The Dog Walks Me

Category: Vancouver

  • Guide to Beaches and Paddling Lakes on the Sea to Sky Highway

    Guide to Beaches and Paddling Lakes on the Sea to Sky Highway

    The Sea to Sky Highway linking Vancouver to Whistler and Pemberton is one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Weekend warriors load up every Friday evening and fill up the parking lots to every easily accessible lake, trail, and park along the road. Here’s a guide to the Lakes and beaches of the Howe Sound along the highway, and places I like to take a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe with my two Vizsla dogs Whiskey and Bourbon.

    Many of these places do fill up quickly on weekends and parking is not allowed on the highway so I would suggest weekdays or very early weekends to get a parking spot! The guide moves from Vancouver to Pemberton and is location based. Check the tides for anything in Howe Sound and wear a life jacket! In case you’re a dog owner, here’s a blog on how to get started paddling with your dog.

    🚗 Car Access
    🚶‍♂️ Walk to Access
    💪Hike to Access
    🚽 Toilets
    🗑️ Garbage Bins
    🛑Difficult Parking
    🚫No Dogs

    Vancouver-Squamish

    Whytecliff Park 🚶‍♂️🚽 🗑️ – The access is down a set of stairs and a rocky beach. Check the tides before you go! There are seals, periodic whales, and an islet (island sometimes connected) to paddle around. Sunset is gorgeous. This is also a common diving spot so watch for divers! Bathrooms and a small food concession is on site as well as a small trail, green grassy space.

    Kelvin Grove Beach 🚶‍♂️🗑️- Lions Bay Beach Park may be preferable for those without dogs, but Kelvin Grove Beach is Dog Friendly. There is paid parking, and the access is down a short trail to a small set of rocks with logs. Depending on the tide you will have more or less beach to launch from with your dogs. No bathrooms.

    Porteau Cove 🚗🚽 🗑️ -A much larger beach and area to launch from. There is a campground connected to the beach as well as a large dock. Bathrooms are available and there’s lots of places to launch especially when the tide is low. Very quick and easy access from the car to beach.

    Furry Creek Beach 🚶‍♂️🚽🗑️- There is less parking and a bit more walking involved than Poteau Cove to the beach access at Furry Creek Beach, however because of this the area is a bit more quiet. There is very little beach on high tide so be aware!

    Squamish-Whistler

    Mamquam Beach 🚶‍♂️-in Squamish is currently under a series of construction so it’s hard to tell how access is lately. Right now there’s a decent walk to the beach from easy parking downtown Squamish but the beach has the best view of the Chief especially during sunset.

    Spit Road 🚶‍♂️- in Squamish has lots of options to park and launch a boat, however be warned that the river can move quickly and you’ll likely be hiking your way back up the road when you’re done. Have knowledge of river paddling, the waterflow, and tides before putting into the Squamish River (especially if you’re going to drop in further upstream).

    Alice Lake 💪🚽 🗑️ – Alice Lake Provincial park has 4 lakes. The easiest accessible lake for paddling is Alice Lake itself but it’s not dog friendly (even the trails around the lake prohibit dogs). Stump Lake is the easiest accessible lake for paddling with dogs and is quite quiet for boats and swimming even on a busy day.

    Cat Lake 🚶‍♂️🚽🗑️ – Cat Lake a small lake with loads of docks. It’s great to practice paddling as it’s so small with so many access points and lots of parking. Even so, on weekends the campground fills out and it can get extremely busy. An AWD is advised as the road can get rough and in winter it can be impassible. Boat access is a short walk down a wide trail to the main dock. There are pit toilets at parking and lots of garbage bins.

    Brohm Lake 💪🚽- Brohm lake has very limited parking, especially in the summer weekends. There can be a lineup of cars waiting to get in further up the highway. It’s a long narrow lake and water access isn’t the easiest. If you take the trail going south from the parking lot, you get to the lake quicker but you’re launching from rocks. There’s also water access if you walk up north but you’ll be hiking up and down big rocks. The area is beautiful and there are pit toilets up the North trail from the parking lot but no garbage bins currently (please take your garbage out!).

    Levette Lake 🚶‍♂️🚽🗑️- A beautiful lake up a FSR (Forest Service Road). You will need AWD on your car in order to get up the road and there’s limited parking. The water access is a short walk from the parking, which has garbage bins and pit toilets. There is very little “beach” to launch from and the area can get very busy on weekends. This may not be accessible in the winter and there are cougars and bears in the area.

    Hut Lake 💪🛑- 4.5km hike down a wider easy trail from Levette Lake. You can drive further up the road shortening this hike if you have a 4wd and if you have a monster truck you can drive the entire way to the lake HOWEVER I have seen several trucks attempt this and be stuck and it is not an easy location for someone to come pull you out! A much quieter lake because of the hiking access but with no toilets, bins, and extra cougars and bears.

    Starvation Lake 💪- Either 2.6km from the highway or 3.5km from Paradise Valley Road (AWD advisable). An easy walk down a trail to the lake provides a lovely paddle on a nice summer day. There is limited parking on the Highway and you’ll have to walk along the highway for a small stretch before the trail starts down. Paradise Valley can get busy with campers and cars as well.

