A mountain adventure in the Canadian Rockies is memorable every season, and it's especially delightful when your favourite four-legged friend can join in the fun. Luckily for you and your furry buddy, Jasper National Park is incredibly pet-friendly. From exploring the endless array of scenic trails to sampling local flavours and checking out the sights, you'll find a host of tail-wagging activities in beautiful Jasper.
These woof-worthy places to eat, stay and play in Jasper are sure to garner five-paw reviews from you and your pup!
Most hiking trails in Jasper welcome dogs, provided they are on a leash at all times. The only exceptions are trails in the national park's primary caribou habitats, such as Opal Hills, Cavell Meadows and Bald Hills. For a gentle and incredibly scenic walk, visit Maligne Canyon. The hugely popular spot tends to become crowded midday, so try and go early to avoid congestion on the trail.
Grab a post-hike snack or lunch from the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen and settle in with your pooch on the front patio. Your pup can cozy up in one of the outdoor dog beds while you refuel. The Pyramid Lake Loop, Valley of the Five Lakes, Wilcox Viewpoint and Old Fort Point are other top trails to explore with your pup.
If your pooch loves to play, an off-leash dog park is a great way to burn off excess energy. Bring your buddy to Jasper's fully enclosed dog park at Hazel Avenue and Sleepy Hollow Road. The well-used, off-leash area is the only place to let your dog run wild and free in Jasper National Park.
Grab your pet and take the scenic drive to Maligne Lake for the walk of a lifetime on one of the nearby trails. Moose Lake Loop and Mary Schäffer Loop are both perfectly pup-friendly options. Afterwards, grab a bite to go from the Waffle House and wander along the lakeside. Another epic activity is soaring to the top of Whistlers Mountain aboard the Jasper Skytram. The view is spectacular, and a tram ticket for your four-legged friend is as cheap as a good cup of coffee.
There are a few restaurant patios in downtown Jasper that welcome well-behaved pets. Jasper Brewing Company, Jasper Pizza Place and Karouzos Steakhouse are three favourite warm-weather options. Do keep in mind that the summer months are Jasper's busiest season, and patio availability may be limited. If you can't find a table, pick up some takeout lunch from the authentically local Terra for a pooch-approved picnic in the park.
Securing pet-friendly accommodation is easy in Jasper, as most properties welcome well-behaved pets. For an authentic Canadian Rockies escape, book at the Pyramid Lake Lodge, located a few minutes from downtown Jasper. With epic lake views, trails and on-and-off-the-water activities, this stunning lodge is sure to please. Up to two pets (dogs or cats) are allowed per guestroom.
The Miette Mountain Cabins, about 30 minutes outside of Jasper, is another unique property for pet owners. An onsite restaurant, playground, outdoor BBQs and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub create a resort-like feel. In-town options include the Forest Park Hotel, Lobstick Lodge, Marmot Lodge, The Crimson and Chateau Jasper. Call in advance for pet policies and to reserve a pet-friendly room.
While Jasper National Park is a fantastic place to bring your pet, there are a few safety tips and tricks you should know to help keep everyone happy and safe:
Learn more about pet-friendly accommodation in Banff and start planning your hound-happy Canadian Rockies getaway.
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