6 Dog-Friendly Winter Adventures Near Vancouver

January 19, 2022
TE
ByTaryn Eyton
4 min read

Take your dog for an adventure this winter. There are lots of dog-friendly options, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and visiting dog parks. Here are our picks for the best dog-friendly winter adventures near Vancouver.

Tips for Winter Adventures With Dogs

  • Bring a leash. Many of these adventures require one. You’ll also want a leash if there is wildlife nearby. Dogs can chase animals and then get lost or injured.
  • 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.
  • Start slow and go at your dog’s pace. Walking in deep snow can be very tiring for dogs. Older and less fit dogs may not find snow fun.
  • Pack snacks and water for both you and your pup.
  • Check the forecast and pack extra clothing for both you and your dog. Be sure to bring lots of waterproof gear and warm layers. Consider bringing booties or paw wax to protect your dog’s paws from ice and snow.

Snowshoe to Dog Mountain at Mount Seymour Provincial Park

This is one of the most popular snowshoe routes near Vancouver and it’s on-leash dog-friendly too. The trail is mostly flat as it winds through the forest, finishing at a great viewpoint over Vancouver. Reserve a free park day pass online up to 2 days in advance. Bring the trail map to stay on track.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYaLks2JTU2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Take Your Pup to an Off-Leash Dog Park

The Vancouver area has lots of great off-leash dog parks where your pup can play. On a cold winter day, a brisk run might be just what your dog needs to warm up. Check out our list of the best off-leash dog parks to find one near you.

A man throws a stick for his dog at Hadden Park in Vancouver

Photo: Whistler Olympic Park

Go on a Dog-Friendly Hike

There are lots of dog-friendly hiking trails in Vancouver. We have a list of the best Vancouver hikes for dogs to get you started. In winter, many of the trails will have a bit of ice and snow, so you’ll want to bring microspikes or other traction aids. (It’s unlikely any of these trails will have enough snow to require snowshoes since they are close to sea level.)

Snowshoe to Bowen Lookout at Cypress Provincial Park

This on-leash snowshoe hike starts easily with a flat trail past Yew Lake. But it gets a little bit more challenging as you and your dog climb steep switchbacks up to Bowen Lookout. From the viewpoint, gaze down to Bowen Island and Howe Sound. This trail map shows the way. Before you start, you’ll need to pick up a free backcountry access pass at the Black Mountain Lodge near the ski area.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYhy1p2voBL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Cross Country Ski With Your Dog

Head to Whistler Olympic Park to cross-country ski with your dog. They have over 40 kilometres of dog-friendly ski trails, a few of which are leash-optional. Dog tickets are just $6.75 per day. Use the ski trail map to find dog-friendly trails.

A man cross country skis with a dog at Whistler Olympic Park

Photo: Whistler Olympic Park

Go Snowshoeing at the Discovery Snowshoe Trails at Mount Seymour Resort

The beginner-friendly trail network at Mount Seymour Resort allows dogs on leash. The flat trails are arranged in a series of loops, so you can choose your own route. Buy trail tickets online in advance. Use this trail map to plan your route.

dog-friendly winter adventures
Vancouver
snowshoeing
cross-country skiing
hiking
dog parks
winter activities with dogs