Lake Tahoe isn’t just dog-friendly- it’s dog-obsessed. From crystal-clear alpine beaches to snowy trail systems and patios with dog menus (yes, really), this mountain-lake playground makes it easy to travel with your pup without sacrificing adventure. Whether you’re planning a summer splash fest or a winter snow-day escape, Lake Tahoe offers endless pet-friendly things to do, places to eat, and cozy lodges where dogs are treated like VIP guests. Here’s how to plan the ultimate dog-friendly Lake Tahoe vacation, season by season. As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support. Planning Your Dog-Friendly Lake Tahoe Trip Lake Tahoe spans California and Nevada, with distinct vibes depending on where you stay. Before booking, decide: Summer vs. winter travel South Lake Tahoe vs. North Lake Tahoe Whether your focus is beaches, hiking, snow play, or relaxation Good news: there are 40+ pet-friendly hotels in Lake Tahoe, so once you choose your base, everything else falls into place. Regan Beach Summer Fun in Dog-Friendly Lake Tahoe Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Lake Tahoe South Lake Tahoe Kiva Beach A local favorite and one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Tahoe. Leashed dogs can roam the wide shoreline, splash in shallow water, and soak in views of Mount Tallac where the marsh meets the lake. North Zephyr Cove Beach Leashed dogs are allowed on public sections of the beach (just avoid private resort areas). It’s a beautiful stop on the southeast shore with easy lake access. Regan Beach & Dog Water Park Dogs are permitted off-leash only in the designated Dog Water Park near the entrance. Shallow water makes this a great choice for smaller pups. Connolly Beach Midtown South Lake Tahoe with shallow water and limited parking. Leashed dogs are welcome, and it’s close to restaurants, marinas, and water rentals. Pro Tip: Bring a microfiber absorbent towel with you to dry your pup after their dip in the water. You can also lay them on the car seat to help keep the seat dry. We found these on Amazon. Kayak Ride North Lake Tahoe Patton Landing (Carnelian Bay) A rocky beach perfect for adventurous dogs. Bonus: rent a kayak or paddleboard from Waterman’s Landing right on site and take your pup out on the lake. Coon Street Dog Beach (Kings Beach) Best early in the morning for fewer crowds and gorgeous light. Ideal for energetic dogs who love playing fetch and swimming. Skylandia State Park & Beach A sandy beach, pier, picnic areas, and trails within a 24-acre state park. Dogs are welcome throughout the park on leash. Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Lake Tahoe South Lake Tahoe Van Sickle Bi-State Park Trail Big views without a big climb. Scenic Tahoe Rim Trail access with great payoff within the first mile – excellent for dogs of all sizes. Eagle Lake Trail A moderately easy 1.7-mile hike to a sparkling alpine lake. Leashed dogs are welcome and love the cool mountain air. North Lake Tahoe West Martis Creek Trail An easy 1.6-mile loop near Northstar Resort with minimal elevation gain – perfect for casual walks with your pup. Tahoe Rim Trail & Watson Lake Loop A 3.9-mile moderate loop near Carnelian Bay featuring rolling hills and lakeside scenery. Dogs are allowed on leash and can access the water. Pro Tip: Always bring plenty of water for both you and your dog. Even in winter, you can get dehydrated. We like this water bottle for our dog because it is easy for them to drink from plus you can bring a few treats for them! Cascade Falls Waterfall Hikes You Can Do with Your Dog Cascade Falls (Emerald Bay) One of the best short hikes in the area, just 1.5 miles round-trip. Dogs must be leashed, but the views are worth it. Fallen Leaf Lake Trail A scenic 2.5-mile loop with lake views, waterfalls, and stunning fall color. Leashed dogs welcome. Fishing Charter Other Dog-Friendly Summer Activities Truckee River Rafting Self-guided rafting along a mellow 5-mile stretch. Chill dogs float free – no extra ticket required. Tahoe Sport Fishing Charters Water-loving pups are welcome aboard guided fishing trips. Just let them know when booking that you’ll be bringing your pup. Gatekeeper’s Museum and 64-Acre Beach One of the rare museums where dogs are allowed inside. Pair history with a beach stop afterward. Pro Tip: Even though dogs can swim naturally, that doesn’t mean that if they fall in the water that they won’t panic. If you’re going to take your pup for a boat ride or kayak with them, be sure that they have a life jacket. We like this one from Amazon. I like the handles on top to make it easier to grab them. Winter Fun with Dogs in Lake Tahoe Tahoe turns into a