The Eastern Sierra's have been one of my favorite places to explore since moving back to California! About 4-6 hours drive from LA, it makes for a good weekend trip or extended vacation. Some of my favorite hikes and places to explore are highlighted below!
Trail Distance: 1.7 miles
Elevation Gain: None
Terrain Rating: Very Easy
Hike Time: ~1 hour
Dog Friendly: Yes
Trail Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~900'
Terrain Rating: Easy (Switchbacks)
Hike Time: ~3 hours
Dog Friendly: Yes
Trail Distance: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: ~700'
Terrain Rating: Easy Side of Moderate
Hike Time: 2 hours
Dog Friendly: Yes
Trail Distance: 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,000'
Terrain Rating: Easy Side of Moderate
Hike In: 10:30AM
Hike Out: 1:30PM
Dog Friendly: Yes
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most dog friendly cities in the U.S. The town sits about 2 hours south of SF, on your way down to Big Sur along the Pacific Coast Highway. I've been coming here since I was 5 years old, running down the cobblestone sidewalks and playing at the beach. It's one of the my favorite weekend activities. Here are some of my favorite things to do (with or without a pup!)
Trail Distance: ~6 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,500'
Terrain Rating: Moderate
Hike Time: 3 hours
The Dipsea Trail is a popular trail in Muir Woods and Mount Tamalpais State Park, just one hour north of San Francisco. This 7 mile trail goes from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach, meandering through lush forest and up to sweeping views. There are many ways to cut through other nearby trails to create a nice day hike away from the city.
The Lost Coast is a 53-mile route along Northern California’s rugged coast untouched by Highway 1. The hike is split into two sections, one from Mattel River to Shelter Cove, and the other from Hidden Valley to Sinkyone Wilderness State Park. We set out for the 25 mile northern section which hugs the coastline for most of the way. Most people will travel North to South to keep the wind at their backs.
