Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Vancouver: A Vancouverite’s Guide

Vancouverites’ love for their dogs is undeniable, and the city reciprocates this affection by offering a number of fantastic dog-friendly spots. Here’s a list of the best places to take your pup (or pups!) for a stroll, ensuring a lovely outing for both you and your canine companions.

Inter River Park

Just over the Ironworkers Bridge, Inter River Park is my top choice for a satisfying stroll with a furry companion. Its trails are exceptionally dog-friendly, offering ample space for your pup to stretch their legs and roam freely. At the park’s lower reaches, the river provides a perfect spot for them to cool down after a brisk walk or to kick off the adventure with a refreshing splash.

The trail connects to Lynn Canyon Park via the Baden Powell Trail, showcasing breathtaking waterfalls along the route. I recommend leashing your dog as you approach these sights for safety.

Address: 1301 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver

Spanish Banks Beach Off Leash Dog Area

A summer hotspot for Vancouverites, the Spanish Banks Beach Off-Leash Dog Area is the perfect destination to enjoy a sunny day. This expansive park features both sandy beach areas and vast grassy fields, offering great views of the North Shore mountains. While the park isn’t enclosed, there’s plenty of space for your furry friend to run around and play, especially in the water.

Address: 4900 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver

Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Spanning 73 km, the trails of Pacific Spirit Regional Park offer a multi-use and dog-friendly environment, providing a forested escape from the downtown core just minutes away. Amidst its pristine natural setting, it is important to keep a close eye on your pup to ensure they stay within the designated areas and respect the park’s environmentally sensitive zones.

Address: 4821 – 4979 W 16th Ave, Vancouver

Hadden Dog Beach

Nestled in a secluded cove, Hadden Beach, affectionately known as “Kits Dog Beach” among locals, is a hidden gem where your furry friend can play freely. This popular spot allows dogs to run, dig, and swim to their heart’s content, ensuring they leave happily exhausted. If your pup needs a break from the sand, there’s a spacious grassy area perfect for a rest. Don’t miss the sunset views to the west from the beach, helping finish off the day right.

Address: 1000 Chestnut St, Vancouver

New Brighton Park

Living in East Vancouver, my quick fix for dog-sitting days when time is short is heading to New Brighton’s enclosed dog park. It’s the perfect place for dogs to unleash their zoomies. Offering stunning views of the North Shore and featuring a small, dog-friendly beach, this park is ideal for a lunchtime stroll. While the entrance might be a bit tricky to find initially, simply take the Commissioner Street bridge and turn left before entering the shipping yards for plenty of parking.

Address: 3201 New Brighton Rd, Vancouver

Everett Crowley Park

Just off South East Marine Drive in Killarney is Everett Crowley Park with its serene, forested landscape. While much of the park welcomes off-leash venturing, be mindful of areas where leashes are required and refer to the signage. Discover a pond in the park’s northeastern corner, offering a refreshing stop for your pup to cool off and enjoy.

Address: 8200 Kerr St, Vancouver

Lighthouse Park

Lighthouse Park stands out as one of Vancouver’s most popular destinations, drawing visitors of all kinds to its stunning natural beauty. The park boasts a variety of trails, each offering a unique terrain to explore, including old-growth forests with douglas firs and red cedars. To make the most of your visit, it’s advisable to arrive early, as parking tends to fill up quickly.

Address: Beacon Lane, West Vancouver

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Max Polubiec, Real Estate Advisor
MaxPolubiec.com
Vancouver, BC
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