[pct-l] Cali backpacking in December-Need suggestions

[Jacob Allen]

Hey,

I'm going to have a week to spend backpacking anywhere in California this December (week after Christmas).  Can anyone give me some good suggestions that are:

not snow covered
allow dogs
great views
light on traffic
have reliable water sources

Most of my backpacking has been in AR, MO and out East, and I'm just starting my research for this trip.  I only found out I could do it this week.  

Also any tips for ride assist would be great.

Thanks for the help!

-Jacob