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Among the most popular national parks in the U.S., Yosemite is known for its gorgeous scenery and amazing rock climbing, especially the famous El Capitan. Visitors traveling with pets will be happy to learn that dogs are allowed in many areas of the park, but finding places to hike can be a bit more complicated. Dogs are banned from most unpaved trails in Yosemite to protect the ecosystem, but you still have options if you want to hike with your pup. Here are six dog-friendly trails in Yosemite in 2023.
The 6 Dog-Friendly Trails in Yosemite
1. Wawona Meadows Loop
5-mile, mostly flat dirt road loop trail
Lots of shade
Can get muddy after rain/snow
Located near a hotel and restaurant
Entrance fee per car or per person if entering on foot
2. Mirror Lake Paved Trail
A 2.4-mile paved trail around a lake
Flat and kid-friendly
Can get crowded
A parking lot is located near the trailhead
3. Bridalveil Falls Trail
Short, 0.5-mile paved loop to view one of Yosemite’s most famous waterfalls
Flat, kid-friendly path that can get slippery in places
Parking lot and trail can get very crowded
The trail is currently closed for a rehab project, scheduled to reopen in Summer 2023
Don’t leave the trail to explore, especially near the waterfall
4. Lower Yosemite Falls Loop
Short, 1.0-mile paved loop with multiple views of a 320-foot waterfall
Park at Yosemite Falls or Yosemite Village lots, just up the road
Stroller-friendly and wheelchair accessible on the east side
The path can get slippery and icy
Waterfall may be dry from late summer until October—plan accordingly
5. Cook’s Meadow Loop
Short, 1.0-mile paved loop with views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock
Stroller and wheelchair-friendly unless covered in snow
Located near the visitor center, museum, and a restaurant
Park at Yosemite Falls or Yosemite Village lots
Restrooms and water are available at the Visitor Center
6. Chowchilla Mountain Road
An old stagecoach road located within Yosemite National Park
Parking is easiest at Wawona Visitor Center
The trail can be rough and steep in places
No facilities or water along the route
Off-road vehicles are allowed at certain times of the year
Conclusion
These six dog-friendly trails in Yosemite allow you to view (and take photos) of your pup near many of the park’s most famous sites. Besides these locations, dogs are generally allowed at campgrounds and along paved roads within Yosemite. If you’re looking for more outdoor exploration, the nearby Sierra National Forest and Stanislaus National Forest allow leashed dogs to enjoy the trails. Bring water and waste bags on your hike, and always pick up after your pet. Be alert and respectful of other visitors, as well as local wildlife.
Featured Image Credit: Benny Marty, Shutterstock
Written by
Elizabeth Gray is a lifelong lover of all creatures great and small. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge (literally–she has scars) with our readers. Elizabeth lives in Iowa with her family, including her two fur kids, Linnard, a husky mix and Algernon, the worldʻs most patient cat. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.…Read more
