Desert Region
The Desert Region cuts through five counties of the southeastern portion of California and encompasses millions of acres of protected lands. This vast region is very dog-friendly, from the Greater Palm Springs area (cities of the Coachella Valley), to Joshua Tree, Anza Borrego and up to Death Valley.
The stories below give you some great ideas of how to get the most doggone fun out of the region. A reminder, when traveling in the deserts in winter or summer, be sure you and your pup are well hydrated and be aware of your surroundings.
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Stories about Desert Region
Heatstroke and hot pavement: California dog summer safety
Heatstroke kills 50–64% of affected dogs, and 3 out of 4 cases are caused by exercise — not hot weather alone. Here's what California dog owners need to know about hot pavement, warning signs, emergency cooling, and the state law that lets you break a
Dog-friendly wildflower hikes in the Mojave: 5 trails
Mojave National Preserve is the rare NPS unit that welcomes dogs on every trail. Here are five hikes where spring blooms are peaking right now.
Where to stay with your dog in Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs has figured out something most desert towns haven't: dogs are good for business. The result is a hotel market where pet policies go beyond "tolerated" to something closer to "actively welcomed." Here's where to stay, what it costs, and which places actually
Fetch the perfect spring escape in Greater Palm Springs
Spring is the perfect time to explore Greater Palm Springs with your pup — mild temperatures, desert blooms, and dog-friendly trails, hotels, and patios. Our guide covers Mission Creek, Whitewater, La Quinta Resort, Boozehounds and more, plus how to time your spring visit to keep
New year, new adventures in Greater Palm Springs
Greater Palm Springs pairs dog-friendly desert hikes with sun-soaked patios and pet-welcoming hotels. Start the morning on the Bump and Grind Trail, stroll midcentury neighborhoods in the afternoon, then wind down at a brewery where your dog is always welcome.
A Greater Palm Springs dog-friendly itinerary for four-legged fun
A dog-friendly day-and-night itinerary for Greater Palm Springs — morning trails at Whitewater or Homme/Adams, El Paseo strolling, Moorten Botanical Garden, pool-side afternoons, and patio dinners at Boozehounds or Jake's. Plus ideas to stretch it into a full weekend.
Happy New Year from DogTrekker!
DogTrekker kicks off 2026 with a look ahead at the coastal walks, mountain trails, and welcoming patios waiting for you and your dog across California. More hotels, trails, and restaurants are rolling out the red carpet for pups than ever before.
Escape your ordinary in Greater Palm Springs
In Greater Palm Springs, every day is an invitation to adventure for you and your dog, with scenic hiking trails, sun-drenched patios, and a variety of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. In Greater Palm Springs, every day is an invitation to adventure.
Four-legged fun: A dog-friendly itinerary
A three-day dog-friendly Greater Palm Springs itinerary across the nine-city region. Trail mornings at Homestead and Whitewater, afternoons on El Paseo, breweries and patios, plus desert-travel tips for keeping your pup safe in the sun.
Enjoy dog-friendly dining
From Boozehounds' dog menu to sunny brunch patios, Greater Palm Springs serves up dog-friendly dining where pups are always welcome and tails wag as happily as forks. From hearty brunches to savory dinners—and even treats for your buddy—these dog-friendly restaurants in Greater.
Paws for a pint: Explore dog-friendly breweries
Greater Palm Springs breweries welcome dogs with shady patios, water bowls, and ice-cold pints, making them perfect spots to hang with your canine bestie. Pups, pints, and great vibes. These Greater Palm Springs breweries are perfect for savoring every sip while hanging.
Dog-friendly fall fun in Greater Palm Springs
This fall, Greater Palm Springs is the perfect playground for you and your four-legged travel buddy. Explore dog-friendly breweries, dine on sunny patios where wagging tails are always welcome, and follow a curated itinerary for the ultimate getaway.