snow-covered playground in winter and your dog can join most of the fun. Bijou Community Park – Snow zoomies guaranteed at this dog’s winter playground. From chasing a frisbee to rolling in fresh powder, your pup will be in heaven. Blackwood Canyon Road (West Shore) – Walks, skiing, shoreline access Tahoe City Winter Sports Park – Groomed trails for walking or snowshoeing Meeks Bay Trail – Snowshoe or ski with leashed dogs Paige Meadows – 14 miles of open panoramas and snowy trails Tahoe XC Ski Area – Yes, dogs get lift tickets to 3 dog friendly trails. Tamarack Lodge –Not only can you stay here with your pup, but the lodge offers dog friendly trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Pro Tip: Dogs can get hypothermia and even common colds just like us if they are out in the cold too long, so keep this in mind when spending time outside in cold weather. Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Lake Tahoe MacDuff’s Public House – Irish pub classics with a dog-friendly patio. Umbrellas shade the space to keep you both cool. California Burger – Craft burgers, whiskey, beer, and a dog menu to satisfy you both. Sonney’s BBQ Shack – Bacon treats for pups upon request great BBQ for you. Jax at the Trax (Truckee) – This Truckee area restaurant in a vintage 1948 Pullman diner car features upgraded takes on old favorites and will get high marks from your dog. Pups will enjoy the patio while they get their own water bowl and their own little doggy menu featuring biscuits, beef or chicken jerky, chew sticks and hamburger patty cooked to order. In fact, they will fire just about any menu item you want for your furry friend. Best Dog-Friendly Places to Stay in Lake Tahoe Hotel Azure Tahoe (South Lake) Nestled among the pines near the shores of Lake Tahoe and within walking distance of many dog-friendly restaurants. Each room has modern decor and beautiful views, and first-floor rooms are pet friendly and include private lawns. There are also three separate relief areas on the property for your pup to sniff out, and Kiva Beach is just a short drive away. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe (Incline Village) This is a classic mountain lodge with modern amenities. Four-legged guests receive a ‘Pawssport’ at check-in with a welcome letter, homemade treats, and waste bags. This hotel is located close to shopping in Incline Village and pet-friendly trails like those found at Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park where dogs are welcome from mid-October to mid-April. PlumpJack Inn (North Lake Tahoe) Tucked at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in North Lake Tahoe, and just steps away from the legendary ski lifts of Palisades Tahoe. Your pup will receive a bed, bowls, treats and waste bags at check-in, and he’s welcome to join you on the patio of the inn’s Plumpjack Bar. You’ll also be near other dog-friendly Squaw Valley restaurants, and close to the starting point for Truckee River Rafting. Fireside Lodge (South Lake Tahoe) Each room in this cabin-themed lodge is decorated in a unique country mountain theme and features a cozy fireplace, and breakfast is provided each morning. The lodge offers a welcome package for pets that includes pet covers, bowls, treats and dog towels, and you might even meet the resident pup. The inn backs up to a national forest which has miles of pet-friendly hiking trails for walking during summer and cross-country skiing during winter. Pro Tip: When traveling with your pet be sure to bring familiar things like their favorite blanket and toy so they feel comfortable and safe. Inspiration Point Day Trip Idea: The Lake Tahoe Loop Short on time? Drive the 72-mile Lake Tahoe Scenic Loop with plenty of pullouts for stretch breaks. Don’t miss: Inspiration Point (Emerald Bay)– take a short walk with your pooch down a paved pathway to a stunning overlook of Emerald Bay and Fannette Island Lake Tahoe Scenic Overlook near Incline Village -to see elevated views of Lake Tahoe Final Thoughts: Why Lake Tahoe Belongs on Every Dog-Friendly Bucket List Lake Tahoe is one of the best dog-friendly vacation destinations in the U.S. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, snowshoeing through meadows, or floating down rivers together, this is a place where dogs aren’t just allowed- they’re welcomed. If you’re traveling with your pup and craving fresh air, adventure, and flexibility, Lake Tahoe delivers every season. We love to share tips and information we learn to help you plan your next adventure with your furry friends. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories. 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