Where are the best dog-friendly trails in Greater Victoria?

The Galloping Goose is the backbone of Greater Victoria's trail network, stretching 55 kilometres from the Inner Harbour to Sooke. The trail passes through View Royal, Langford, Colwood, and Metchosin, with multiple access points for dogs. The section from the Gorge Bridge to the Selkirk Trestle is the most popular for dog walkers, offering waterfront views and shaded stretches.

Running from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal through Sidney, North Saanich, and into Saanich, the Lochside Trail connects farmland, ocean viewpoints, and residential areas. It links to the Galloping Goose at the Switch Bridge, creating an extensive loop. Dogs must stay leashed, but the wide trail and open sightlines make it comfortable for reactive dogs.

The E&N Rail Trail follows the old rail corridor from Sooke through Metchosin and into Langford. It offers a quieter, more natural experience than the Galloping Goose, with forested sections, creek crossings, and open meadows. Dogs love the varied smells and terrain. Some sections can be muddy in winter.

Mount Douglas (PKOLS) offers 5 kilometres of forested trails with a summit viewpoint overlooking the city and ocean. The lower trails are gentle and shaded, while the summit route includes stairs and steeper grades. Off-leash activity is permitted on trails and in designated areas. The trails are well-maintained and offer a true forested escape within the city.

Thetis Lake is one of the most popular regional parks in Greater Victoria, with a network of trails circling two lakes through second-growth forest. The trails are well-signed and maintained, with swimming areas in summer. Dogs must be leashed in most areas, but the varied terrain and water access make it a favourite for adventurous dogs.

Elk Lake and Beaver Lake offer a 10-kilometre trail loop through forest and along the lake shore. The flat, well-maintained paths are ideal for longer walks and jogging with your dog. The lake provides water access for swimming in warmer months. This is one of the most popular exercise spots for dog owners in Saanich.

The Dallas Road waterfront trail is Victoria's most iconic dog walk, stretching along the bluff above the Strait of Juan de Fuca with views to the Olympic Mountains. A designated off-leash zone near Cook Street makes this a favourite for morning dog walkers. The lower beach areas may have different rules than the upper trail.

Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park is a challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic summit views. The trail climbs through second-growth forest with exposed root sections and rocky terrain near the top. Only suitable for fit, active dogs with good joint health. Not recommended for puppies or senior dogs.