Best Dog-Friendly Trails in Greater Victoria

Greater Victoria has some of the best dog-friendly trails in British Columbia, and we say that as people who hike them weekly with Ziggy, our 6-year-old Rottweiler, and Sahara, our 13-year-old Lab mix. The Capital Regional District manages over 200 km of interconnected trails, regional parks, and waterfront paths, and almost every one of them welcomes dogs. The challenge is not finding a trail. It is knowing which trail suits your dog's age, energy, and temperament on any given day.

This guide covers nine trails across Greater Victoria that we actually use. Each one includes difficulty, leash rules, parking, water access for dogs, and seasonal notes, the details that make the difference between a great walk and a wasted trip. If you are new to Victoria, relocating with a dog, or simply looking for fresh routes, this is the trail list we would hand you over coffee.

Before You Go: Trail Rules for Dogs in Greater Victoria

Leash rules vary by park, and the details matter. Here is what you need to know:

• Many CRD regional parks allow dogs off-leash on trails as long as they are under control. Thetis Lake, Elk/Beaver Lake, and Witty's Lagoon all permit dogs off-leash on their trail systems. However, dogs must be on-leash in designated beach and picnic areas, and seasonal restrictions apply (see below).
• Some parks and trails require dogs on-leash at all times. The Galloping Goose Regional Trail, Lochside Regional Trail, East Sooke Regional Park, Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, and Island View Beach all require dogs on-leash throughout.
• Mount Douglas Park (PKOLS) has specific designated leash-optional trails, the Glendenning, Whittaker, and Maddock trail loop in the park's south end. Upper trails and the summit are on-leash. Check current signage as rules can change and new fencing is being installed through 2026.
• Seasonal beach restrictions run June 1 to September 15 at Island View Beach, Thetis Lake, Elk/Beaver Lake, and Witty's Lagoon. During this period, dogs cannot enter beach or picnic areas, only pass through on-leash without stopping. At Witty's Lagoon, Tower Point is the exception, dogs are permitted there year-round.
• Blue-green algae is a serious summer hazard at Elk Lake and Beaver Lake. The CRD issues advisories when blooms are detected. Keep your dog out of the water during any active advisory. Our blue-green algae guide explains what to watch for and what to do if your dog is exposed.
• Pack out all waste. Carry bags and dispose of them properly. Fines range from $100 to $150 across Greater Victoria municipalities.
• Bring water. Most trails do not have accessible water for dogs. Carry at least 500 ml per dog for walks under two hours, and more for longer outings or warm days.
• Do a tick check after every wooded hike. Western black-legged ticks are active from March through July across Greater Victoria. Our complete tick and parasite guide covers prevention and removal.

1. Mount Douglas Park (PKOLS)

The trail: A 5-km forested loop winding through second-growth Douglas-fir and Garry oak woodland in Saanich, climbing 213 metres to a summit viewpoint with panoramic views of Victoria, the Olympic Mountains, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Several secondary trails branch off the main loop, offering shorter or longer variations.

Why dogs love it: PKOLS is the closest thing to a wilderness hike within the city. The forest is dense and shaded, the trail surfaces are well-maintained, and, crucially, there are designated off-leash areas on the lower loops. Ziggy charges up the summit trail without breaking a sweat, and the breeze at the top carries salt air and sweeping views in every direction. The secondary trails through the quieter western slopes are excellent for dogs who prefer solitude over foot traffic.

• Distance: 5 km for the main summit loop; shorter and longer options available via secondary trails
• Difficulty: Moderate, sustained uphill to the summit
• Leash rules: Leash-optional (off-leash under control) on the Glendenning, Whittaker, and Maddock trail loop in the park's south end. On-leash on all upper trails, the summit, and at the beach, playground, and parking areas. Seasonal restriction: no dogs on the beach, playground, or parts of the lower parking area from May 1 to August 31.
• Parking: Main lot off Ash Road; overflow on Douglas Road. Arrive early on weekends, this lot fills by mid-morning in summer.
• Water access: No accessible water for dogs. Bring your own.
• Best for: Active dogs, off-leash play on lower loops, summit views
• Current note: PKOLS is undergoing construction for new perimeter fencing and chicane gates to protect sensitive Garry oak ecosystems. Expect trail detours or temporary closures through 2026. Check the Saanich parks page for current status.