    Lucille Lake 💪- Halfway to Whistler sits Lucille Lake. Again, busy on weekend especially with locals, there is a limited parking on the FSR over Chance Creek Bridge. There are two launch points that involve a short walk in. The further beach has a nice sandy beach, great to lounge or launch from. There’s also a huge questionable bike ramp on one side of the lake. With no toilets or bins, keep your dogs really close and don’t wander too far into the woods.

    Daisy Lake 💪🛑- A large lake on the way to Whistler but this one is NOT easily accessible. It’s also closed to organized recreational activity and BC Hydro has it damned so the water level changes radically.

    Callaghan Lake 🚗🚽- Callaghan Lake needs AWD access up a longer road filled with waterbars off the Sea to Sky Hwy. Launch access couldn’t be easier as you can drive right up to the lake to drop off a boat. The lake is large and surrounded by mountains. There are campsites, pit toilet but no bins.

    Madeley Lake 💪- Access by an easy walk off the FSR that leads to this lake. AWD accessible the last I checked (perhaps 4WD now) and less visited and paddled lake. Small beach access with wild camping, no toilets or bins.

    Whistler-Pemberton

    Alpha Lake 🚶‍♂️🚽🗑️- A smaller lake with a dog friendly area, Alpha lake has lots to see and like most of the other lakes can get busy on summer weekends. Being a smaller lake in an exclusive neighborhood, parking can be more difficult but there are so many lakes to choose from in this location.

    Nita Lake 🚶‍♂️🗑️ 🛑- A smaller lake that doesn’t have the easiest parking access. I Haven’t paddled this lake but there is a trail around most of the lake with access to drop a boat in.

    Alta Lake- 🚗🚽🗑️ With a dog-friendly beach, this is another beach I occasionally visit. The rainbow Park area has bathrooms, parking, and bins as well as a swimming area and dock. There are beautiful views of Whistler from the lake as well as lots of docks and big houses to check out.

    Green Lake- 🚗🚽🗑️ My favorite lake to paddle in Whistler. Green lake has easy access from many different trail and neighborhood parking along the lake. There’s also high end restaurants, chalets, and a gold course right by. Watch the seaplanes take off right in front of you (and please get out of the way!) and paddle around the gigantic mineral rich green lake.

    Whistler River– Golden Dreams Route- Paddle from Alta lake to Green Lake on this slow moving 5km route. You’ll see geese, maybe some bear, and lots of beautiful scenery. Aim for early summer as late summer the water can be low and you might need to portage a section. Check the water level before heading out as there’s a tricky section that might have you in the water. There are also tours you can take!

    Lost Lake– 🚶‍♂️🚽 🗑️ A lovely little lake with an easy beach to spend a summer day. Dogs are not permitted on the beach however but they’re welcome at “Canine Cove” 400m to the north.

    Pemberton and further

    One Mile Lake 🚗🚽 🗑️ – A lovely small lake with easy parking and beach access. The dock is easy to launch from and although the beach doesn’t allow dogs, no one has complained as we launched a boat with dogs from the dock. This is a lovely place to paddle for sunset and has lots of trails to hike when you’re done paddling.

    Lillooet Lake 🚶‍♂️🚽🗑️- The largest lake on this page by far! There are many access points along the In-shuck-ch FSR the easiest being Strawberry Point site with pit toilets, bins, and campgrounds. Access is down a dirt path to a rocky beach that stretches for a very very very long time. Because the lake is larger, pay attention to winds, however you can paddle here all day and still have loads to discover.

    Lower Joffre Lake 🚶‍♂️🚽🗑️🛑🚫- One of the most beautiful turquoise lakes, this park is now NOT dog friendly and also needs a day-pass. There is no reception at the lake so the pass must be garnered before heading up to the lakes and it is almost always packed. The lower lake is a short walk in and there is a small area to launch from. Pitt toilets and bins are available but sometimes both can be full.

    Duffey Lake- 🚗🛑 There is very little access to Duffey Lake but the area isn’t usually too busy. There are some places to pull over on the Duffey Lake Rd, or a viewpoint area on the East side with parking for several cars. The lake is huge and turquoise and surrounded by mountains. No bins or toilets, nor beach though!

    Seton Lake- 🚗🚽🗑️ Another absolutely gorgeous lake with limited parking access in the summer. If you’re feeling adventurous with a good car, you can drive around the lake and find quieter places to launch from or just to take photos.

    Birkenhead Lake 🚗🚽🗑️- Another provincial park with camping sites, toilets, and bins. The road is a bit rough but most cars can make it just fine, and I’m pretty sure there’s no reception. The area is beautiful with mountain backdrops and a beautiful lake. Perfect for swimming, there is a beach to launch from and it’s very easy to find a quiet spot to yourself on the lake

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  • Ultimate List of Dog-Friendly Hikes in Squamish/Sea to Sky

    Ultimate List of Dog-Friendly Hikes in Squamish/Sea to Sky

    warnings:

    Most of Squamish is officially dogs-on-leash however you’ll find most people skirt these rules outside of the downtown areas. Squamish, including downtown has loads of wildlife you must be aware and prepared for. DO NOT let your dogs off leash if you cannot recall them from wildlife. You will find Black Bears, Coyotes, Eagles everywhere throughout Squamish including residential areas. There are also Cougar sightings almost constantly in one trail or another, and less common are wolves, Grizzly bears, bobcat, and elk. Check trail reports before you go to avoid cougar and bear sightings.

