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
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 8308 Wawona Rd., Wawona, CA 95389 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 24 hours |
| 💲 Cost: | $20–$35/week Yosemite entrance fee |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
2. Mirror Lake Paved Trail
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 Happy Isles Lp Rd., Yosemite Valley, CA 95389 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 24 hours |
| 💲 Cost: | $20–$35/week Yosemite entrance fee |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
3. Bridalveil Falls Trail
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 Southside Dr. and Wawona Rd., Yosemite Village, CA 95389 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 24 hours |
| 💲 Cost: | $20–$35/week Yosemite entrance fee |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
4. Lower Yosemite Falls Loop
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 Lower Yosemite Fall Trl, Northside Dr., Yosemite Valley, CA 95389 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 24 hours |
| 💲 Cost: | $20–$35/week Yosemite entrance fee |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
5. Cook’s Meadow Loop
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 9305 Village Dr., Yosemite Valley, CA 95389 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 24 hours |
| 💲 Cost: | $20–$35/week Yosemite entrance fee |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
6. Chowchilla Mountain Road
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍 8308 Wawona Rd., Wawona, CA 95389 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 24 hours |
| 💲 Cost: | $20–$35/week Yosemite entrance fee |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | No |
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.
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Featured Image Credit: Benny Marty, Shutterstock
