Paws & Peaks: Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Wet noses, warm hearts, and endless trails to explore.

Whistler isn’t just a mountain paradise for people—it’s a four-season playground for pups, too. And at Fairmont Chateau Whistler, we know that adventures are even better when your dog can tag along. With our pet-friendly accommodations, direct access to forested trails, and concierge recommendations, your four-legged friend will feel just as welcome as you do.

Whether you’re heading out for an alpine ramble or a mellow meander, these dog-friendly hikes offer stunning views, fresh mountain air, and tail-wagging terrain, all within easy reach of the hotel.

 

At Fairmont Chateau Whistler, all restaurant patios are pet-friendly, making them the perfect place to sip, snack and stroll!

  1. Lost Lake Trails

Distance: 5+ km | On/Off Leash: On Leash | Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Steps from the hotel via the Valley Trail

Just a few minutes from our doors, Lost Lake is a dog’s dream come true. With a vast network of gentle hiking and biking trails, plus a designated dog beach at Canine Cove (off-leash area), this is one of the most popular spots for both locals and visiting pups. Let your dog splash in the lake, fetch from the floating dock, or relax in the shade after a casual loop around the water.

Chateau Tip: Grab a trail snack or coffee from Portobello before heading out, and ask our Concierge for a Lost Lake map.

PHOTO: Alicia Haque
A dog poses for a picture in front of the Fairmont Chateau Whistler main entrance
Friends with dog in Meadow park.
Two women with dog walking on valley trail through park.
  1. Riverside Trail & Logger’s Lake

Distance: 4–6 km | On/Off Leash: On Leash | Difficulty: Easy
Drive: 10 minutes to Cheakamus Crossing

This wide, scenic trail follows the Cheakamus River through lush forest to a suspension bridge. It’s a peaceful walk with options to extend your adventure up to Logger’s Lake and the Crater Rim Trail for even more mountain views. Just remember to keep your dog leashed—this is a multi-use area with bikers, trail runners, and other dogs.

Chateau Tip: We recommend visiting this trail early in the morning or in the golden evening light for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

 

  1. Valley Trail

Distance: Choose your own distance | On/Off Leash: On Leash | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Access: Steps from the hotel

Looking for a paved walk? The Valley Trail offers just that. It’s a choose your own-distance route that connects Whistler Village with local lakes, parks and views. You can hop on for a short out-and-back with minimal elevation or spend the walk exploring at your dogs pace. This is a busy trail with bikers, hikers, runners and more so be alert while keeping your pet on a leash.

 

  1. Ancient Cedars Trail

Distance: 5 km round trip | On/Off Leash: On Leash | Difficulty: Easy with short steep sections
Drive: 25 minutes north of Whistler

This hidden gem leads to a stand of 1,000-year-old cedar trees—massive, moss-covered giants that will humble even the tallest Great Dane. It’s usually quiet, especially on weekdays, and offers a cool, shaded forest walk perfect for warm summer days. Access requires a 4×4 vehicle due to the rugged forest service road.

Chateau Tip: Ask our team about current road conditions before heading out, and bring extra water if visiting in mid-summer.

people at a waterfall with dog
dog with 2 people
  1. Brandywine Meadows Trail

Distance: 11 km round trip | On/Off Leash: On Leash | Difficulty: Challenging
Drive: 30–40 minutes to the Callaghan Valley

High alpine meadows, jaw-dropping vistas, and wildflowers galore—Brandywine Meadows is one of Whistler’s most scenic hikes and a top pick for adventurous dogs and their humans. Bring lunch, a camera, and your sense of awe. This area is part of Grizzly Bear habitat, so leash up and stay alert.

Chateau Tip: Stop by The Wildflower for a hearty breakfast before your big day out. You’ll want to fuel up!

BONUS: Here is a list of designated Off-Leash Parks

Alpha Lake— Alpha Lake includes a gravel off-leash dog area known as “Arfa Park” and a designated dog dock.

Bayly Park– in Cheakamus Crossing

Rainbow Park—Barking bay at the south end of the Rainbow Park is a small grass lawn off-leash dog areas with access to the swimming dock. Dog owners are asked to keep their dog leashed as you travel through Rainbow Park to Barking Bay.

DOUBLE BONUS: Did you know we have a Hotel Dog named Archie?

If you are a registered guest of the hotel you can book a Meet & Greet through our Whistler Experience Guides. Archie is a friendly and well-trained canine who loves meeting new friends. Whether you’re a dog lover or missing a furry friend!

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