Half Moon Bay

Since we rescued Lois, we hadn't made it out to the coast, so this past weekend with its amazing weather was the perfect opportunity. And, with so many dog-friendly beaches, Half Moon Bay was the natural choice.

Destination

We headed for Poplar State Beach, just south of where highways 92 and 1 meet. At the end of Poplar Street, right off highway 1, there's a nice parking a

rea for the beach that isn't full if you get there early enough. It's a great dog-friendly beach, and wasn't too busy even on this sunny Sunday. On our trip, there were several dogs playing to the south end of the beach, and almost all were off- leash. The beach technically requires leashes, and I would advise them if you aren't confident with your voice control over your dog.

Recreation

We had plans to walk around a bit, too, but we climbed down to the beach first to cool off the dogs. Lois and Clark had a blast playing on the sand, but weren't too keen on the cold ocean

waves. So, after they had been sufficiently dunked, we hiked back up to the top.

Just south of the entrance to the beach are a few small trails that direct you to Wavecrest, 200 acres of conservation land protected by Peninsula Open Space Trust. This is dog-friendly land with trails that follow along the cliff top and afford great views of the beach below. There are also several benches and spots along the cliff that can be used for a picnic. On a hot day, it's a great place to walk around with the ocean air to cool you and your pooch off.

For Lois' first excursion, I'd say it was a great success! The beach time and the hike plus a fun car ride was all that was needed to make her and Clark happy (and sleepy!). I'd definitely recommend this trip next time you're on the Coastside!

View Half Moon Bay in a larger map

/

Lois

The Vagabond Dog has a new doggy member! Lois is Clark's new sidekick (we just couldn't NOT name her that) and she'll be sharing in his adventures!

Lois is also a German Shorthaired Pointer. They're awesome, energetic and loyal dogs. If you're ever interested in one, check out NorCal GSP Rescue.

North Bay Day Trip

Destination
We were itching to get out of town, and with the promise of good weather, we headed for the North Bay on a Saturday morning from Mountain View. After battling frustrating traffic through San Francisco (grrr), and stopping briefly for lunch in Sausalito, we headed up Hwy 1 to Stinson Beach, then on to Sonoma in the late afternoon. My co-blogger Cheryl already has a post on Stinson, so be sure to check it out for more details and another point of view.

For the amount of time we spent on the winding roads (gulp), and trying to find parking (horrendous), I would have rather gone to Carmel Beach. It would have taken less time to get there, the parking is better, the beach is nicer (sorry, I'm a sand snob), and frankly, there weren't as many playful dogs at Stinson. So, after walking the length of the dog-friendly portion (the northern end we've heard referred to as "Upton Beach"), and sitting long enough for Fletcher to discover sand crabs (digging, a new behavior, ensued), we wound our way to Hwy 101 and headed toward Sonoma.

Neither of us had been to Sonoma, so we just made it up as we went along. Before getting into downtown, I spotted Cornerstone from the highway. I had remembered reading about this funky, landscape architecture-inspired series of shops and gardens, so we pulled in. As it was already after 5pm, most of the food/pottery/home wares stores were closed. So, we left Fletcher in the shade while we poked around a bit. There is also wine tasting on site, with roshambo winery winning the fun-name-contest in my book. I love me a game of rock-paper-scissors! Now, I should probably try the wine... There was a wedding getting underway on our way out, and what a beautiful, quirky, setting to say "I do" in.

Onward and northward: Despite a pretty crowded evening downtown we found parking on a side street, parallel to Broadway, the main drag, as it "t's" into the main plaza. Fletcher and the two of us got out of the nicely refridgerated car and wham! hot Sonoma sun. This is where I nag and remind everyone to always keep a big bottle of water in the car for your dogs. We don't go anywhere without filling up one (or two) for Fletcher and collapseable bowls stay in both of our cars.

We strolled around the perimeter of the plaza, and wandered down some side streets to see the idyllic wine country houses. We obviously did not get a lot of time to explore the surrounding area, so next time we'll want to come back with Fletcher and visit some of the dog-friendly wineries and numerous foodie havens.

