There are several dog-friendly trails in and around Sonora and Twain Harte, and McCaffrey House Bed & Breakfast Inn gives you and your pets a home base while you explore as many of them as you want.

Here are a few nearby favorites:

West Side Rails: Tuolumne City to Tuolumne River

Formerly a narrow gauge railroad track, the West Side Rails in Tuolumne has been transformed into an easy hiking, biking and horseback riding trail. The in-and-out trail is five miles one way, so it can be a long or a short hike depending on when you turn back. The former track goes from the trailhead at Buchanan and Mira Monte roads to the River Ranch Campground. Another mile past the campground is the North Fork of the Tuolumne River. For more information and a map, visit Sonora Central.

West Side Rails: Hull Creek to Clavey River

Another section of the former railroad, the Hull Creek segment is out of the way and rated as difficult. Experienced hikers recommend bringing a map, fully charged cellphone and any other necessary supplies, just in case. Signs along the trail describe the history of the railroad, and you can pick up a guide at the Mi-Wok Ranger District office in nearby Mi Wuk Village. The trail is 8 miles one-way, so prepare for a long hike or arrange for someone to pick you up at Camp Clavey. For information and advice, call the Mi-Wok Ranger District at (209) 532-3671.

Sugar Pine Railway: Strawberry Branch

Yet another repurposed former railroad line, the three-mile section between Twain Harte and Lyons Dam is described as family friendly and offers views of the Stanislaus River. Like the other “Rails to Trails” options in the area, Sugar Pine Railway has interpretive signs along the trail with information about the historic railroad. More information is available at TrailLink, or call the Mi-Wok Ranger District at (209) 532-3671.

Of course, after a long day of hiking you need somewhere to rest where your pets are welcome, too. McCaffrey House offers pet friendly lodging so hikers with two legs or four can take a break before heading out on the next day’s adventure.