Dog-Friendly Getaways in BC

It’s a ruff life being the family pet, with all the tail wagging, shake-a-paws, and afternoon zoomies. Our four-legged friends are an important part of the family and they’d feel left out if they couldn’t join us on vacation. Good thing there are plenty of dog-friendly hotels, eateries, breweries, wineries, parks, and attractions throughout BC. So, pack your bags (and your pup), and head off to explore one of these pet-approved getaways.

PRINCE GEORGE

As a gateway to the rugged wilderness of Northern BC, Prince George offers an abundance of nature trails, parks, and attractions to enjoy, with your dog in tow. Take a step back in time with a visit to the Huble Homestead Historic Site and the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum—both welcoming dogs as long as they’re on leash. Savour charcuterie and a cool pint on the large patio at Crossroads Brewery and Distillery (they even feature a Patio Pup on their Instagram each week). There’s plenty of room to roam in Ginter’s Meadow, an expansive accessible trail system near the University of Northern British Columbia. The Coast Hotel in Prince George is not only pet friendly, they have accommodated a pretty wide range of creatures: lizards, cats, birds, rodents, and even bear cubs (don’t ask). If you’re looking for an intimate ranch stay, book in at the Woodhouse Cottages and Ranch, a 300-acre property with plenty of space for four-legged frolicking.

NELSON

The Kootenays might be a bit farther away, but dog-friendly Nelson is worth the drive (and there are plenty of places to stop for business breaks along the way). Once in town, the first thing you’ll want to do is hit the trails (there are plenty to choose from). Bike-savvy dogs can join their human for a ride—how about Top Dog? Popular dog trails include Pilot Bay Provincial Park (on-leash only), Sproule Creek, and the iconic Pulpit Rock. Winter visitors can also explore the Nordic trails with their fur child. The Prestige Lakeside Resort is a relaxing and scenic escape, and just so happens to be located along the Lakefront Walkway Dog Park. While dog-friendly patios are in short supply, you can grab a to-go coffee and a bite at one of the town’s gourmet coffee shops and dine al fresco.

MAPLE RIDGE

When helicopter-riding Instagram super-pup Mister Bentley visits Maple Ridge, you know its a bonafide doggie playground. While its agricultural roots are strong, the community is also fringed by forest, mountains, and lakes—meaning plenty of outdoor fun. A few pup-friendly hotspots include Jerry Sulina Park, Cliff Falls trail at Kanaka Creek Regional Park, and Golden Ears Provincial Park (check if day passes are required). Bring your dog for a lazy afternoon on the Witchcraft Pub. Or, stroll the North Alouette Regional Greenway, ending with a patio pint at Ranch Pub and Grill at the Maple Ridge Equi-Sports Centre (your furry friend might just get a little treat too). Dogs are also welcome at many boutiques and shops in Downtown Maple Ridge. You can stay at the pet-friendly Best Western. There are plenty more dog-friendly stops along Scenic Highway 7 if you plan to continue your journey off the beaten path.

SUNSHINE COAST

The Sunshine Coast, with its long stretches of coastline and lush rainforests, gets an enthusiastic tail wag for its dog-friendly trails and parks—Sechelt alone has at least six off-leash dog parks. What’s more, Expedia recently pegged the town of Gibsons as one of its “Insta-worthy destinations to visit with your pet.” Here, you can head for a sun-drenched patio pints in a hop farm setting at Persephone Brewing or enjoy a flight in the garden at Sunday Cider. Swing by Sharkey’s Fish Locker for take-out and dine on the beach with your pooch (on leash, of course). Come winter, you can also bring your pup to Dakota Ridge for an on-leash snowshoe. There are plenty of dog-approved campsites, vacation properties, and hotels on the Sunshine Coast. Unique pet-friendly accommodation options include a geodesic dome or cabin at the Back Eddy Resort and Marina in Egmont, and the architecturally stunning Aerie guesthouse at Pointhouse Suites in Sergeant Bay.

NANAIMO

This classic coastal city makes for a fun seaside getaway with your pet. Invermere Beach is perfect for off-leash ocean splashing. Meanwhile, Cable Bay—named for the old log boom cables dotted along the shore—is great for an adventurous dog walk. Enjoy coffee and treats on the Drip Cafe patio, which overlooks Departure Bay Beach. On-leash dogs can wander with you through nearby Neck Point Park, which hugs the Salish Sea (Strait of Georgia) and looks out over the slate-grey shores of the mainland. If you’re peckish, head to the Baby Salsa patio on Fifth Street for authentic Mexican fare and a cool bowl of water for your pup. Curl up with your four-legged pal at the Coast Bastion Hotel, with views of Nanaimo Harbour. Road tripping throughout Vancouver Island? Check out the other Island stops on their dog-friendly itinerary.

Featured image:  A doggy walk through Rose Valley Regional Park. | Tourism Kelowna / Scott Bakken Productions