    Here’s a list of beaches and lakes to take your dog paddling along the Sea to Sky from Vancouver to Pemberton and beyond!

    Wonderland Trail is super green in the winter

    Parking is very limited in the summer in certain places, especially weekends. Avoid busy areas with dogs as a curtesy of other trail users. Trails may close due to Grizzlies and Black bear issues so check before leaving. Roads can close due to flooding/washouts. Roads and parking are also different in the winter as many FSRs are snowed in and never ploughed. Chains are usually necessary in the winters. Check avalanche forecasts and have knowledge before you head out. Many areas have no reception so download or print maps, and have a point of contact if your car breaks down.

    Alexander Falls Frozen in the Winter

    Easy- 1 hourish

    Ray Peters–
    Very flat, official dog-off leash area, can be close to the highway so be aware, bears, coyotes, lots of options to make your own, also good for biking

    Alexander Falls
    Winter hike, entrance fee to Callaghan, microspikes advised

    Whistler Trainwreck
    Several entry points, watch for trains and broken bottles, metal on the ground

    Wonderland
    Close to highway, so be aware! Great for running on-leash or biking

    Cat Lake
    Extremely busy in summer, AWD, not ploughed in winter

    Starvation Lake/ Cheakamus Canyon
    AWD advised to park in the canyon, must leash up to start by highway

    Crumpit Woods is close to town but beautiful views

    Moderate- under 3 hours, uneven ground

    Crumpit Woods
    Easy to get lost, bears and cougars sometimes present, lots of trail options

    Murrin Lake/Jurassic Ridge
    Must leash around lake, no dogs around lake, busy in the summer, easy to get lost

    Murrin Lake views overlooking the Howe Sound

    4 Lakes Loop
    Very busy in the summer, No dogs at Alice lake (walk on road do not follow the map), lots of offshoot bike trails to add-on, limited parking

    Smoke Bluffs
    Easy to get lost on the trails, Lots of viewpoints

    Brohm Lake
    Very busy in the summer, lots of trail options, awesome views from viewpoint, places to dip in the lake, leash near highway, very limited parking

    Crooked Falls
    Road can flood, AWD, Leash around waterfall, No reception

    Tunnel Bluffs

    Moderate/Hard- under 4 hours, uneven ground, steep sections, trailfinding

    Watersprite
    Very busy in the summer, Bears almost constant in the summer, cougar area, no reception, winter route is different, cars will need chains in the winter

    Debeck’s Hill
    Short but steep and easy to be lost, several options, views aren’t great

    Chief
    Very busy in the summer, may need daypass, leash around steep areas, 3 peaks for options

    Sea to Sky Gondola/Sea to Summit Trail
    Buy dog ticket at the bottom to go down by gondola, steep sections, rope areas, microspikes on icy days needed

    High Falls
    Easy to get lost, Grizzly and black bears, AWD, no reception, leash near falls

    Tunnel Bluffs
    Very busy in summer, log crossings, Black Bears, paid parking, limited parking

    Triconi is a real scramble

    Experienced only

    Brandywine
    Black bears, busy in summer, closed during snowmobile season, awd to lower parking, 4wd to higher parking, No reception, no trail past meadows

    Triconi Peak
    Scrambling and boulder fields, 4wd with clearance, wasps, black and grizzly bears,

    Lake Lovely Water
    Fast water crossing (need boat), wasps, bears, busy in the summer, no reception, no water, no dogs allowed in hut

    Seed peak
    AWD, routefinding, steep sections with rope, no reception

    Brandywine is beautiful, but it’s true wilderness

    Last warnings!

    Be aware of human feces that might be laced with drugs on trails. This is a common problem especially around where people camp, on bike trails, and busy trails. If you notice excessive panting, dilated eyes, excessive drooling, disorientation, turn back immediately and seek help. Another common issue are dogs chasing (or being chased) by bears. In both cases you should be in control of your dogs as there is very little help out of reception. Wasps can sting out of seemingly nowhere (when you pass through a ground nest) and dogs may bolt or be allergic so it’s good to have anti allergy drugs. Lastly, water loving dogs need to be leashed near fast moving water especially Lake Lovely Water, Crooked Falls, High Falls, and Sea to Sky Gondola hike. Dogs have died on these rivers that turn into waterfalls.

    Crooked Falls, slippery and a deadly fall

    Not Dog Friendly

    These places dogs are absolutely not allowed!

    Garibaldi Park (Garibaldi Lake, Wedgemount Lake, Elfin Lakes, Black Tusk), both sides of Whistler due to watershed/park rules (Blackcomb, Whistler peak, Rainbow Lake, Cheakamus Lake, Iceberg Lake, Mount Sproatt) as well as Joffre Lakes and Tenquille Lakes further north.