2. Galloping Goose Regional Trail

The trail: A 55-km paved multi-use path stretching from the Inner Harbour in downtown Victoria to Sooke, passing through Saanich, Langford, Colwood, and Metchosin. Most dog walkers tackle a section rather than the full length.

Why dogs love it: The Galloping Goose is the backbone of Victoria's trail network. It is flat, paved, and connects to dozens of other paths, making it easy to build a custom-length walk for any fitness level. Sections through Langford and Metchosin feel surprisingly rural, with forested corridors, creek crossings, and minimal road noise. The trail passes directly beside several off-leash parks, including Topaz Park and Victoria West Park, so you can combine a paved walk with off-leash play.

• Distance: 55 km total; walk any section. Popular segments run 3 to 10 km.
• Difficulty: Easy, paved, minimal elevation
• Leash rules: On-leash throughout
• Parking: Multiple access points; the Switch Bridge lot in Vic West is a convenient hub, and the Selkirk Trail parking off Jutland Road is another good option.
• Water access: No water stations along the trail. Carry your own and fill up at parks with taps before you start.
• Best for: Senior dogs, puppies, all fitness levels, early morning or evening walks

3. Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

The trail: A 10-km network of loops circling both Elk Lake and Beaver Lake in Saanich, through mixed forest, open grassy areas, and lakeside paths. The trails connect the two lakes and offer multiple loop options ranging from 2 km to the full circuit.

Why dogs love it: Elk/Beaver Lake is one of the most popular trail systems in Greater Victoria, and dogs are a huge part of that. The trails are leash optional, so dogs can explore off-leash under control through the flat, well-maintained paths shaded by mature trees. There are several spots where dogs can access the water for a swim, the lakeside sections are especially popular on warm days. Ziggy and Sahara have spent countless summer mornings splashing along the shallow edges of Elk Lake.

• Distance: 10 km for the full loop; 2 to 6 km for shorter loops
• Difficulty: Easy, flat terrain with well-maintained gravel paths
• Leash rules: Leash optional on the trails (off-leash allowed). Dogs must be on-leash in designated beach and picnic areas, these areas are closed to dogs between June 1 and September 15 (must pass through on-leash without stopping).
• Parking: Large lot off Beaver Lake Road; some overflow lots may charge a fee. Fills early on summer weekends.
• Water access: Dogs can swim at the lake, but check for blue-green algae advisories before entering the water
• Seasonal warning: Blue-green algae advisories are common at both Elk Lake and Beaver Lake during summer. The CRD issues alerts when blooms are detected. Do not let your dog drink from or swim in the lake during an active advisory, blue-green algae toxins can be fatal to dogs. Check the CRD algae alerts page before every visit. Our 2026 algae season guide has the latest updates.
• Best for: Swimming dogs, flat walks, families, warm-weather outings

4. Thetis Lake Regional Park

The trail: A 6-km loop circling both Upper and Lower Thetis Lake through second-growth forest, rocky bluffs, and lakeside paths in View Royal and the Highlands.

Why dogs love it: Thetis Lake is one of Victoria's most beloved hiking destinations, and it is one of the best off-leash trail systems in the region. The forest is lush and fragrant, the lake views are spectacular, and dogs can explore the trails off-leash under control. There are several rocky outcrops that make excellent rest stops, and the main beach area at Lower Thetis is a popular swimming spot for dogs during cooler months. The forested trails have several steep sections that reward you with elevated views over the water.

• Distance: 6 km for the full loop; shorter loops available
• Difficulty: Moderate, some steep rocky sections
• Leash rules: Leash optional on trails (off-leash under control). On-leash at beach and picnic areas. From June 1 to September 15, dogs are not allowed to stay in the Thetis Lake main beach or Prior Lake beach/dock areas, you may only pass through on-leash without stopping.
• Parking: Main lot on Tillicum Road. Fills early on summer weekends, arrive before 9 AM for a spot.
• Water access: Dogs can swim at the lake outside the seasonal beach restriction period, but check for blue-green algae advisories
• Best for: Active dogs, forest-and-lake lovers, photographers

5. East Sooke Regional Park

The trail: Over 35 km of trails spanning rugged coastal terrain, forest, and shoreline along the Juan de Fuca Strait. The most popular route is the 10-km Coast Trail from Aylard Farm to Beechey Head.

