Top 5 Dog-Friendly Activities in North Tahoe
North Tahoe Is A Dog-Friendly Paradise
Planning a trip to Lake Tahoe with your furry friend in tow? It’s a good idea to map out your itinerary in advance, as dogs are not allowed on many of the beaches and trails scattered around Lake Tahoe’s northern shores. However, there are still a ton of places where you can enjoy nature with your dog as well as a few spots around town where you can partake in a delicious meal in a dog-friendly atmosphere.
If you’re hoping to have the trip of a lifetime with your best friend by your side, we’ve got you covered with a list of our 5 best dog-friendly activities in North Lake Tahoe.
Go for a Doggy Paddle at Carnelian West Beach
There are a total of 4 beaches in Tahoe where dogs are allowed, but if your trip has taken you to the northern shore, we highly recommend stopping at Carnelian West Beach in Carnelian Bay for a wonderful time with your pup. Plan out a nice picnic for you and your furry friend and make your way over to the parking lot, which is shared with Gar Woods and Grill. There are several private picnic areas, each equipped with their own grill. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon enjoying the views and quality time with your furry friend.
Be warned that like most beaches in Tahoe, this one is quite rocky, so look after your dog’s paws to ensure they don’t hurt themselves. There are public restrooms available and a large patch of grass where your pup can relieve themselves as well. Be a considerate pet owner and don’t forget to pick up after your dog.
Snowshoe and Cross-Country Ski With Your Pup at These Dog-Friendly Snow Parks
If you’re visiting with your pup during the chilly winter months, there are still a few dog-friendly activities you can partake in. While you may have to leave your dog at your accommodation when you go up the mountain to ski or snowboard, there are a handful of snow parks in town where you can enjoy the great outdoors with your best furry friend.
For instance, Tahoe XC near Dollar Point offers 9 total kilometers of dog-friendly cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails, though you will have to purchase them a separate ticket to grant them entrance to the park. In addition to Tahoe XC, the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park also offers a dog-friendly cross country skiing experience and provides free bags to help you clean up after your dog.
Take Your Pup on Some of These Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails
For those who are visiting during the summertime and want to take their dog on a fun outdoor adventure, there are plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails scattered around Lake Tahoe’s north shore. In Tahoe City, for example, the Paige Meadows hike is a popular 3.1 mile trail where dogs are not only allowed, they can even be off-leash in some areas. Once you arrive at the trail’s crest, you’ll be rewarded with views of mid-summer wildflowers and endless mountain views.
Another great dog-friendly trail in North Lake Tahoe that spans two states is the 1.7 mile Stateline Lookout trail, located near Crystal Bay. This hike has quite a few paved sections and it ends at an old fire lookout that offers incredible vistas of the lake and the mountains beyond. Dogs must be leashed on this trail and always be sure to clean up after them.
Enjoy a Bite to Eat at These Dog-Friendly Restaurants
Although your restaurant options may be a bit more limited if you’re bringing your dog along, there are a number of dog-friendly eateries in the North Lake Tahoe area. If you’re hoping to jump into some water sports after chowing down, you must check out Waterman’s Landing Cafe in Carnelian Bay. They offer a dog-friendly atmosphere and a menu full of delicious coffee, breakfast, and lunch items that will sate your appetite.
For dinner, check out Moe’s Original BBQ, located right on the waterfront in Tahoe City. Their menu of tasty barbeque, sides, and beers are all top-notch and you can catch a free set of live music every Sunday during the summertime. Spoon, also located in Tahoe City, is another great dog-friendly restaurant that you should check out–they serve some amazingly upscale comfort food that you’ll fall in love with.
Get Your Pup a Treat at Scraps Dog Bakery in Tahoe City
After a long day of Lake Tahoe activities with your pup, reward them with a specially-made treat from Scraps Dog Bakery in Tahoe City. This pet supply store and dog bakery is a favorite amongst both visitors and locals alike, with an array of treats available for your furry friend. You can also find an assortment of pet supplies, like toys, harnesses, leashes, and other necessities here, should you need to replace anything during your Tahoe trip. Don’t forget to say hello to the shop dog while you’re visiting this cute little dog bakery.
Explore More North Lake Tahoe Activities
Bringing your dog to Lake Tahoe is one way to make memories with them that will last a lifetime. Thankfully, there are a ton of things you can do with your dog while you’re spending time in North Lake Tahoe.
While you’re in town, check out some of our other travel guides, like our solo summer Lake Tahoe guide or our list of the best breweries, tap houses, and wine bars in the North Lake Tahoe area.