    Check out more on a list of beaches and lakes to take your dog paddling! And here’s a post on how to each your dog to recall off leash as well as a recall challenge to try before heading out into bear country! Support my page by checking out my shop redbarkshop.com

  • How to hike the Stawamus Chief with Dogs

    How to hike the Stawamus Chief with Dogs

    One of the best dog-friendly hikes in the area, the “Chief” overlooks the Howe Sound with incredible views of Squamish and peaks around. It’s one of my favorite sunset hikes and an iconic location for locals and tourists alike. There’s loads of blogs and descriptions of this hike so I’m going to keep this very dog-oriented.

    As this is a hike up a mountain, it involves lots of elevation gain over a short distance. There are never-ending stairs, lots of big steps, and can be difficult to those not used to this sort of hike. Please go slow if you’re tired and take the breaks you need to. The only bathrooms are the ones at parking, so make sure you go before starting!

    Check out this blogpost on more hikes along the Sea to Sky highway as well as beaches and lakes to paddle.

    The Chief has 3 peaks (creatively called 1st, 2nd, and 3rd) and it’s possible to do one or all of them in one go. The first peak is the lowest at 630m , and 2nd at 680 and finally 3rd at 702m. For dogs, the 2nd peak is the hardest to climb as there’s the longest metal ladder with an awkward section between rock that can be hard to get through without holding your dog. Each peak is possible but I would suggest 1st peak if you’re looking for something quicker and 3rd peak if you want the most dog-friendly, least busy route (but also the longest).

    Warnings for dogs

    These trails are busy and well trafficked and like most busy trails here, people leave food and there are chipmunks and crows on the peaks. If your dogs might go after chipmunks and run off the cliffs PLEASE keep them far from edges and have a leash system that will not break or slip off your hands. Harnesses are usually more secure than a collar from an unexpected run. There are also climbers coming up from unexpected places so be aware in case your dog might get scared of people popping out of nowhere.

    This hike is NOT puppy-friendly. The steepness paired with the hard rock is too long and strenuous for growing joints unless you will carry your older puppy down yourself (I put Bourbon in a 65L backpack).

    The trail is so busy that it can be common for dogs to find human feces along the route. Just a warning, it happens frequently and sometimes people don’t go more than 1 foot off the trail. Be careful as I’m always scared it could be laced with THC.

    When I hike in the dark, I always have lights on the dogs just in case anyone might get scared and they have lots of warning. Like any off-leash dog hike, clean up after your pup (garbage bins are at the bottom), and keep them off the trail for any leashed dogs, people that might be scared, and children. The bottom section has a fast running dangerous river so make sure water loving dogs are kept away from the current. There is no water source outside from this so I would advise bringing all the water your dogs may need.

    Parking and trail start

    starts off with so many stairs

    The most common trail (the only one I would suggest for dogs) starts at the chief parking lot and goes through the campground. There are pit toilets and garbage here and keep your dog on leash until you reach the trailhead with the stairs. There are no more toilets or garbage bins beyond the trailhead. Once you start up the stairs, you will hike up up up.

    The trail is mostly lots of big rock steps

    The first split is for the Sea to Sky Gondola (also dog friendly, with a small chain section most dogs can go up without help). Dogs are allowed to ride the Sea to Sky gondola down (but not up) if you’re looking for something different. The second split is for 3rd peak, and the 3rd split is for 1st peak. If you continue straight without turning off you will end up on 2nd peak.

    1st Peak 630m

    First short ladder up 1st

    There are two ladders to 1st peak, both somewhat short and dogs can avoid them. The first ladder is halfway between the peak and the split to 2nd. It’s pretty short and dogs can veer off to the left side and gain the same incline without a ladder. You can also lift them up the ladder easily, or, if they like agility, they can use the branches around the ladder to climb up (this is Whiskey’s preference, I don’t know a single other dog that would do this).

    At some point you’ll see permanent chains attached to rock that you don’t really need to hike up, but they do lead to a narrow section with some bigger steps that a dog might need help getting around (Whiskey and Bourbon can work out a route around them without help). There are 3 options for dogs getting up this section.

    The first way is to head up on the right hand side around or before the chains. Both human and dog can take this together to avoid the entire section I write about below.

    the thin second ladder up 1st

    This narrow section leads to a thin ladder on an angle. Before the ladder, dogs can make their way up the left side of the rock without help. The 3rd option is for dogs to climb the ladder (Whiskey loves climbing up and down this to show off to onlookers). Because the ladder is on an angle and placed on the rock, if a dog’s paws slip through, it just touches rock. I suggest climbing right underneath your dog so you can support them up if they need help. Bourbon can also climb up this way but less gracefully.

    view of Garibaldi

    Coming down, Bourbon prefers to take the route to the left, (the right when you are coming down) and Whiskey prefers the ladder. It’s harder for dogs to walk down a ladder than up and I always suggest being underneath your dog so you can help them if they want to do this.

    Steep down, slippery when icy. Keep puppies on leash (like B)

    The peak is beautiful and quick to gain. You have the best views of Garibaldi from here and great views of the city. The peak here can be very icy in some conditions so bring spikes if you suspect it might be so!