Why dogs love it: East Sooke is the most dramatic coastal hiking near Victoria. The Coast Trail clings to rocky bluffs above the ocean, passes through wildflower meadows, and descends to pebble beaches where you can rest and watch for whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. This is a genuine wilderness hike with uneven terrain, exposed sections, and significant elevation changes. It rewards fit, adventurous dogs with an unforgettable experience, Ziggy treats the rocky outcrops like his personal watchtower.

• Distance: 10 km for the Coast Trail one-way; 35+ km total trail network
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, rocky and uneven terrain, significant elevation
• Leash rules: On-leash throughout
• Parking: Aylard Farm parking lot at the southern end. Limited spaces, no fill-up during peak season. Arrive early or visit on a weekday.
• Water access: No accessible water for dogs. Carry at least one litre per dog for the Coast Trail. Dogs can access the ocean at beach sections, but this is cold open-water, not a casual swimming spot.
• Best for: Athletic dogs, experienced hikers, coastal scenery lovers

6. Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

The trail: A rugged network of trails spanning 276 hectares of rocky outcrops, second-growth forest, and Garry oak meadows on the Saanich Peninsula, between the Todd Inlet and the Highlands.

Why dogs love it: Gowlland Tod feels genuinely wild. The trails wind through moss-covered granite bluffs, past seasonal waterfalls, and along ridgelines with views of the Saanich Inlet. It is one of the quieter parks in the region, which makes it ideal for dogs who prefer solitude over social hiking. The rocky terrain provides natural variety underfoot, and the forest canopy keeps temperatures cool even on warm summer days.

• Distance: 7 to 12 km depending on route; multiple loop options
• Difficulty: Moderate, rocky terrain with elevation changes
• Leash rules: On-leash throughout (provincial park regulation). Dogs are not allowed on the sandy beach at the Tod Inlet dinghy dock.
• Parking: Main lot off Munn Road; limited spaces. Weekday visits recommended for a guaranteed spot.
• Water access: No accessible water for dogs. Carry a full supply.
• Best for: Adventurous dogs, experienced hikers, those seeking quieter trails

7. Island View Beach Regional Park

The trail: A gentle 3-km beach walk along the Saanich Inlet shoreline in Central Saanich, with views across to the Martindale Valley and the distant Gulf Islands. The trail follows the beach and connects to a short inland loop through coastal meadow.

Why dogs love it: Island View Beach is one of the flattest, most accessible beach walks in the region. The wide pebble beach stretches for kilometres at low tide, and dogs love the open space, the shoreline smells, and the shallow water at the inlet's edge. The views toward the Gulf Islands and Mount Baker on clear days are spectacular. This is a reliable choice when you want a calm, low-effort outing that still feels like an adventure.

• Distance: 3 km for a casual beach walk; extendable along the full shoreline
• Difficulty: Easy, flat beach terrain
• Leash rules: Dogs must be on-leash; restricted from beach and picnic areas June 1 to September 15 (must pass through on-leash without stopping). Outside this period, dogs can walk the beach on-leash or under close control.
• Parking: Free lot off Island View Road in Central Saanich. Reasonable capacity, but fills on sunny weekends.
• Water access: Dogs can wade in the shallow inlet water outside the seasonal restriction period. The water is calm and warm compared to the open ocean.
• Best for: Senior dogs, beach walks, calm water access, families

8. Witty's Lagoon Regional Park

The trail: A 5-km loop combining beach walking, forest trails, and a lagoon boardwalk in Metchosin, with a detour to Sitting Lady Falls, a seasonal waterfall that drops into a rocky pool.

Why dogs love it: Witty's Lagoon is one of the most varied walks on this list. The trail moves from a sandy beach to a quiet forest path to a lagoon boardwalk, with something new around every corner. The trails are leash optional, so dogs can explore off-leash under control through the forest and meadow sections. Outside the summer restriction period, dogs can also access the beach and shallow lagoon water. The forest sections are cool, shaded, and fragrant with cedar and salal. The Sitting Lady Falls side trip is short and rewarding, Sahara always pauses to sniff the mist.