Degustation
Our quick lunch in Sausalito was takeaway from Salsalito Taco Shop, eaten on a bench in the shade with Fletcher staring up at us hopefully. My fish taco was delicious, my tostada was nothing I'd do again. Chicken nachos were good, but got soggy fast.

I cannot resist spoiling Fletcher when the opportunity arises, so when we spotted Three Dog Bakery I prepared to restrain myself. A little Papillion greeted us, and as usual Fletcher was gentle and let the little dog sniff him out. The woman working the store was very welcoming and we left with "Terrier-Misu" ice cream (getting licked enthusiastically below) and an assortment of cookies and biscuits.


After Fletcher demolished his icey treat, we were on the lookout for our own. On the corner across from The Girl & The Fig is El Dorado Kitchenette. As the name implies, it's a smaller cafe/bakery attached to their hotel and restaurant. I snuck away with some delicious! homemade soft serve ice cream (vanilla and chocolate swirled) and a chocolate chip cookie. The cookie doesn't compare to Icing on the Cake in Los Gatos, but the ice cream? Yes please. We found a nice bench in the shade on the corner of the plaza to appreciate our desserts and the setting sun.

By the time the last of the ice cream was licked away, we were not hungry for dinner. So instead of taking in Sunflower Caffe, recommended to us for being dog-friendly by Three Dog Bakery, we headed home.


View North Bay Day Trip in a larger map

North Coast

For our big trip this summer, we planned a hiking/camping trip up to the Mendocino area. We originally thought we could make it all the way to Eureka, but we opted for less driving and more relaxing. So, we instead headed to Russian Gulch State Park and Salt Point State Park with Clark in tow (or rather, sleeping in the backseat).

The first stop on the trip was a night at Russian Gulch SP, just north of Mendocino. Once we got off 101, the drive was beautiful, winding through forests until we emerged out on the coast. After driving for much of the day, we were happy to finally get to the campground and discover that we had randomly reserved agreat spot. It had a nice alcove in the trees to pitch the tent and a small creek alongside the back. This was one of Clark's favorite parts about the entire trip. He was definitely in his element, pointing out the various birds and other small creatures while splashing through the water. If you're planning a trip to this state park, see if campsite #17 is available!

That night and again in the morning, we took a short walk to a very secluded beach in a small cove, only open to those camping there and those with a day use pass for the park. Both times that we were there, we shared the beach with less than 5 people. The beach had several rocky areas that Clark enjoyed climbing around on. We had nicknamed him Mountain Goat by the end of the trip for his climbing skills!

After camping that night at Russian Gulch, we started making our way south to the next campground. On the way, we stopped in Mendocino to pick up provisions at a cute local market. We also stopped at Mendocino Headlands State Park. There's no fee to park and walk around. The park is basically a series of cliffs and fantastic views of the ocean. Clark loved ambling around on the rocks above the water and investigating all the new and fun smells. I would definitely recommend a stopover at this park if you're in the area.

That night, we stayed in Salt Point SP. At this park, you can reserve a spot ahead of time, but then you pick a campsite once you get there. We managed to get another great site here, #10, that had a trail which led right off of it to the ocean. We did this beautiful hike the next morning and spent awhile walking along the cliffs. Other than being extremely windy, we really enjoyed this park. And, dogs were definitely popular visitors there.

Overall, it was a great trip. Clark loved all the fresh ocean air and time outside. Judging by how much he slept on the way home, I'd say he really enjoyed himself!

View North Coast in a larger map

Fremont Older Open Space Preserve

Destination
On the edge of Saratoga is a great dog-friendly open space area, the Fremont Older Open Space Preserve. Dogs are allowed on every trail in the preserve provided they are leashed. Since this is one of only ten other dog-friendly preserves managed by Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (here's the complete list), it seems to be a very popular area for dog owners. We saw several happy dogs and their friendly owners on the trail.

