Insider’s Guide to Snowshoeing with Dogs in Whistler


Dog-friendly hiking trails Whistler

If you're planning your next Whistler wintry escapade, there's probably a tail-wagging pawl eagerly waiting by your sides to join in on your frosty adventures.

Amongst other fun dog-friendly winter activities you can do in our mountain town, snowshoeing with dogs is probably our favourite!

As a dog-lovers town, Whistler is home to the most scenic and magical dog-friendly snowshoeing destinations in the region. Whistler's many dog-friendly snowshoeing trails are a great place to get out and explore while burning off some of your four-legged friend’s energy.

Most of Whistler’s snowshoe appropriate trails are located within four main areas; Lost Lake, Rainbow Mountain, Cheakamus, and the Callaghan Valley. Although dogs aren't permitted on the Lost Lake trails in the winter and on Rainbow Mountain year-round, there is amazing network of dog-friendly snowshoeing trails both in Cheakamus and the Callaghan Valley.

On this insider's guide to snowshoeing with dogs in Whistler, we compiled a list of our favourite, dog-friendly winter trails.

Alexander Falls Touring Centre at Callaghan Country

Alexander Falls Touring Centre is proud to be the most dog-friendly zone in the Callaghan, with access to over 27 kms of dog-friendly cross-country ski trails plus over 17 kms of dog-friendly snowshoe trails both on and off-leash!

Alexander Falls 

One of the most inspiring natural experiences to share with your pawl in Whistler. This winding single track off-leash trail immerses explorers in a deep coastal Western Hemlock forest, ultimately making its way down on a well-marked snowshoe trail to the base of a 55-meter frozen waterfall. Note that some steep sections could make this a challenge for some small dogs.

Distance: 2.4km 
Time:  1.5 hours
Cost: $6.75 per pawl / $16.50 per hooman snowshoeing / $29.50 per hooman skiing – This covers all the trails in both Callaghan Country and Whistler Olympic Park.
Map: view here.
Finger Lakes
A tranquil wilderness wander to enjoy with your pawl off-leash! Snowshoe through a coastal rainforest complete with old-growth cedars and extensive frozen marshlands. The perfect day hike destination with only nature and your pawl to accompany you.
Distance: 4.3 km 
Time:  5 hours
Leash requirements: off-leash
Cost: $6.75 per pawl / $16.50 per hooman snowshoeing / $29.50 per hooman skiing – This covers all the trails in both Callaghan Country and Whistler Olympic Park.
Map: view here.

Whistler Olympic Park

Home of the Nordic events during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Whistler Olympic Park offers the largest designated off-leash dog area in the Sea to Sky Corridor, boasting 30 kilometres of dog-friendly cross-country ski trails and 20 kilometres of on-and off-leash snowshoe trails. Tread upon the winter snowpack, weaving between beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Olympic monuments. 
Marley’s Meander
This off-leash trail meanders around the Porter’s Glide ski area and is the best trail to bring both your family and your four-legged friends for an adventure through a mix of old- and new-growth forest. 

Distance: 1.6 km 
Time:  40 -135min
Cost: $6.75 per pawl / $16.50 per hooman snowshoeing / $29.50 per hooman skiing – This covers all the trails in both Callaghan Country and Whistler Olympic Park.
Map: view here.

Shuler’s Shuffle
Shuler’s Shuffle is a more challenging, but quieter off-leash trail for you and your dog to enjoy. Catch glimpses of Brandywine Mountain and Black Tusk through the forest as you explore. 
Distance: 1.2km 
Time:  30 - 90min
Cost: $6.75 per pawl / $16.50 per hooman snowshoeing / $29.50 per hooman skiing – This covers all the trails in both Callaghan Country and Whistler Olympic Park.
Map:  view here.

Cheakamus 

Cheakamus River

Cheakamus River Trail is located at the southern end of Whistler just off the Sea-to-Sky Highway. The picturesque trail takes you through beautiful old growth forest and provides great views filled with serenity and silence. You’ll cross a narrow suspension bridge covered with snow, overlooking the turquoise water of Cheakamus River flowing below. Due to the accessibility and popularity, some of these trails will be packed down. You may find that you don't need snowshoes for much or all of the trail. Please be mindful of others sharing the trail and follow dog hiking etiquette.

Distance: 4.1 roundtrip 
Elevation gain
: Some gradual, short hills
Time: 2 - 3 hours
Cost: Free access

Map: view here.

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Local's Guide to Pet Friendly Whistler

Welcome to pawradise! Explore Whistler using our interactive map of pet-friendly hotels, dog-friendly hiking trails, dog-friendly businesses, pet stores, and more! Make sure to tag @littlepinepet in your mountain #adventureswithpawls to automatically enter our adventure gear contest!

Dog-friendly Whistler

Essentials for snowshoeing with dogs


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