Road Tripping with your Pets

Thinking of bringing along your favourite four-legged friend on your next road trip? Good news. We’ve got plenty of things for you and your pooch to do!

Take a Hike

Rail trails are a great place to let your dog get some fresh air. Check out the Great Northern Rail Trail above Nelson or the Railgrade between Rossland and Warfield.
The Slocan Valley Rail Trail runs 52 km along the Slocan River from the base of the valley up to Slocan City. That’s a distance that should tire out any pup!
Quiet Sproule Creek trail near Nelson is a mellow and lush forest walk, while the waterfront Dog Walk between the Nelson airport and Kootenay Lake is a great place for your pup to cool off in the water.
Hike the Kimbol Lake Trail that starts at Nakusp Hot Springs. Walk through the cedar and hemlock forests along the southern slope of the Kuskanax Creek valley to the sub alpine lake.
Kokanee Creek Provincial Park features a small dog-friendly area, on the beach, by the boat launch
The trails around Selkirk College in Castlegar are quiet and shady with views of the mighty Columbia River
Hike the beautiful lush Kaslo River Trail, including the two signature covered red bridges, or take a stroll on the waterfront pathway overlooking Kootenay Lake
Pilot Bay Provincial Park is a meandering path along the shores of Kootenay Lake located only a few kms from the Kootenay Bay ferry landing.

Paws and Pedals

Does your pooch have oodles of energy to burn? Many of our legendary mountain biking trails are also dog friendly!
The Box Lake Trails south of Nakusp are a perfect place to exercise the pooch. Jump in the car and head over to Box Lake for an after ride dip in the lake.
Popular trails close to Nelson include the Mountain Station area, Fairly High above Rosemont, and Morning Mountain trail system. Choose from a short flowy ride to a grind with over 1000 feet of climbing and descending
Rossland features an extensive network of trails in and around town, ranging from the mighty Seven Summits to the mellow Centennial Trail

Play in the Snow

The Great Northern Rail Trail above Nelson is frequently groomed for cross country skiing south of Mountain Station, and welcomes dogs
The Slocan Valley Rail Trail and Sandon Rail Trails are dog friendly adventures to enjoy with the xc skis in winter.
Black Jack Ski Club features a loop specifically for dogs and their skiing parents
Kaslo Nordic Ski Club welcomes dogs on and off leash
Whitewater Ski Resort has 5km of multi-use trails for skate skiing, classic skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking; dogs are welcome on leash

Pamper Your Pet

Grab a treat or new toy for your furry friend at Central Bark in the heart of Nelson’s historic downtown, or check out nearby Pet Valu or Total Pet for other goodies. Pamper your pooch at Barker St Pet Spa or Doggie Styles Professional Pet Grooming
Dogsense in Nakusp has everything you need to pamper your pet, plus pick up the essentials.
Rossland is home to House of Paws Pet Boutique, highly recommended for dog lovers
For a one stop shop for grooming, dog care, and dog and cat products, head to Barks and Recreation Pet Services in downtown Trail

Please remember to always carry a poop-bag, pick up after your dog, and use a leash in provincial parks or whenever required. Most of all, we invite you to explore our friendly communities on foot with your pooch and savour the scenic surroundings and fresh air in our mountain paradise.