Best Dog Friendly Hikes Vancouver – If you live in or have visited Vancouver, you know that the hiking here is world class and the trails are endless.
And if you have a dog in Vancouver, you probably also know that trying to find dog-friendly trips can be a little frustrating, especially ones that are optional.
Best Dog Friendly Hikes Vancouver
Darby and I have explored many trails over the past four years and these are some of our favorites!
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*Note: Based on my experience, the level, length and leash options I list below for each trail may differ from those on the vancouvertrails.com website.
* In the summer, it might be a good idea to bring water for your furry friend. There is a waterfall along the trail, but it can be dangerous and closed. There are several rivers, but in hot weather they often dry up.
Located about 45 minutes from Vancouver on the road to Whistler, Chief is a majestic granite mountain popular with climbers and hikers.
Located in the booming mountain town of Squamish, it’s a lively destination, especially popular in the summer.
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If you’re hiking during the warmer months, plan to arrive early to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
There are three peaks you can climb, all of varying difficulty. Peak collection times take approximately 45 minutes in increments.
All three crates have some sort of chain or ladder and most dogs will need a little support to stand up. Older dogs may find all of the above aspects challenging.
Once you reach the top, you will see magnificent views of Howe Sound and Squamish. Overall, this site is easily accessible and worth a visit.
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*Although the rivers run during the snowy months, it is definitely a good idea to bring water for your dog during the warmer months.
The Sea to Summit Trail, located near the Chief Hike in Squamish, starts at the bottom of the sea at the ski gondola (or below the Chief Hike, depending on where you park) and ends at the lodge at the summit.
Formerly known as the Upper Shannon Falls Trail, this trail is similar in difficulty to the main trail.
There are steep sections and areas with large rocks. Most dogs should be able to track, but keep in mind that it can be a little difficult for older dogs.
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At the top there are beautiful views of Howe Sound and Squamish, as well as a lodge, several viewing platforms and a suspension bridge.
If you’re in the mood, you can stop at a lodge for a snack or a beer before getting off to the best possible start.
The good thing about this trip is that you can take a gondola ($15 per person and $15 per dog).
The Sea to Summit Trail is a wonderful hike and a great way to spend the day.
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*Apart from a small man-made lake at the beginning of the hike, there is not much fresh water on this hike. It’s better to bring extra for your dog.
Located about an hour from Vancouver by highway and another 1.5 hours on back roads and forest roads, Mount Cham is one of my all-time favorite hikes.
Located in the picturesque farming village of Chilliwack, Mount Cheam is the highest peak in the Fraser Valley and its views are hard to beat. In fact, on a clear day you can see the entire ocean.
Covered with wild flowers and vast meadows, Mount Shyam is still relatively untouched, and this is largely due to the fact that access to the trail is extremely difficult.
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A 4×4 vehicle is required as the roads leading to the trail are in poor condition and quite narrow in some places.
Although the trail is quite easy, it is in a remote area, so it is important to be well prepared. Bring plenty of water, beer, and bug spray, and be sure to tell someone where you’re going.
And it’s best to drag the cat when you get to the top – there are some nice stairs with a great view, so be careful.
Check back soon for a more detailed blog post and my love letter to Mount Cham 🙂
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*Since the hike is fairly short and there is a lake at the top, I usually don’t find it necessary to bring extra water for my dog. There is also a river below which the dogs drink from before returning to the car.
Located in the beautiful Chilliwack Valley, about 20 minutes from Mount Shyam, Lindeman Lake is an emerald green, icy body of water surrounded by hills and forests.
Once you reach the lake, land on one of the many rocks lining the shore. If you’re brave, take a dip in cold water!
To make the hike a little more challenging, continue to Greendrop Lake. Make your way along the rocks to the left of the water.
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*There won’t be a ton of water on this trip, so it’s best to bring extra water for your dog.
Elk Mountain is another great hike in Chilliwack. The views are (almost) on par with Mount Cham and the trailhead is very accessible.
Some sections are steep and it’s definitely a good workout, but there are plenty of views along the climb that make it worth it.
On a clear day, the summit offers unobstructed views of the Fraser Valley. And if you’re lucky, you might even see paragliders taking off from above.
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* Many rivers flow along this route, but depending on the time of year they may dry up. In the summer, I would recommend bringing your dog water. In wet weather you will be fine.
The hike is close to town and the trail is easy to find. This is a great workout that’s easy to do in the afternoon.
The first part of the trail requires walking across a stream, so I would recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots. Some sections are a little rocky and bumpy, but eventually the trail is paved.
Tall trees and dense forests make you feel away from the city. When you finally reach the top, you will be treated to beautiful views of the Fraser Valley.
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Note. Technically this trail requires your dog to be on a leash, but I noticed that during the off-season there are very few people on the trail. If your dog is respectful, he can stop this time of year.
If you want an easier option, try Lane Valley Loop. This is a path that runs along the river. This is a great place to go for a swim during the warmer months and even has a waterfall and small splash pool for you and your dog! As you can see from the above, Darby loved it.
* There are many streams on this road from which dogs drink. However, they can dry out a bit during the summer months. Bring some water for your dog or leave some in the car when you get back to the parking lot.
Dog Mountain is an easy hike located near downtown Vancouver. The elevation gain is minimal and the round trip is only 5 km.
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It can get a little slippery during the rainy and snowy months, so wear shoes with good traction.
*There is a fountain along many of the trails where your dog can drink. Be sure to keep them on a leash near the water because the current is very strong and some parts are standing. There is a lake at the top where your dog can drink from.
This is by far the hardest trip I’ve ever taken to British Columbia, but it’s also the most rewarding. It’s long and long and requires an overnight stay, so it’s best to take a backpack with you.
When you finally reach the top, you will be greeted by an old wooden climbing hut located on the edge of a crystal clear glacial lake. The views of mountains and ancient glaciers are breathtaking.
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Due to the fact that you will have to get to the beautiful water lake, you will probably be one of the few people there.
There’s something special about having a place like this to yourself, even if just for the night.
Getting to the trail is half the battle, as it is located across the river and can only be reached by boat. That is until you decide to walk along the rope to the old rope laid between the two beaches. Most people prefer to swim.
We read a few blogs and found Jet Boat G, a famous local guy who takes people across the river in his boat. The return trip cost us $50 each. It seemed a bit heavy at first, but it was definitely worth it in the end.
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The area across the river from the trailhead is a highly protected area, so you are not legally allowed to park there. Cars are common