We chose the Hunters Point hike, selected out of the Peninsula Tales & Trails guide by David Weintraub. This hike starts at the parking area off Prospect Road where you can choose from three different access points. Trying to avoid the crowds that were going for the most visible trail, the Cora Older Trail, we started out on the Creekside Trail, just a small walk up the road from the parking area. This trail is designated by a sign and a staircase that takes you down closer to creek level. This section of the hike was fully shaded and very nice. From that section, we joined up with a small section of the Cora Older Trail which then led us to the Hayfield Trail, both much less shaded, but instead affording quite a few nice views. Hayfield Trail takes you up to Hunters Point. There is a short steep section to get to the top, but the view is well worth it. Clark particularly enjoyed it, planting his front paws on the wooden railing to get a better view.

From Hunters Point, we continued on the Seven Springs Trail which forms a loop with the other trails to end you at the parking area again. This trail was variably shaded and sunny and changed elevation several times, though not drastically. Besides the Creekside Trail, this was the quietest section. The highlight was spotting a deer bounding away when it got the scent of Clark.

Only a three-mile hike, this loop is great for a quick morning jaunt. We left our house at 9am and were home by 11:30am. 2 and a half hours is not bad for some exercise and a little nature. I definitely recommend this hike to anyone looking to spend some quality time outdoors with their pooch.


View Fremont Older Open Space Preserve in a larger map

Carmel Valley

Destination
Growing up on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel Valley was always the prized sunny spot when the coast was gloomy. So, in November 2008 we took a weekend at the Quail Lodge and lucked out with some glorious weather, good food, and fun times with Fletch.

Accommodation
The Quail Lodge is a relaxed, well-appointed AAA 4-Diamond resort with a golf course, spa, and an off road school operated by Land Rover. We stayed in a spacious king-size room for one night, which came to roughly $250 with the $35 dog fee included. Fletcher was given his own welcome package and bed/dishes/dog bone place mat to use. There was a custom-stamped "Quail Lodge" biscuit in his bowl, and we were given to keep a collapsing nylon water bowl, leash, poop bags, and a "Max's Pet Picks" guide to the area named after the resident standard poodle... oh, and cutsie note from Max welcoming his fellow canine to the resort. Max ended up not taking to Fletcher when they met later on... but Fletcher had a ball with some other new friends.

Recreation
Your best bet for some great hiking with hilltop views is Garland Ranch, part of the Monterey Peninsula Regional Parks District. I've been going there since I was a little girl, floating down the Carmel River (when there was water!) on an inner tube (literally, from Carmel Chevron), cooling my feet over slimy river rocks looking for little fish. Now, massive efforts are underway to protect the health of the river and keep the steelhead from disappearing...

However, the pains of environmental degradation aside, Garland Ranch gives you great trail choices, short/long, steep/not so steep. The visitor center is a good place to get your bearings and grab some shade.

Next on our itinerary was some no-dogs-allowed recreation: wine tasting at Bernardus. The tasting room was very busy and the wines were tasty enough we walked away with two bottles. Some time we'll have to leave Fletcher behind and head to their Bernardus Lodge, which was a 2008 Top 100 World's Best in Travel + Leisure magazine, and Cal Stamenov's Marinus restaurant.

Degustation
We're actually huge fans of the Corkscrew Cafe in the Village. The Georis family who owns Corkscrew also runs the fabulous Casanova (outdoor seating is dog-friendly) and La Bicyclette in downtown Carmel. However, on this trip we decided to switch it up and eat at the Quail's dog-friendly casual restaurant, Edgar's. This was a pleasant walk along the golf green from our room, and our table outside was warmed by a fire pit. Fletcher was promptly given a water bowl and a complimentary biscuit while we perused a special dog menu for him.

After our hike at Garland Ranch (where we met some other very nice dogs), we ate at Cafe Rustica in the Village, just around the corner from Corkscrew, and the Georis and Talbot tasting rooms. Cafe Rustica was delightful in ambiance, good but not "I have to eat here again or else" food (BLT salad and rustic vegetable sandwich). Unfortunately, a very obnoxious dog across the way from us made me think that hospitality should only extend so far.