    2nd Peak 680m

    There are two ways up 2nd peak. The first is the direct route from the split of 1st peak. It’s the hardest section for dogs. There’s a way around the entire ladder section but it’s quite steep (you must turn off before the narrow part that leads to the ladder. This ladder is vertical and long so you’ll have to fireman carry your dog up the ladder. I never go up this route with the dogs, I normally go the other direction as getting down a ladder with 50lbs on your neck is easier and safer than going up.

    The longest ladder on 2nd

    The second way up 2nd peak is coming from 3rd peak. There’s a trail between the peaks that doesn’t involve ladders or extremely steep sections. I typically come up the 3rd peak, and down the second, if I’m doing second at all (I don’t tend to hike 2nd). Between the peaks is a huge drop-off so please be aware and keep your dogs on leash if you’re not 100% sure they will not run off after a chipmunk.

    between 2nd and 3rd there’s a huge drop

    3rd Peak 702m

    the most dog friendly

    3rd peak is the only one without ladders or ropes and I frequently have the entire peak to myself on weekdays. This is the one I hike the most with my girls, as its the longest option, the best views (in my opinion) and the least busy. It’s also the most rugged trail out of all 3 options and you may be looking for the trail markers on a number of occasions. I absolutely love this one on a less busy day and I’ve spent at least one birthday here eating cake with my friends.

    If you’re confident hiking back down in the dark, it’s fantastic for sunsets and you’ll most likely be the only one up there. If you have the time and don’t mind a bit of trail-finding, this is the one I would recommend to do with your dogs if you’re only doing one peak!

    Hikes along the Sea to Sky Highway

    Beaches and Lakes from Vancouver to Pemberton

  • Ultimate list of Dog-Friendly hikes in the North Shore

    Ultimate list of Dog-Friendly hikes in the North Shore

    Vancouver’s North Shore has been our go-to for short and long walks ever since we got Whiskey. As the years have gone by, it’s gotten busier and sharing the trail with other hikers, runners, dogs, bikers, and bears becomes a little more difficult.

    Here’s a mix of Instagrammable dog friendly hikes mixed with peaceful ones typically only visited by locals. If you have dogs, I would suggest to go very early, go late, go on weekdays, and rainy days, especially for busy trails. Generally, I would avoid busy trails on sunny weekends with dogs to respect other trail users. Bike trails tend to be less busy but are shared with bikers so keep an ear open for wheels coming down! Know how to deal with bears, and keep a wide berth and respect for all wildlife, as it’s their home we are entering and don’t forget the cougars and coyotes too!

    Norvan Falls in North Vancouver
    Although the 14km Norvan Falls is relatively flat, lots of people do get lost and need rescue on this trail. It leads to many tougher backcountry hikes and some people are still missing.

    Finally, trails do close over the winters and always remember the 10 essentials. If you get lost, call 911 for help as soon as you can, and if you are out of reception, take a satellite device such as an Inreach Mini. I’m linking to a variety of sources, so please check them online before you go out!

    *** busy ** well used * less busy
    🌊waterfall 🌲 forest 👀views 💦lake/river/ocean

    Ngaio at Lighthouse Park
    Lighthouse Park has wide easy access trails and wilder ones to explore

    Flat/Easy

    Lighthouse Park ***🌲💦👀- One of my favorite places to go with friends with kids, or someone that’s not able to hike anything strenuous. There’s lots of variety in terrain and views, as well as bathrooms and is very dog friendly.

    Whytecliff Park ***👀💦- Go when low tide, read the tide charts and don’t get stuck on the island! More of a fun walk then a hike with beautiful views of Vancouver, to Vancouver island. We’ve even seen a gray whale here!

    Inter River Park ***🌲💦- Connects to the Lynn Valley system and up to Lynn Headwaters, great for trail running, and has a couple beautiful watering holes to swim in. Continue up all the way to Lynn Headwaters for a very long hike or jog.

    Deep Cove Park and Wickenden Park ***🌲👀💦- A lovely flat and easy place to walk your dog. The Deep Cove community is also lovely to discover but very busy for parking on the weekends.

    Spirit Trail * -City Trail that runs 6.5km on the North Shore’s waterfront. Do a portion and see the city in a different way. I especially like the less busy West portion that becomes more green.

    Mosquito Creek Park **🌲💦- 4.2km of a meandering path along a salmon habitat.

    Whiskey in winter wonderland
    Dog Mountain in the snow is a wonderland
    Ngaio overlooking Cypress Falls with her pug Wonton in matching yellow rainjackets
    Cypress Falls is very dog friendly
    Whiskey the Vizsla looking through a fence in Vancouver
    Whyte Lake is a fairytale trail with lots of moss

    Moderate/Easy

    Whyte Lake **🌲💦- One of my favorite trails on a rainy day. There’s something special about this one, with really nice sections and big cedars and firs. There’s a walkway around a small section of the lake that’s very beautiful too.

    Old Buck Trail/Seymour Bike trails *🌲- There’s a load of bike trails on lower Seymour that are great to wander around with your pup, just keep your ears open for bikes

    Fromme Bike Trails *🌲- Similar to the Seymour trails there’s loads of bike trails to walk or run when it’s rainy or you just want a change of scenery. Keep your dogs off the bike trail, or close to you so you can quickly jump out of the path if you hear bikes coming down. There’s lots of amazing sections through the forest. Watch out for bears!

