Does your pup love to hike? There are lots of dog-friendly hikes near Vancouver where you can treat your pooch to a day on the trails. Here are a few of our favourite Vancouver hikes for dogs.

Dog Hiking Tips

• Pack water and a collapsible bowl so your dog stays hydrated. Some hikes on this list have running water where your pooch can get a drink. But don’t let them drink standing water – it can make them sick.
• Bring a leash. Many of these hikes require one. You’ll also want a leash if there is wildlife nearby. Dogs can chase animals and then get lost or injured. They can also aggravate bears, which can trigger an attack.
• Bring bags and pack out poop. Don’t leave poop bags on the side of the trail. Despite best intentions, many poop bags get forgotten and turn into a disgusting eyesore for other hikers.
• Go at your dog’s pace. Dogs that are out of shape or older may have a tough time. Choose easier hikes to start with and work up to harder ones.
• AdventureSmart recommends bringing a backpack with essential safety and first aid gear on every hike. Check the forecast and pack extra clothing for the weather. Leave a trip plan so someone knows where you are going and when you will be back.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver

This sprawling forested park on Vancouver’s west side is a great spot for dog-friendly hikes. With over 55 kilometres of trails, there are tons of options, many of which are leash-optional. Use the park map to find out which trails and areas allow dogs and whether a leash is required.

Cypress Falls, West Vancouver

West Vancouver’s Cypress Falls Park features a beautiful canyon and two spectacular waterfalls. It’s a short and easy hike, perfect for hikers and pups of all abilities. Dogs are permitted off-leash, but be careful near the canyon edge as there are some big drop-offs. Check out our Cypress Falls hiking guide.

Brother’s Creek, West Vancouver

The loop hike along Brother’s Creek in West Vancouver doesn’t summit a mountain, but there are plenty of beautiful things to see including old-growth cedars, a waterfall, fern-lined canyons, a tiny but picturesque lake, and the ruins of an army truck. Dogs are allowed off-leash on this trail. Our Brother’s Creek hiking guide has more details.

Norvan Falls, North Vancouver

This hike in North Vancouver leads along the banks of Lynn Creek to 30-metre-tall Norvan Falls. While the hike is not short, it’s fairly flat so it is only moderately difficult. Dogs are allowed off-leash on this trail too. See our Norvan Falls hiking guide for more info.

Dog Mountain, North Vancouver

We couldn’t leave Dog Mountain off a list of Vancouver’s best dog-friendly hikes. This popular trail leaves from the Mount Seymour ski area parking lot and rambles through the forest to a great rocky viewpoint. It doesn’t have any big hills, but the uneven terrain and mud puddles may slow you down. Dogs must be on leash for this hike.

Buntzen Lake, Anmore

The easy trail around Buntzen Lake weaves through a gorgeous rainforest with lots of ferns, moss, and mini-waterfalls. You’ll also get to cross both a floating bridge and a suspension bridge. Your dog must be on a leash for the hike, but they can go for an off-leash swim afterward at the designated doggy beach on the east side of the South Beach Picnic Area. Use our Buntzen Lake hiking guide to plan your trip.

Minnekhada Loop, Coquitlam

This easy loop in Coquitlam’s Minnekhada Regional Park is a great easy hike for dogs and people since it’s mostly flat, with one stiff climb up to a beautiful viewpoint. You’ll also walk along the edge of a marsh, which is a great place to watch for wildlife, especially birds. Dogs must be on a leash. Check out our Minnekhada Loop hiking guide for more information.

Gold Creek Canyon Loop, Maple Ridge

This loop route in Golden Ears Provincial Park travels through lush forest along the banks of Gold Creek and passes by a gorgeous waterfall. Most of the trail is flat and easy walking on old logging roads, but there are a few rougher sections. Dogs must be on a leash. See our Gold Creek Canyon Loop hiking guide for more details.

By TARYN EYTON
Source Inside Vancouver