5 dog-friendly Calgary hiking trails to take your best friend on

Dec 19 2017, 11:22 am

With the weather hitting a balmy 27 degrees this week in the city, hitting the mountains has undoubtably been on a lot of people’s minds. If you’re lucky enough to have a four-legged friend to keep you company, be sure to bring them along – after all, National Geographic didn’t name Banff National Park as one of North America’s best dog friendly travel destinations for nothing.

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Here are some Calgary hiking trails that are worth checking out with man’s best friend, but be sure to obey on-leash areas and pick up after your pets!

Sulphur Mountain

Happy Earth Day! Loved this view. #earthday #sulphurmountain #sulphurmountaingondola #banffnationalpark

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Potentially a more challenging hike for your pooch, the gondola is also dog-friendly in case your pup is too pooped to make it back down the mountain. Also convenient for us two-legged mountain climbers that might want to take the easy way down.

Elk Pass

 


If you’re looking for a longer hike, with the potential of camping, Elk Pass is a great option. Cross the boarder over into British Colombia and you can see Fox Lake and the Elk Lakes as well as amazing mountains. There does tend to be a lot of berry bushes later into the summer, so keep and eye out for bears and keep your doggies safely on leash!

Helen Lake

There’s no where else I’d rather be 💗🌻 #explorealberta #helenlake #mybanff #hwy93

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This hike starts with the trail being well shaded, but before long you will come to an amazing clearing in a beautiful meadow. When you reach the lake, it’s a gorgeous place to stop for lunch, and your furry friend can grab a quick drink in case you forgot an extra water bottle.

Red Rock Canyon Loop

 

Red Rock Canyon Waterton Canada #redrockcanyon #Waterton #landscape #stunning #nationalpark A photo posted by Indie Boss (@saiyphgram) on


While this trail isn’t in the mountains, it’s definitely still worth it to check out. Located at Waterton Lakes National Park, approximately two and a half hours south of the city, this trail is great as a leisurely walk, more so than a strenuous hike. The unique red rock formations are undoubtably where this path gets its name, and tends to be busy so make sure to get there early.

Buller Pass

Buller Pass
For larger pooches, or those with a little more endurance, Buller Pass is a must-do. You will get to see valleys, a waterfall, and, of course, mountain tops in this hike that has a little bit of everything. This trail also connects to the Ribbon Lake trail if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

DH Calgary StaffDH Calgary Staff

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