Beautiful weather calls for long walks with your beloved dogs. The 604 has its fair share of beautiful parks and pet destinations, but among them are these top spots to take your dog for a walk in Vancouver.
1) Minnekhada Regional Park
If you want to be immersed in nature, Minnekhada Regional Park is a great place for a walk with your furry friend! The area offers seven different trails for you to explore, along with several viewpoints along the way. A favourite viewing area amongst hikers is definitely the “high knoll,” which overlooks the Pitt River and the marsh below. However, due to the surroundings of the area, wildlife is also a common sight, so be prepared to run into one of the bears which frequents the area! Also, don’t forget that all dogs must be leashed along the paths!
2) Panorama Park
Being right on the water in Deep Cove, Panorama Park is a place you will never want to leave! After a stroll by the water, sit down and enjoy the view from one of the many benches. From there, you may also want to stroll over to Deep Cove Park, to take in the water from a different area. Just remember that dogs here must be leashed!
3) Pacific Spirit Regional Park
If you are coming from downtown, this is a close and convenient park to spend the day in! With gorgeous waterfront paths and forested trails, this park truly has the best of both worlds. The area is also quite popular, so you can expect to see many others exploring the area.
4) Robert Burnaby Park
There are few dog-friendly areas in Burnaby, and this is one of the best! One thing worth noting, is that there is a large open off-leash trail not far from the parking lot, and a large network of other on-leash trails. There are also open, grassy areas, incase you wish to wander away from the forested paths.
5) The Coquitlam Crunch
Looking for a walk that will give you quite the workout? Then the Coquitlam Crunch is perfect! In fact locals often compare it to a less rigorous Grouse Grind, making it ideal for those starting to train. There is an off-leash dog park part-way up the mountain as well, so Fido can have some time to roam free.
6) Tynehead Regional Park
Tynehead Regional Park has both gravel and paved pathways, depending on where in the park you choose to roam. There is also a large open off-leash meadow for dogs to play. If you happen to pass by the Serpentine River on your walk, keep your eyes peeled, as you may spot the salmon that call the park home!
7) Buntzen Lake
Whether you are in search of a long, challenging hike, or a shorter excursion, the trails surrounding Buntzen Lake are ideal! Although dogs are not permitted on the main beach, the area is extremely dog friendly. Not only can dogs use any of the trails while leashed, but there is a one-way off-leash trail which leads to an off-leash dog park right on the water, next to the main beach! This means that after your walk along one of the gorgeous trails, you can sit and relax (or picnic) as your dog runs around, or goes for a swim! You’ll be amazed at the amount of natural beauty. However, one issue most cellphone customers will experience is a lack of reception within the area, so pay careful attention to signs and don’t wander off of the main paths!
8) Brownsville Bar Park
Brownsville Bar Park is one of the only locations on the Fraser River with a sandy beach. With 300 metres of waterfront access the park offers great views of New Westminster and the Fraser River. Located in Surrey, you’ll find a walking loop, beach and lots of open green space ideal for a picnic.
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Written by: Kerri J
photo credit: Queen of Paws