• Distance: 5 km for the full loop; shorter out-and-back options available
• Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat with a few gentle inclines
• Leash rules: Leash optional on trails (off-leash under control). On-leash at beach areas. From June 1 to September 15, dogs are not allowed in beach areas above the natural boundary of the sea, except at Tower Point, where dogs are permitted year-round. During summer restrictions, you may only pass through beach areas on-leash without stopping.
• Parking: Main lot off Metchosin Road; free, with reasonable capacity. Street parking along Duke Road and Olympic View Drive as overflow.
• Water access: Dogs can wade in the lagoon and ocean outside the seasonal restriction period. The lagoon water is calm and shallow, ideal for dogs who like to paddle.
• Best for: All dogs, varied terrain, waterfall seekers, Metchosin residents

9. Lochside Regional Trail

The trail: A 30-km paved and gravel multi-use path running from Sidney north through the Saanich Peninsula, connecting to the Galloping Goose and the E&N Rail Trail in Victoria.

Why dogs love it: Lochside is a gentler alternative to the Galloping Goose with a more pastoral, rural character. The trail passes through farmland, beside lakes, and along the shoreline with occasional views of the Gulf Islands. Sections near Sidney and the Royal Oak neighbourhood are particularly scenic and quiet. Like the Galloping Goose, it is flat and paved, making it accessible for dogs of all ages and abilities. We use the Lochside as our go-to when Sahara needs a walk that is easy on her joints but still stimulating.

• Distance: 30 km total; walk any section
• Difficulty: Easy, paved and gravel, flat terrain
• Leash rules: On-leash throughout
• Parking: Multiple access points; the trailhead off Lochside Drive in Sidney is popular. The Royal Oak access off Lochside Trail near Broadmead also has good parking.
• Water access: No accessible water for dogs. Carry your own.
• Best for: Senior dogs, puppies, flat-terrain walks, scenic rural paths

Trail Packing Checklist

Here is what we carry for Ziggy and Sahara on every trail outing:

• Collapsible water bowl and at least 500 ml of water per dog, more for hikes over two hours or in warm weather
• Waste bags, carry enough for the full walk and then some
• Tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers, essential from March through July
• High-value treats for recall reinforcement and rewarding calm behaviour
• A well-fitted harness, gives you far better control on steep or rocky terrain than a collar alone
• A basic first-aid kit including styptic powder for torn nails, antiseptic wipes, and your vet's emergency number
• Booties or paw wax for rocky trails like East Sooke and Gowlland Tod, where granite can be abrasive on paw pads

Which Trail Is Right for Your Dog?

Not every trail suits every dog. Here is a quick guide:

• Senior dogs or puppies: Galloping Goose, Lochside, Island View Beach, Witty's Lagoon. Flat, paved or beach terrain, minimal elevation.
• Medium-energy adult dogs: Mount Douglas (PKOLS), Thetis Lake, Gowlland Tod. Moderate effort with rewarding views and varied terrain.
• High-energy athletic dogs: East Sooke Coast Trail, Gowlland Tod extended loop, Mount Douglas summit. Steep, rocky, and genuinely challenging.
• Dogs who love water: Elk/Beaver Lake (check algae advisories), Thetis Lake (outside seasonal restrictions), Island View Beach (shallow inlet), Witty's Lagoon (calm lagoon water).
• Dogs who prefer quiet trails: Gowlland Tod, Witty's Lagoon, Lochside (rural sections), Island View Beach on weekday mornings.
• Dogs who need off-leash time: Thetis Lake, Elk/Beaver Lake, and Witty's Lagoon all allow dogs off-leash on trails (on-leash at beach/picnic areas). Mount Douglas Park (PKOLS) has a designated leash-optional loop on the Glendenning, Whittaker, and Maddock trails. For more off-leash spaces, see our off-leash parks guide.

The Bottom Line

Greater Victoria's trail network is one of the most dog-friendly in Canada. From a gentle 3-km beach walk at Island View Beach to a rugged 10-km coastal hike at East Sooke, there is a trail that matches your dog's abilities and your own ambition. The key is knowing the leash rules, checking seasonal restrictions, packing the right gear, and choosing a trail that suits your dog's fitness level.

Ziggy and Sahara have hiked all nine of these trails, and each one offers something different. The Galloping Goose is our reliable everyday choice. Mount Douglas is our weekend summit ritual. Elk Lake is where they cool off in summer (when the algae cooperates). And Witty's Lagoon is the one we save for days when we want variety without the drive.

Whatever trail you choose, bring water, bring waste bags, and bring your sense of adventure. Victoria's trails are waiting for you and your dog.

For more local dog guides, check out our articles on dog-friendly restaurant patios, off-leash dog parks, dog swimming spots, and our complete guide to dog-friendly living in Greater Victoria.

Happy trails, Victoria. Ziggy and Lady Sahara send their paws of approval.