    Bowen Lookout **👀- short hike with a wonderful sunset view, keep going to St Marks but only if safe in winter

    Dog Mountain ***🌲👀- Amazing for sunrise, I only go on weekdays or it’s too busy. During the winter the road is closed so check opening times. Great views of the city and a lovely walk.

    Quarry Rock ***🌲👀💦- There are many ways to get to this famous rock, look at maps, the main path goes through the end of the Baden Powell trail in Deep Cove with a lovely walk through a beautiful forest. Can be so busy on weekends they are trying to limit the amount of people. Don’t forest to pick up a doughnut at Honey’s afterwards!

    Cypress Falls Park **🌲🌊- A friendly neighborhood park that leads to some nice falls. The falls are viewed from above and at a distance but it’s still lovely. Don’t go too close to the cliffs as it’s unstable. The trails around are also beautiful.

    St Mary’s Trail *🌲- Connects to Baden Powell and other bike trails, I normally start on St. Mary’s Ave and connect to the Grouse Mountain Highway on one trail or another and make a loop back.

    Goldie Lake Loop *🌲💦 -ski hill in winter, quiet in summer. Sometimes I just bring some lunch to eat on the slopes and do a little walk.

    Mackay Creek *🌲💦 – Another loop that ties into the Baden Powell. There’s loads of these you can make up and do depending on the time and workout you want. Great for a quieter option. This one has the F-86 Jet Crash Memorial

    Hollyburn is a quick hike with views of the Lions
    Brothers Creek goes through a beautiful forest
    Eagle Bluffs in West Vancouver
    The view up at Eagle Bluffs in the winter

    Moderate

    Seymour Peak***🌲👀 my favorite! With 3 pumps or peaks, each with amazing views, there’s so much to love about this varied hike. I would stick to first pump while there’s snow on the trail and avoid the full peak until summer as there’s avalanche risk and exposure between 2nd and 3rd. Very busy and I run into black bears frequently here.

    Eagle Bluffs ***🌲👀 – The popular route starts you at Cypress Mountain through Black Mountain, the less popular starts you at Horseshoe Bay. Either route has incline (the Baden Powell more so) but I would avoid the BP route in the winter due to avalanche issues.

    Norvan Falls **🌲🌊- A lovely 14km trail run to a beautiful waterfall. Take care on this route and make sure you’re very familiar or you have lots of daylight left as many people need rescue getting lost here. Trails starting off Norvan Falls are for advanced hikers only so please don’t attempt unless you’re fully prepared.

    Baden Powell *🌲💦- 45.5kms of trail connecting Horseshoe bay to Deep Cove. Choose a section or do it all! If you’re attempting it all, please push this trail to the “Difficult” section! For most sections, I would say it’s moderate.

    Brother’s Creek **🌲🌊💦- nice loop options in a beautiful forest with some gigantic trees, bridge was taken out but still possible to cross creek if adventurous. Try sidetrips to other lakes like Blue Gentian and Lost Lake if you want to extend.

    Hollyburn Mountain **🌲👀-busier in winter, less in summer, steep inclines with an amazing view.

    Big cedar and Kennedy falls *🌲🌊- People get lost here, I’m not really sure why but make sure you have a map you can read and are comfortable in the wilderness because it can get wild fast. The parking is mainly for bikers and can get busy in the summer.

    Mt Fromme *🌲👀- An easy to access peak and relatively rarely hiked mountain. The base starts at the bike parking and you can have lots of bikers heading up on the wide FSR. Criss-crossed by loads of bike trails, just keep an eye on your map to not get lost!

    Twin Falls-Lynn Valley-Suspension Bridge ***🌲🌊💦- busy but lovely trail that goes through two bridges along a river and some super gorgeous forest. Avoid the crowds on weekdays and the rainy season. The cliffs can be very dangerous and the river can sweep an unsuspecting pup quickly down so keep away from any edges or fast moving water.

    Elsay Lake trail is a long downhill climb to a wild lake
    Crown Mountain is a huge hike through Hanes

    Difficult

    Most of these trails are VERY technical and NOT ok for most dogs. Leashing while scrambling can be extremely dangerous and I do not recommend you bring any dogs that are not fully in control. Please do not attempt these trails alone and without your 10 essentials and letting someone know your eta. Start early and bring water for your dog!

    Elsay Lake *🌲👀💦- A rare hike that goes down, not up! The trail is easy to lose if the visibility isn’t far and goes by many rock falls that can be avalanche zones in snow. It’s harder than it looks on the map. Very few tenting spots, please do not use the Emergency shelter unless it’s an emergency.

    Coliseum *🌲🌊👀- Start this one earlier than you think, especially if you’re parking at the Lynn Headwaters that locks for the evening. Very muddy for most of the year, and possible to continue further if you’re a crazy trail runner to Mount Burwell.

