Cloverdale Loop

If you enjoy taking your pup on a short hike through wooded hillsides with great views near Redding in California, the Cloverdale Loop is the trail to choose. You'll find the trailhead by heading out of the small town of Igo on the Cloverdale Road. It's less than a five-minute drive, so keep your eyes peeled for the sign or you might pass it by. There's a small lot there where you can leave your vehicle and make use of the public restroom if needed. Once you've got your four-legged hiking buddy leashed, you're ready to hit this scenic trail. Take clean up bags for picking up after your fur baby, and some water too as there's none of either along the trail.

The trail is single lane dirt track which runs through woodlands. Although the trees are well spaced apart, it's still quite shady, and the ground between them is covered with grass, so there's lots for your pup to sniff at. Even though the more elevated parts of the trail will give you clear views of the distant mountains, there are no steep inclines to tackle. Right about the midway point of the loop, you'll come across a ridge lined with boulders. That's a great viewpoint for seeing out across the surrounding landscape and down into the Clear Creek Gorge below. Clear Creek has fast flowing water, and you might even be fortunate to spot whitewater rafters whizzing by. If you've taken a picnic lunch with you, that's a great place to stop and share it with your pup.

Do this hike in spring or summer. The area is covered with amazing wildflowers, and the season's moderate temperatures make it ideal for exploring with your pup. Do keep a lookout for cyclists along the way as this is a favorite trail for mountain bikers. Have a puptastic time!