Inspiration Monday: Dog Friendly Lodge Near Yosemite

Hello and welcome to the first installment of Inspiration Monday.

Inspiration Monday will be a place where I share things that I find inspiring and hope that you will too. The inspiration may be a photo of one of our favorite hikes, a dog friendly town, park, or lodge we want to visit, an inspiring story, a small “goal” to work on for the week, or just a little reminder to be the best pet parents we can be.

If you enjoy what I share, please let me know in the comments.

I’ve been dreaming at staying at the dog friendly Tenaya Lodge outside of Yosemite National Park for years.

The Tenaya Lodge is “an all-season resort that offers AAA Four-Diamond Yosemite accommodations, including Lodge Rooms and Cottage Rooms, a rich range of recreational activities, and awe-inspiring natural beauty at every turn.”

Photo Source: TenayaLodge.com

They have a Deluxe Pampered Pet Package (you have to call them to reserve this) which includes a plush dog bed and water bowl for use during your stay, a canine fact sheet with fun suggestions on pet-friendly areas to roam, and a list of doggy dos and don’ts to follow during your stay. They’ll also provide pet-sitting (for an extra fee) when you visit those places your pup just can’t come along – like the spa and restaurants.

Yosemite is a gorgeous National Park. I’ve driven through there twice. Unfortunately, dogs are generally not allowed in the park – at least not in the capacity that would allow you to enjoy all that the park has to offer. Dogs are only allowed on fully paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths (except when signed as not allowing pets) including Wawona Meadow Loop (doesn’t sound impressive except for maybe the wildflowers in spring though) , the half-mile, paved trail to Lower Yosemite Fall, and bike trails along the Merced River and other parts of Yosemite Valley.

Don’t write this beautiful lodge off just because your dog can’t enjoy most of Yosemite with you though. There are options: You could take your dog into Yosemite knowing you will only be able to see the sights from the road (that’s worth it, believe me) and a few, limited trails; You can use the dog sitting or kennel services through the lodge and visit the park for a day dog-free; or you can enjoy one of the MANY dog friendly hikes and sights on the perimeter land that surrounds the Park (that’s what we’ll be doing if we ever make it there!).

I’ve probably known about this lodge for 3 years. It’s totally on my bucket list of places to go. Someday…..

Have you been there?