    Crown via Hanes **🌲🌊👀- Only accessible through Lynn Valley, heading up through Hanes Valley and back down. This makes for a VERY full day. Dogs are no longer welcome on the BCMC but other trails like Fromme can make this a loop. High elevation gain, long distance, and a route notorious for needing rescues. The last section is technical and a scramble. If you’re parking at Lynn Headwaters, be aware of closing times or you may initiate a rescue if you’re not back at your car by the time they close the gates. Hanes is very dangerous if there’s low visibility and many people get lost here. There’s very little sources of water along the route past Norvan, and this is a no-go zone during avalanche season. Those without dogs can do a much shorter hike from Grouse Gondola (dogs not allowed on Grouse, BCMC)

    South Needle *🌲👀- The trail can be busy until Lynn Peak, then empties out and gets more strenuous. A less visited peak that’s easy to access for lovely views. Please note that you cannot access with dogs on the Seymour side (that I know of).

    Howe Sound Crest Trail ***🌲👀- One of the best hikes (or multiday hikes) you can do in the region. This hike is normally done over several days and is a hike-through so you need to have a plan to get back to your car. It’s on rugged terrain and is much harder than you might expect if you just look at the distance and gain. The trail does go through some watershed areas so please note where you’re allowed to camp. The rocks and terrain can be really rough for dogs (I’ve seen a dog tear through all 4 pads attempting this one) so ensure you’ve got all your safety gear. There are spots that are very exposed and steep, making this a no-go for most during wet or snow conditions. You can always do a section of the trail as a day-hike. There are loads of side peaks that you can do to add on but keep an eye on your water. There are not too many watering holes especially during the top of summer.

    From Mt Unnecessary looking at the Lions on the Howe Sound Crest Trail

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  • Vancouver Nov 2017 Vizsla Meetup

    Vancouver Nov 2017 Vizsla Meetup

    I’ve been pretty busy launching my Parawild company so it’s been a stretch to keep up with everything but I decided I needed to get my Vizsla fix and lo and behold, it was time for another Vizsla meetup! Of course November tends to be extremely rainy so I was really worried no one would show up on a rainy Sunday long weekend but of course, Vizsla people are not the norm. I’m not even sure how many ended up joining us as people came and went but I believe we were around 15+. The rain wasn’t too bad, and with puppies to a couple sugarfaces, it was so amazing to see the community out and taking over Barnett Marine Park. Taking photos of insanely fast dogs, in the rain, on a dark day, with wide aperture, covered with mud, and sand is….not easy! It’s really lots of luck, praying some autofocus will work, and setting the ISO very high and of course putting the camera down to give butt rubs when asked 🙂

    [envira-gallery id=”1535″]

  • Eagle Bluffs Spring

    Eagle Bluffs Spring

    the view from the bluffs
    Since the weather’s turned a little drier, we took the opportunity to plan a couple higher-altitude hikes where we might have enough luck to catch a view these cloudy days. We tried to head towards St Marks but was turned away by avalanche warnings so then turned to our trusty Eagle Bluffs hike that I’ve blogged about several times already.

    Dad! There are snowboarders to chase there!
    lots of warnings
    fetching over a mountain of snow
    throw it! throw it!
    my ginger girl
    the steep start is a good workout
    The ski slopes were surprising still open so we still had a get a “backcountry pass” for access and then we quickly headed up the snow-covered trails alongside the skiers. Crampons were very useful and Whiskey had more than her normal amount of energy chasing snowballs up and down the mountain. You would think 3 hours of running in snow would tire her…nope!

    views come quickly as you climb
    so excited to be out
    following the boys
    perfect temperature for a hike
    footprints of a mysterious animal…
    in some places the snow was still deep
    best place for a dog!
    the one soft spot in the forest
    The clouds parted just as we got to the bluff where we had a nice lunch and rest before heading back. I love these shoulder seasons as the paths are not yet busy on the more popular local trails. When the crowds start coming up, we move to lesser-known trails but those are usually harder to get to.

    really nice walk around the lake loop
    melting snow is so beautiful and Whiskey explores
    we finally get to the top!

    Whiskey as usual, had no idea why her humans were so slow and awkward coming down the slippery trails, and would try to give us kisses as we sometimes slid down on our bottoms. The best part of snow covered steep trails is the quick slides coming down. We are just waiting for a little bit more melting before heading up towards higher altitudes soon!

    just 45mins from downtown
    I love our forests here
    tired man,  energetic dog

    weeeee! this is how we descend without dignity
    until next time!
  • Feb 2016 Vizsla Meetup

    Feb 2016 Vizsla Meetup

    I’m so late in posting this but I’ve been working like crazy. Here are some photos and video of our latest Vizsla meetup in Vancouver. We met at Cypress Falls this time, and we were about 29 Vizslas!

  • Vizsla Meetup x27

    Vizsla Meetup x27

    I’ve been working overtime so it’s been hard getting out, taking photos, and writing. We are so fortunate to have a good group of V lovers in Vancouver and we met again despite the threat (and eventuality) of a downpour. This time we headed over to Richmond’s Mcdonald Beach Dog Park. I love that we always go somewhere different and I’m pretty sure the dogs appreciate it too. What follows is lots of barking, some collisions, fast chases, and the owners just trying not to get too much in the way. We’ve had some puppies grow up and some new ones join us. I can’t imagine a better morning activity and if are in the area next time (V lover or owner) just join us!

