Why Marin County is a dog’s paradise in spring
If you haven’t taken your dog across the Golden Gate Bridge yet this spring, you’re running out of excuses. Marin County in April is the rare California destination where the hills are still electric green, the wildflowers are putting on a show, and the summer fog hasn’t rolled in to ruin the view. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly counties in the state — and we’re not just talking about a token “dogs allowed” sign at the trailhead.
Between the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Marin County Open Space preserves, and a string of small towns that genuinely welcome dogs at restaurants, shops, and even art galleries, this is a place built for exploring with your four-legged travel partner. Here’s where to start.
Hit the trails while the weather holds
The Marin Headlands offer some of the most jaw-dropping coastal hiking anywhere in California, and several trails welcome leashed dogs — including the Coastal Trail from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Wolf Ridge Trail junction. The views of the bridge and the Pacific are absurd, and your dog will love the wind in their ears.
Down at Rodeo Beach, dogs can actually run off-leash on the pebbly shoreline. It’s one of the few beaches in the Bay Area where that’s the case, and the unique stones — jasper, agate, carnelian — make it feel otherworldly. Just be prepared for wind; it’s the Headlands, after all…