Dog parents, this one’s for you! Carson City has plenty of activities that’ll get your pup’s tail wagging. Consider this your all-in-one stop for dog-friendly trip inspiration.

Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Carson City

Nevada’s state capital welcomes dogs with open arms. From parks and trails to restaurants, there’s no shortage of places to explore and enjoy together. So, call off your pet sitter and start planning a fun getaway!

Roam Local Parks

Did you know sniffing increases dogs’ respiratory rate and mental stimulation while giving them a dopamine hit? That’s right! Dogs have more than 200 million scent receptors, meaning they get a lot of out smelling somewhere or something new. By taking your pup to a park they’ve never been to, they’re embarking on a “sniffari” that’s sure to tucker them out.

Swing by these dog-friendly parks in Carson City:

  • Fuji Park offers 14 acres of wide-open space for you and your dog to play in. There’s a small, designated open-air animal area on site. It can get a bit dusty, but luckily, there are animal wash racks nearby!
  • Sonoma Park is a wonderful option if your dog wants to make friends. There’s a fenced area where your pup can run free—so long as they have good recall.
  • Washoe State Lake Park is located in the center of a scenic valley, where you’re likely to spot wildlife, such as bald eagles, pelicans, and various fish. Please keep your dog on a leash while you explore.

Hit the Trails

Dog walking trail at Carson River Park

Hiking is one of the most dog-friendly things to do in Carson City, where you can get outside, catch some rays, and get some exercise with your furry friend in tow. Some easy, dog-friendly trails include Mexican Ditch Trail (3.5 miles), V&T Railroad Grade Road (3.8 miles), and Riverview Park Loop (1.6 miles). All of these routes offer great mountain views, are open year-round, and have a few areas where your dogs can venture off-leash. Keep an eye out for other adventurers, as these are popular trails for fishing, mountain biking, and even horseback riding.

Should you and your dog be avid hikers, take a look at these moderate to challenging trails:

  • C-Hill (1.9 miles of rocky terrain with no shade)
  • Prison Hill Trail (2.8 miles with sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada mountains)
  • Jack Rabbit Trail (moderate, 2.7-mile trail; dogs must be leashed)
  • Ash to Kings Trail (moderate, 9.1-mile trail that’s best to visit from April to July; dogs must be leashed)

Chow Down & Drink Up

A table full of delicious Apps and Drinks at Piazza in Bob McFadden Plaza in downtown Carson City Nevada

Everyone’s gotta eat—and that includes your four-legged friend! Carson City is packed with pet-friendly restaurants, so no one has to be left in the hotel room while you’re visiting. Treat yourself to delicious food while your pup soaks up the sunshine or the warmth of a fire pit. 

Here are some great dog-friendly restaurants in Carson City:

 

Looking for a handcrafted cocktail and an old-timey atmosphere? Check out Bank Saloon. Not only is it a charming bar in the heart of downtown Carson City, but it also offers your furry friend a special treat of their own. On certain days of the week, they have a Puppy Happy Hour, where your dog will receive a “puptail” and a branded bandana. Explore upcoming events and get more details on Bank Saloon’s website.

Make a Splash

A man and his dog overlook the views of Lake Tahoe from the Skunk Harbor Beachline. This is an excellent beach for a day trip anytime of the year on Lake Tahoe's East Shore,

Dog-friendly things to do in Carson City don’t end there! For the pups who love a good swim, Carson City is just a 25-minute drive from Lake Tahoe. Keep in mind that parking can be tricky and both beaches we’re talking about involve a bit of hiking. But seeing the joy on your dog’s face after playing in the sand and water sure are worth it!

Known by locals as a dog beach, Skunk Harbor is a must-visit when you’re in the neighborhood. Take a 1.5-mile trek, then roll out your beach blanket as your dog does laps up and down the shoreline.

A bit further north is Chimney Beach. Dogs and people alike love it here. It’s a smaller area, so remember this if you’re planning to visit in the middle of summer! Be careful as you approach, as getting to this dog-friendly beach has steep terrain. 

Enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe’s dog-friendly beaches by day, then unwind in Carson City, where the laid-back vibes and affordability make it the perfect home base for you and your pup. 

Dog-Friendly Hotels in Carson City

When it’s time to rest those paws, you need somewhere comfortable that doesn’t break the bank. Because we absolutely adore dogs here, you have the pick of the litter for dog-friendly lodging in Carson City. Here are several options: 

Perhaps you and your furry companion are hitting the road in an adventure van. We’ve got space for you, too! Camp-N-Town and Comstock Country RV Resort are great options to park and play.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friend on a New Adventure

We can’t wait for you to plan your trip and experience all the dog-friendly things to do in Carson City. Miles of trails, sniff-worthy parks, and dog-friendly patios—what more could you want? Carson City is the perfect place to create moments both you and your pet will cherish for many (dog) years to come.