  • Widgeon Falls

    Widgeon Falls

    Paddling on Pitt Lake

    Now this was an adventure! To get to Widgeon Falls, one must drive to Pitt Lake, canoe or kayak across, make your way up a creek, and then hike a couple kilometers to a beautiful waterfall. This was my first time and I really enjoyed this day trip. The previous day Whiskey had cut her back paw so we were happy for a short walk (and a bootie to protect her).

    The sunrise light on blueberry fields
    Arriving at Pitt Lake
    Whiskey and Millie, her half sister

    We woke up really early on Sunday to drive to the canoe rental shop since we had heard it can get really busy and we had a big group that didn’t want to miss out on canoes (11 people and 4 dogs). Well the shop was supposed to open at 8am but we didn’t realize we needed to knock next door in order to get the shopkeeper (presumably living next door) to open up so we waited around for a good half hour before figuring it out.

    Tugging on a found sock, yucky!
    What mom? can we go yet?
    Millie checking out the view
    You got the canoe? Lets go!

    The canoe was wonderful and all dogs behaved themselves, even the boat with 4 people and 2 dogs (we were on a 3 person 1 dog canoe). Canoeing to the hike point can be harder than you expect if you aren’t used to paddling and steering but we had enough Canadians to work it out.

    a 4 person 2 dog canoe
    Little Ginger was also keeping watch in her canoe
    It was hard to keep Whiskey fully inside
    Amazing mist on the creek
    Really beautiful scenery
    She kept sniffing the water

    We reached the hike point (also the camping grounds) in an hour and the hike itself is very pretty and quite short. The falls were fantastic (my best friend even trucked in a cake to celebrate my birthday early) and it was just wonderful to sit in the sun.

    Beautiful light on the trail
    Millie takes a dip in the cold water
    Widgeon Falls 
    Part of our group
    A little birthday on the rocks
    My family
    Millie inspects a hole
    Shira is our gorgeous 4th dog today

    We had paddled out in the early morning on high tide (Pitt lake is large enough to be tidal) but coming back was reaching low tide so there were moments the heavier canoes had to be pushed to get through some very shallow parts (it’s a good idea that someone has water shoes). Also, on the way back Whiskey decided she had enough with canoeing and jumped out into the marsh. We were really happy we could convince her to get back in without jumping out ourselves! I do believe my Vizsla is not the biggest fan of canoes and would rather walk.

    Whiskey jumps out for a run

  • Elsay Lake Overnighter

    Elsay Lake Overnighter

    20km (roundtrip), 8-10 hours starting from Seymour Mountain Parking lot
    Link to hike OR this link 

    Lake Elsay

    This was a tough one as we didn’t expect such technical terrain and had started later than planned. Carrying heavy backpacks we took about 5.5 hours each way with lots of breaks. While it was my first time on this trail, I found the trail pretty easy to follow even though there are loads of warnings about the “poorly marked trail”. There were orange markers everywhere although I can see how it would be difficult to find the trail with fog or snow so make sure you are fit and experienced before attempting this one in less than ideal conditions. Also, there are a couple creek crossings which may be difficult in high water (we are currently in a drought so no issue there).

    photobombed!
    It would be so nice to sit down…
    Well marked path in the summer
    technical terrain
    We parked at the 2nd Seymour parking lot (designated for overnighters) and started on the trail to Seymour peak’s first pump. Right before first pump, there was a marker to veer off towards the Elsay Lake trail. From here there are about 8kms to get to the camp site and about 6kms of it is technical and tough terrain going down down down. Just a note of warning, we did see someone carrying their dog back the trail in a backpack because the poor pup had warn through their pads on the hot rocks, so make sure your dog is used to hiking on rocks and check their feet often.

    starting out with Seymour’s first pump ahead
    my vizsla-goat
    turn off to Elsay trail

    From the turn off, we soon turned a corner to see an enormous panorama of the valley. We crossed about 4 rockslides and followed one more down. There are some streams along the way (about 2kms to the lake) and the lake itself was pretty large for swimming. For space in the emergency hut, make sure you get there early (houses 6). It was a long weekend and we were a bit surprised to find another 6 tents up and a group staying at the hut.

    She loved the rocks
    just wow!
    my hiking buddies
    Taking a well needed break
    crossing a creek

    The way back seemed so much easier although it took the same amount of time (this time going uphill). We had run out of water in the summer heat so we stopped by the creek to filter a couple liters while Whiskey rested on some mossy rocks. I was surprised since this is the first time I’ve seen her lay down on a hike! We made sure she had plenty of dehydrated food, water, hard boiled eggs, and she shared all our food. She even crawled into our sleeping bags at night taking turns with mommy and daddy.

    setting up camp while Whiskey supervises
    so hungry!! feed me
    it was too hazy for stars
    waking up with a Vizsla in the sleeping bag
    swimming in the lake
    heading back home

    Overall the hike would be much faster without the packs, but it’s still pretty long for a one day hike unless you are a trail runner. The payoff wasn’t as amazing as many of the other trails we’ve done though I acknowledge we are spoiled for choice in BC. In the end I’m glad we did it but I won’t be planning another hike or overnighter here for a couple years.

    resting on the moss
    so small in an epic landscape
    my poor tired dog! only 2km left