife. Curious pups can stress animals and disrupt their habitats.
- Know where dogs are allowed: Dogs are welcome in developed areas, campgrounds, and on paved paths, but not on most hiking trails or in wilderness areas.
Following these principles ensures that Yosemite remains a welcoming place for dog owners while protecting its fragile ecosystem.
Understanding Yosemite’s Reservation System
Before you pack your bags, it’s important to note that Yosemite operates with a reservation system during peak seasons, typically from late May through September. This helps manage the park’s popularity and ensures that visitors can enjoy its beauty without overcrowding. Reservations are required for entry during these months, and it’s best to book early, as slots fill up quickly. You can obtain your reservation on Recreation.gov
The entry fee for Yosemite is $35 per vehicle, granting access for seven consecutive days. If you’re a frequent park-goer, we highly recommend the America the Beautiful Pass, which covers all national parks for a year at $80.
Tips for a Successful Dog Friendly Yosemite Itinerary
Traveling with dogs in Yosemite requires some extra planning to make sure everyone has a great time. Packing essentials like collapsible water bowls, plenty of waste bags, and a sturdy 6ft leash is key. We also brought a cozy blanket for the dogs to rest on during picnic breaks, which they appreciated after long walks.
Timing your visit is another important consideration. Spring and fall are ideal, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it more comfortable for dogs. During summer, it’s best to stick to early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the heat. Wildlife awareness is crucial as well – keeping your dogs leashed not only protects them but also ensures they don’t disturb Yosemite’s diverse animal population.
FAQs About Your Dog Friendly Yosemite Itinerary
Are dogs allowed in Yosemite National Park?
Dogs are allowed in developed areas, campgrounds, and on paved paths. However, they’re not permitted on most trails, wilderness areas, or shuttles. Here are some of the dog friendly hikes and walks in Yosemite that will make your dog friendly Yosemite itinerary perfect:
– Wawona Meadows Loop
– Old Big Oak Flat Road which will lead you along the Tuolumne Sequoia grove (the trails through the grove are NOT dog-friendly)
– Glacier Point Viewpoint
– Yosemite Valley Bike Loop, which you can combine with the paved trails to Lower Yosemite Falls and Mirror Lake
– Bridalvail Falls
– The paved side walk along Tenaya Lake
What’s the best time of year to visit Yosemite with dogs?
Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a successful dog friendly Yosemite itinerary. Be aware that before June and after October you might encounter road closures outside of Yosemite Valley.
Are dogs allowed in Yosemite campgrounds?
Yes! Most campgrounds allow dogs, but walk-in sites and group camps do not. Be sure to check specific rules for each campground.
Are there dog-friendly hikes in Yosemite?
Yes, the Wawona Meadow Loop is a dog friendly trail in Yosemite. You can also take the Yosemite Valley Bike Loop or the Old Big Oak Flat Road for long walks. Dogs must stay on paved paths and be leashed at all times.
Is boondocking with dogs near Yosemite safe?
Yes, but always check for local regulations and keep your dog close to avoid encounters with wildlife. Stanislaus National Forest is a great option for dog-friendly boondocking.
What should I pack for my dog friendly Yosemite itinerary?
Bring plenty of water, a collapsible bowl, waste bags, a sturdy leash, and a cozy bed or blanket for camping. Don’t forget to pack food and any necessary medications!
Are there dog friendly hotels near Yosemite?
Yes, here are some dog friendly hotels and short-term rental options:
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite: A luxurious resort just outside the south entrance, offering pet-friendly rooms and amenities like dog beds and treats.
AutoCamp Yosemite: Offers glamping tents, tiny homes and airstream lodging. Dogs are allowed.
Airbnb / VRBO Options: Many rentals near Groveland and Mariposa welcome pets, often with fenced yards for added convenience, e.g. the Breckenridge Chalet, sleeps 6 & dog friendly
Final Thoughts: Yosemite with Your Pups
Yosemite is truly one of the most magical places we’ve ever explored with Maple and Tinkerbell. While visiting with dogs requires some extra planning and sticking to specific areas, the memories we made strolling under giant sequoias, watching waterfalls, and relaxing under the stars were priceless.
If you’re ready to experience Yosemite with your furry friend, this dog friendly Yosemite itinerary will help you make the most of your adventure while keeping it safe, fun, and dog-friendly. Enjoy the beauty of Yosemite – and don’t forget to give your pup a big belly rub for being the best adventure buddy!
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