Dog Friendly Lake Arrowhead, A Great Getaway

Is Lake Arrowhead a Good Place to Visit with My Dog?

Lake Arrowhead is a clear, cool lake surrounded by pines in the San Bernardino Mountains. It’s a place where the natural landscape takes center stage, offering a refreshing break from the city. The area offers miles of trails where leashed dogs are welcome, and there are some great spots around town where you can grab a bite and your pup can rest by your side. To get the most out of the area, we have partnered up with local Rikke Christensen to help you explore dog friendly Lake Arrowhead

Your Guide: Rikke Christensen

Featured Accommodation: The Forest Moon Chalet

Capturing the magic of the mountains, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Star Wars inspired mountain chalet will set the scene for your getaway! Situated only 2 miles from Lake Arrowhead Village. Enjoy the lake, dining, or Santa’s Village. Well-behaved dogs are welcome with a pet fee. Check out Price and Availability The Forest Moon Chalet.

Top Activities

Here are some top picks for travelers looking to explore dog friendly Lake Arrowhead:

Lake Arrowhead Village
Lake Arrowhead Village is a small shopping village located right on the lake, offering a mix of restaurants, shops, and scenic spots to explore. Many of the restaurants have pet-friendly patios, making it a great place to take your dog for a walk along the lake or relax and enjoy a meal together. With its unique lakeside setting and laid-back atmosphere, Lake Arrowhead Village gives you a chance to experience the local flavor and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Lake Arrowhead Queen
For a different kind of adventure, consider the Lake Arrowhead Queen, a historical paddle-wheel-powered boat that offers a narrated tour of Lake Arrowhead. Onboard, you can learn about the history of the area, hear some fun facts, and enjoy the sights from the water. While dogs aren’t allowed on the Lake Arrowhead Queen, it’s a fun activity if you have a friend or family member to watch your pup for a bit while you soak up the history and take in the scenic lake views.

MacKay Park Bark Park
For some off-leash fun, MacKay Park Bark Park in Lake Arrowhead, CA, is a great spot to bring your dogs. This dog park is surrounded by hiking trails and offers stunning views of Lake Arrowhead, the mountains, and local wildlife. It features two separate, fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, providing a safe space for dogs to run, play, and socialize. It’s perfect for when your pup needs to stretch their legs, and you want to enjoy a bit of the natural beauty of the area.

Outdoor Adventures in Dog Friendly Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead has plenty of outdoor spaces where you and your dog can soak up the natural beauty of the area. Here are some spots to explore when you want to enjoy the great outdoors with your canine companion:

Peninsula Park

Peninsula Park is a wonderful spot for a day out with your dog. This park features a swimming beach, fishing dock, and picnic tables for you and your pup to relax and enjoy the water.

Arrowhead Lake Association (ALA) Property

If you’re staying in a short-term rental or hotel that’s a member of the Arrowhead Lake Association (ALA), or if you’re an ALA member yourself, you have access to the lakefront trail that wraps around Lake Arrowhead. This trail offers beautiful views of the lake and is perfect for a leisurely walk with your dog. Keep in mind that dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet and under the owner’s control at all times. While dogs aren’t allowed on the beach, in swim areas, or in playgrounds, they are welcome on the trail, making it a nice option for a scenic stroll. There is a fee of $10 per person per day for access.

San Bernardino National Forest

For more adventurous hikes, the San Bernardino National Forest offers several dog-friendly trails where you can both stretch your legs and explore the natural surroundings. Trails like the Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail, North Shore Recreation Trail, and Devil’s Hole OHV Trail are all open to dogs, allowing you to experience the diverse landscape of the forest. These trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, so there’s something for every level of fitness and energy.

Seasonal Experiences

Beyond the usual spots, there are a few more unique activities and experiences to consider when visiting dog friendly Lake Arrowhead with your pup

Snow Valley Ski Resort

If you’re visiting Lake Arrowhead in the winter, Snow Valley Ski Resort is worth checking out. Important Note for your pup: dogs are allowed in some outdoor areas, but not in the buildings (service dogs only). If you are going up on the slopes, this probably is one for Fido to sit out.

As the longest continually operating resort in Southern California, Snow Valley, established in 1924, offers a range of winter activities. It’s known for its beginner-friendly terrain and award-winning learning centers, making it a great place if you’re looking to try skiing or snowboarding. The resort also offers lift-served sledding and snow tubing, providing fun options for the whole family. Snow Valley is home to Southern California’s only high-speed 6-seat lift, The Snow Valley Express, adding a unique experience to your mountain adventure.

It is a winding road up to the resort, so plan accordingly especially in winter conditions.

Fireworks on the 4th of July

Lake Arrowhead is a much quieter place and some folks recommend escaping to the lake to leave the unpredictable chaos of the LA area behind (illegal fireworks large and small start going off the whole week around 4th of July). Fireworks are illegal in the Lake Arrowhead area, so except for the official fireworks show it can be a good getaway for the holiday.

On the 4th itself the ALA puts on their own firework show, starting at 9pm. So if your dog is one who doesn’t mind the noise, this could be a memorable way to spend an evening by the lake!

If your pup is sensitive, then this is can help you plan ahead, stay inside and pick quieter spots in the area to avoid the loud sounds up close. The fireworks launch from a barge near Lake Arrowhead Village.

Best Restaurants and Patios in Lake Arrowhead

Saddleback Grill

Saddleback Grill offers classic American fare in an elevated space with lodge-style interiors and plenty of natural light. They have outdoor patio where you can enjoy the mountain feel with your dog.

Dogwood Tavern

Dogwood Tavern is a fun spot known for good food and plenty of entertainment. You can shoot pool, dance to live music, or enjoy karaoke, which is available for adults over 21 from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. There’s also a game room with retro arcade games for a bit of extra fun.

Jetties Waterfront Kitchen & Drink

Jetties Waterfront Kitchen & Drink is right on the lake, offering a casual lakefront dining experience unique to Lake Arrowhead. Known for its delicious cocktails and a commitment to making great food from scratch using fresh ingredients, Jetties provides counter service for lunch and dinner with a full-service bar. The dog-friendly patio allows you and your dog to enjoy the beautiful lakeside setting while you dine.

Best Dog Friendly Places to Stay in Lake Arrowhead

Featured Recommendation: The Forest Moon Chalet

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Considerations for Traveling to Lake Arrowhead with Your Dog

Los Angeles and Ontario are the gateway cities, so you’ll likely start your journey from one of these points.

This is a great destination all year, though of course winter can get cold, which is great if your dog enjoys stepping out into the snow. In winter months, chains or a vehicle equipped to handle winter conditions is recommended, especially if visiting higher elevation areas.

Wrapping Up: Dog Friendly Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead is a great place to choose your own adventure, or simply show up and breathe it in. With crisp mountain air and a beautiful lake it is a chance for everything slow down a bit. If you and your dog like watersports or activities where you can get away from it all, this is the spot.