Desert Weekends

Flagstaff is one of Arizona’s most pet-friendly mountain towns, making it an ideal destination for traveling with your dog. Enjoy a meal on the patio at Mother Road Brewing Company, grab breakfast at The Toasted Owl Cafe, or stop by Tourist Home Flagstaff Cafe, all of which welcome dogs in their outdoor seating areas. For overnight stays, popular pet-friendly options include Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff, Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff, and Americana Motor Hotel Flagstaff Route 66, many offering pet amenities and easy access to downtown and nearby trails.

Adventure awaits just minutes from town with dozens of dog-friendly trails winding through the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Easy favorites include Campbell Mesa Loop Trails and the extensive Flagstaff Urban Trail System, while experienced hikers can tackle Mt Elden Lookout Trail or the challenging Humphreys Peak Trail. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout most of the surrounding national forest, giving you endless opportunities to explore cool mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and panoramic views together.

Reno is a fantastic destination for travelers with dogs, offering pet-friendly patios, comfortable hotels, and easy access to outdoor adventure. Enjoy riverside dining at Süp or grab a meal on the patio at Wild River Grille, both welcoming dogs in their outdoor seating areas. Pet-friendly stays like Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa, Staybridge Suites Reno by IHG, and Best Bet Motor Lodge make excellent home bases for exploring the city with your four-legged companion.

For outdoor adventures, Reno is surrounded by scenic, dog-friendly trails perfect for every skill level. Hike to a waterfall at Hunter Creek Trailhead, enjoy the forested paths at Thomas Creek Trailhead, or explore the rolling hills from East Keystone Trailhead. Most local trails welcome leashed dogs, making Reno an ideal weekend getaway for hiking, relaxing, and enjoying Northern Nevada’s beautiful mountain landscapes.

Zion is a great destination for travelers with dogs, especially when you stay in nearby Springdale. Enjoy a meal on the dog-friendly patios at Oscar’s Cafe, Zion Canyon Brew Pub, or Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon before relaxing at pet-friendly hotels like La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale, Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites, or Driftwood Lodge. These accommodations offer convenient access to the park and nearby outdoor adventures.

While most trails inside Zion National Park do not allow pets, dogs are welcome on the scenic, paved Pa’rus Trail, one of the park’s most beautiful walks with views of towering red cliffs and the Virgin River. Outside the park, explore pet-friendly trails in the surrounding public lands near Springdale and Hurricane, where leashed dogs can enjoy desert scenery and wide-open landscapes. Zion is an excellent base for travelers looking to combine stunning scenery, outdoor dining, and pet-friendly lodging with their four-legged companion.

San Diego is one of California’s top destinations for dog lovers, with pet-friendly beaches, outdoor patios, and welcoming hotels throughout the city. Enjoy waterfront dining at Draft Mission Beach, grab a burger at Raglan Public House, or relax with a craft beer at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, all offering dog-friendly outdoor seating. Pet-friendly stays like Kimpton Alma San Diego, Loews Coronado Bay Resort, and The Dana on Mission Bay provide comfortable accommodations close to beaches, parks, and local attractions.

Outdoor adventures are endless with scenic trails and famous dog beaches. Let your pup run leash-free at Ocean Beach Dog Beach, hike the coastal trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (dogs allowed on the beach and nearby areas, but not on the reserve trails), or explore the easy paths around Mission Bay Park. With year-round sunshine, ocean views, and countless pet-friendly experiences, San Diego is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway with your four-legged companion.