View Carmel Valley in a larger map

Stevens Creek Trail

Destination
On a recent relaxing Saturday, we were interested in finding a nearby hike that didn't require driving up to an hour or dealing with windy roads and traffic. After some quick research, the Stevens Creek Trail in Mountain View seemed to be the best bet. Although I knew it was a very urban trail, I thought it might be a nice way to get Clark some exercise and also see some new sites in Mountain View.

Recreation
We picked up the trail on Dana Street at the Landels Park entrance. On weekends, it seems like most people park in the school lot next to the entrance, but there is also some street parking. There is also a big grassy field just off to the right after the entrance that I'm sure could be used for a good game of fetch. This field and the adjoining playground look like they are open to the public on the weekends and after school hours. Also, right after the entrance, there is one of the doggy bag dispensers with a nearby trash can that appear periodically on the trail- just a friendly and helpful reminder to clean up after your dog!

Although it is an urban trail, there were many sections that felt quite secluded. The sounds of traffic and everyday city life aren't ever too far away, but it is also easy to drowned it out. However, there were a few sections that I can imagine skittish dogs not enjoying. One small section of the trail passes right alongside the freeway with no sound barrier between you and the rushing traffic. Clark didn't seem to mind it too much, though, and he can sometimes shy away from loud noises. Also, if your dog is afraid of heights, then they probably won't like walking across the bridge that spans Central Expressway in Mountain View. Clark also dealt with this bridge very well, although he took extra caution to balance himself when the bridge started vibrating a bit due to wind and pedestrian and cyclist traffic.

The best parts of the trail are those that pass right alongside Stevens Creek. Small footbridges span the creek at several places, allowing a good view of the water below. In a few more exposed areas, the creek rushes alongside while you follow the concrete pathway under freeways. We even spied a few ducks lounging in the water. Clark didn't seem to notice the water, but was instead preoccupied with all the new smells. He especially loved the forested areas which were quite frequent.

One portion of the trail is elevated and therefore very exposed. This section begins right after passing under 101 and continues as you pass by Microsoft on the left and NASA Ames on the right. If it is windy like on the day that we ventured out, then I would recommend not doing this portion of the trail. With almost no protection and the constant enthusiastic pulling of Clark, we were almost blown over and emerged very frustrated. However, when the day is clear and there is only a slight breeze, I think this section would be one of the best parts of the trail.

Within three-quarters of a mile of the Bay, dogs are no longer allowed on Stevens Creek Trail. Not knowing this going into the hike, we were disappointed to find that we couldn't continue on all the way to the Bay. However, if you know this information ahead of time, it is easy to extend the hike and get some bonus time out and about for you and your dog. Instead of continuing to the end of the dog-friendly part of the trail, you can detour off the trail and head west on La Avenida Street or Crittenden Lane. Both connect to Shoreline Boulevard, which you can then take North to the Mountain View Dog Park. This dog park is off-leash and looks like a lot of fun. Clark and I have stopped by, but since he can't be trusted around small or hyper dogs, we tend to stay away from such off-leash parks. But, for a social, energetic dog, a stop here would be the perfect cap to an already fun day.

Degustation
After hitting the trail for a few hours, lunch in downtown Mountain View can be a relaxing way to enjoy the afternoon. Castro Street has a lot of dog-friendly outside seating. Some favorites of mine are the Amarin Thai restaurant, Pasta?, and Cascal, all with comfortable outside areas.

If you're looking for a local excursion, then the Stevens Creek Trail definitely makes sense for you and your pooch. It can't stand up to a real nature experience in one of the many preserves to the west and south, but it is suited perfectly to a low-maintenance weekend hike, or a quick jaunt after work on a weekday. And, there may be even more trail to hike soon; Friends of the Stevens Creek Trail has information on coming additions, including trail sections in Sunnyvale, Cupertino and Los Altos.


View Larger Map