If you’re wondering just how pet-friendly Whistler is, then look no further. Our resort town whole-heartedly welcomes dogs to enjoy our trails, lakes, hotels, and services. Whether you’re visiting town for the day or planning a week-long retreat, here’s why you should bring your dog:
Pet-friendly Whistler Trails
There are a large number of pet-friendly Whistler trails. If you’re looking to venture out with your four-legged buddy, we’d recommend placing these at the top of your list:
Cheakamus Lakeside Trail
Not your average walk in the woods, the Cheakamus Lakeside Trail (4km) meanders from Cheakamus Crossing through old-growth forest, alongside the turquoise Cheakamus River to a suspension bridge, crosses and loops back. Our favourite time to walk this trail is the spring when the river is particularly engorged and the first buds begin to sprout. There are options to extend your walk, which include the Loggers Lake Trail and the Crater Rim Trail.
Lost Lake Trails
We love the Lost Lake Trails because they’re accessible year-round and welcome hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing – all with your furry companions! There are numerous routes to choose from and even a dog-friendly beach, which is perfect for cooling off in the summer. If you’re looking to snowshoe/cross-country ski, pay a visit to The Passiv Haus where you can rent equipment and get a trail map. When it comes to pet-friendly Whistler, Lost Lake Park ticks a lot of boxes.
Sproatt Alpine Trail
This is easily the most challenging of our pet-friendly Whistler hikes. The Sproatt Alpine Trail covers around 14km (roundtrip) with an elevation gain of 950 metres. Our favourite trail access is from Nita Lake Lodge where you can cross the Train Station bridge, and make your way through the Nita Lake Residences to the AC/DC trail, which links up with ‘Danimal South’, ‘Flank’, and ‘Don’t Look Back’ trails (we’d recommend downloading the ‘All Trails’ or ‘Trail Forks’ apps). Navigate your way to ‘Into The Mystic’ where the real elevation gain starts! The views from the top are incredible and well worth the effort. Note: this is a shared trail so be sure that you and your pupper give way to bikes.
Pet-friendly Whistler Lakes
We couldn’t write a post about pet-friendly Whistler without mentioning some of our amazing lakes! If we were taking the pooch for a stroll, here’s where we would be heading:
Alta Lake Park
Known locally as “Arfa Park”, the off-leash area at Alta Lake Park is a firm favourite for dogs. It’s set away from the more “touristy” parts of town but remains easily accessible thanks to ample free parking and the Valley Trail network. Arfa Park includes a dog-friendly beach and dock, sandpit (for digging), and a double-fenced gate (to prevent runaways).
Rainbow Park
You’ll find “Barking Bay” on Alta Lake in Whistler’s Rainbow Park. It’s another great spot for dogs to run and swim off-leash. The dock even has a ramp for dogs to climb up and out of the water on their own. If you have time (and the weather permits), we recommend taking to the water with your dog on an SUP. They can be rented via Backroads Whistler on this link.
Nita Lake
Tucked away in Whistler’s Creekside neighbourhood, Nita Lake is perhaps the most secluded and lesser-known of Whistler’s lakes. This makes it a very relaxing place to hang out. There are two docks on the lake and a beautiful patio at Nita Lake Lodge if you fancy a beverage. If you’d like to explore further afield, the Valley Trail skirts along the lake and leads directly to Alpha Lake (south) or Alta Lake (North).
Pet-friendly Whistler Accommodation
If you’re experiencing pet-friendly Whistler for more than just the day, you’ll be pleased to learn that dogs are welcome at many of our hotels too! Here are 3 options to suit most budgets:
Executive Inn, Whistler
Recognized on Tripadvisor as the #2 Best Value of 12 Budget Hotels in Whistler, Executive Inn is a great option if you’re looking to be central in the main village area. They’re easy walking distance to shops and gondolas and guest amenities include a heated outdoor pool and EV charge point. We found rooms as cheap as $95 per night (May 2020).
Nita Lake Lodge
Enjoy the suite life at Nita Lake Lodge – Whistler’s only lakefront hotel. Pets are welcome year-round and in-room amenities include plush dog bed and feeding bowls. The location has excellent access to 2 pet-friendly Whistler lakes (Alpha and Nita), as well as numerous walking and biking trails. The on-site café has a nice patio and even sells doggy treats for 25¢, which means you can enjoy a coffee al fresco with your doggo each morning, too!
Four Seasons Resort & Residences
This has to be the most luxurious accommodation for you and your pampered pet. Four Season’s Resort & Residences is where VIP (Very Important Pooches) while away their time in the mountains. Amenities include 24-hour in-room dining, daily wine tastings, and ski concierge (seasonal). They even have a resort dog named Maola, who is sure to make you and your furry friend feel welcome.
Pet-specific Services
Here are some additional pet-friendly Whistler services to elevate your experience:
- Whistler Dog-sitting
- Coast Mountain Veterinary Services
- Pet Photography by Gabi Möeller
- Supplies, Grooming and Pet Health at Twin Trees
For more ideas on places to go and things to sniff, we’d recommend checking out this post by our friends at Tourism Whistler.
