Dog-Friendly Winter Itinerary in Northern Nevada
Traveling year-round with our dogs, Zoey and Otto, means we’re always on the lookout for winter destinations that are both fun and dog-friendly. As northern Nevada locals, we’re guilty of forgetting how much variety sits in our own backyard—snowy mountain trails, historic towns, great restaurants, and incredible scenery.
This winter, we partnered with Travel Nevada to build our ideal dog-friendly winter itinerary in northern Nevada. Whether you’re craving a snowy adventure or a laid-back getaway with your pup, Incline Village, Reno, Virginia City, and Genoa offer a perfect mix of scenery, history, and dog-friendly charm.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer winter road trip, this itinerary offers plenty of ways to explore northern Nevada with your dog by your side. From Lake Tahoe’s snowy trails to Reno’s food scene and the quirky charm of its Old West towns, the region blends outdoor beauty with dog-friendly activities and cozy spots to warm up together.
This post is published in partnership with Travel Nevada. While the trip was sponsored, all opinions, experiences, and recommendations are entirely my own.
Incline Village
A winter trip to northern Nevada isn’t complete without a visit to Lake Tahoe, and Incline Village delivers some of the best shoreline views on the lake.
Things to do
Tahoe East Shore Trail – Offering stunning views of the lake, this paved 3-mile trail runs along Lake Tahoe’s eastern shoreline. While relatively level, it begins with a short climb before leveling out upon reaching Hidden Beach.
Tip: Expect packed snow and icy patches in winter.
Sand Harbor State Park – Known for its turquoise water, Sand Harbor is dog-friendly (leashes required) between October 15 - April 15. It is one of our favorite places for a beach picnic, or to bring a warm beverage and catch the sunset. Our dogs also love to dip their paws in the lake even when it’s freezing outside.
Tip: There’s a year-round entry fee: $10 for Nevada vehicles, $15 for out-of-state vehicles.Snowshoeing – If you are driving on Mount Rose Highway from Reno to Incline Village or vice versa, our favorite place for a dog-friendly snowshoe adventure is Chickadee Ridge. This Mount Rose Wilderness trail climbs to a ridge with sweeping lake views (if the weather cooperates!).
Tip: In addition to snowshoe trails, this area also offers dog-friendly nordic skiing trails that are free to use and are maintained by Nevada Nordic.
Where to eat
Drink Coffee Do Stuff – Delicious coffee and breakfast sandwiches. Don’t forget to ask for a pup cup!
Tunnel Creek Café – Perfect before or after the East Shore Trail. They offer a small, dog-friendly seating area that stays open all winter, and you can order the grilled cheese and tomato soup to warm up.
FUMO Restaurant & Bar – Definitely a unique experience with dog-friendly private heated outdoor igloos. Cozy and fun!
T's Mesquite Rotisserie – A local go-to for takeout and a great option to enjoy by the lake or back at your hotel. (Cash Only!)
Where to stay
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe – Our favorite dog-friendly stay on Tahoe’s North Shore. Resort perks like a heated pool, hot tub, and in-room dining pair nicely with dog-friendly rooms that open onto patio and grass areas.
Pet details: friendly dogs of all types/sizes are welcome, $100 nightly pet fee, and we recommend requesting a patio room for easy outdoor access.
Reno
Nicknamed “The Biggest Little City in the World” for good reason, Reno is easy to explore while also offering a wide range of dog-friendly activities.
Things to do
Truckee River Trail – This paved riverside path runs right through downtown, making it a great option for a leisurely dog walk with views of the mountains and city landscape. You can also enjoy a variety of art along the path, including several unique Burning Man art installations.
Rancho San Rafael Dog Park – One of the best dog parks we’ve visited: huge, open, and perfect for off-leash play.
Reno Arch – Snap a photo under the iconic Reno Arch. As you explore the area, keep an eye out for the colorful murals and quirky street art.
Where to eat
Hub Coffee Roasters – Our favorite Reno coffee shop, plus its location right by the Truckee River Trail makes it a perfect pit stop before or after a walk.
Tip: Your dog can join you at the outside tables, and the staff may even offer your pup a treat.
Walden’s Coffeehouse – Great breakfast spot with a small dog-friendly front patio. We love the breakfast burrito, which is massive and great for splitting.
Noble Pie Parlor – If the weather calls for a covered and heated dog-friendly patio, head to this MidTown spot. They’re known for their pizza, but our favorite is the 'Burg-Style wings.
Revision Brewing Company – A favorite for craft beer lovers with a creative rotating beer lineup and great indoor beer garden.
Dumpling Queen Reno – A fun dinner stop that serves delicious dumplings that are made in an Airstream. It offers an outdoor patio with fire pits that connects to Abby’s Highway 40, a nostalgic Nevada dive bar.
Day Trips to Historic Nevada Towns
Northern Nevada is full of Old West history, and the towns established during the mining boom of the mid-1800s are still full of charm today.
Virginia City
This is the town that put Nevada on the map in 1859 with the largest silver ore discovery in United States history: the Comstock Lode. This gave Nevada its famous nickname the “Silver State.” Visiting Virginia City today feels like stepping onto an Old West movie set.
Things to do
Explore Historic Virginia City – One of our favorite things to do is simply walk the streets, window shop, and enjoy the Victorian-era buildings. We recommend grabbing a coffee from The Roasting House, where you can take in the “hundred-mile view” of the Comstock District from the back patio. Also, don’t miss a photo op of the Saint Mary in the Mountains Catholic Church.
Priscilla Pennyworth's Old Time Photos – A hilarious and memorable stop! Step back in time and dress up in vintage costumes (dogs included!) for old-timey portraits you’ll treasure forever.
Washoe Club Museum & Saloon – This once-elite social club now operates as a haunted museum and saloon. Dogs are allowed on their ghost tours ($10 per person) or you can simply enjoy a drink at the historic bar.
Virginia City Jerky Co – Stop in for a lunch menu featuring BBQ favorites and a covered outdoor patio. You can also sample the house-made jerky!
Genoa
This village was Nevada’s first non-Native settlement. Founded as a trading post in 1851, Genoa is a small, charming town filled with history and character.
Things to do
Mormon Station State Historic Park – At this reconstructed wood fort, walk around the grassy park which features exhibits sharing the origin of the town.
The Pink House – What better place to take in the town than at a beautiful historic landmark offering great food, a full bar, and a heated and enclosed dog-friendly patio. Live music is common on weekends.
Genoa Bar and Saloon – Grab a drink on the patio of Nevada’s oldest bar. Open since 1853, it is known as “Nevada’s Oldest Thirst Parlor.” Step inside for a look at the pioneer-era décor.