11 Best Dog Walks in Victoria BC [waterfalls and lakes included]

Have you been wondering what are the best dog walks in Victoria BC on Vancouver Island? I’ve got you covered!

If you’re planning a trip to Victoria, BC on the ferry, or are a local on the hunt for new dog-friendly spots, you’ve landed on the right guide.

This past summer we spent an entire month in this beautiful city, exploring its trails and parks with our two terriers, Sam and Denver. In our years of travel experience with our dogs all over the US and internationally, we can confidently say that there are incredible dog friendly things to do in Victoria BC, and it offers some of the best walking and hiking spots we’ve ever encountered. If our dogs could talk, I think they would ask to move here permanently.

We made a list of our favorite places to go on walks with our dogs in Victoria organized geographically. We’ll point out what the leash situation is and share details of who might enjoy these walks the most. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, this guide is designed to help you and your canine traveler explore Victoria’s scenic beauty with absolute confidence.

If you are coming from the US, learn about bringing your dog to Canada

The Details – what makes this one of the best dog friendly walks?

Dallas Road needs a little explanation for how it is structured. It is next to a busy driving road for vehicles. Adjacent to the road are multi-use paths for bikes, skates, and walkers. Further in, a corral fence “encloses” an off-leash area for dogs that spans for miles. Beyond the fence, a walking-only path is designated for leashed dogs and other walkers. All overlooking the cliffs and sea views which serve as a stunning backdrop. There are a number of places to park for free along the route.

Leash Rules

The area inside the corral fence is leash-optional, ideal for dogs that love to run and chase balls. Outside the fence, dogs should be kept on a leash, especially along the walking-only path.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

Dallas Road was a hit for our family. Denver had a great time with his freedom in the off-leash area, while Sam, who needs to stay on his leash, loved taking in the sniffs and sights along the walking-only path. The layout was unique, but still allowed us to walk generally together and still give each dog what they need.

Who Should NOT Visit

Dallas Road can get busy and crowded with dogs and their owners, cyclists, and even dogs chasing things. The off-leash area isn’t fully enclosed by a solid fence. The area is bustling, so a reactive or anxious dog is more likely to have an issue here.

2. Songhees Walkway: A Journey Through Varied Terrains

The Details – what makes this a great place to walk with your dog?

Located in Victoria West, Songhees Walkway offers an easy, flat walk that starts in the city, takes you over the Johnson Street Bridge, and leads you through diverse landscapes. The path opens up to a patio area adorned with greenery before narrowing down to a walkway along the harbor. The round-trip takes over an hour. If you start downtown, be prepared for paid parking. Plus, there’s a water taxi stop for added convenience.

Leash Rules

Songhees Walkway is a leash-required area, making it a safe and controlled environment for all canine travelers.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

Songhees Walkway was a hit for our family. The mostly flat terrain made it easy for our senior dog, Sam, to enjoy the walk. The route offered an interesting sniffing combo for the dogs, blending urban and natural elements. Denver was particularly intrigued by the myriad of scents along the way.

Who Should NOT Visit

The area close to downtown can get busy and bustling, so if your dog is reactive or anxious, this might not be the best spot for them. Instead, start your walk in the neighborhood after the bridge. If you go on a weekday, it should be. a lot quieter. Our dogs were also a little nervous crossing the bridge due to the texture of the material and the reverberations.

3. Gardens of the Government House: A Tranquil Stroll Amidst Blooms

Leash up and enjoy a leisurely stroll through these captivating gardens. Your pup might not get to run wild, but you’ll both appreciate the change of scenery and peaceful atmosphere. 🌸

The Details – what makes this a beautiful place to visit with your dog?

Nestled in Victoria West, the Gardens of the Government House offer a serene escape with 36 acres of manicured gardens and native woodlands. This is more of a leisurely stroll than a brisk walk, perfect for those looking to soak in the beauty of various gardens like the Cut Flower Garden, Dorothy Lam Orchard, and the English Country Garden. The area is open every day from dawn to dusk. Free parking is available, and you can expect to spend between 30 minutes to an hour here. While the terrain is mostly paved or gravel, there are some hills and one area with precarious steps.

Leash Rules

The Gardens of the Government House require dogs to be on a leash, making it a controlled environment suitable for mellow dogs or those in training.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

While Sam and Denver usually prefer a brisker pace, they seemed perfectly content slowing down for this visit. While there were other visitors, it was a small crowd leaving enough space for everyone to enjoy themselves. Both dogs were more than happy to pose for a few photos in the artistic vignette’s created by the landscape designer, especially when they knew a treat was coming their way afterward.

Who Should NOT Visit

If your dog is the active type that needs to run and play, this might not be the ideal spot for exercise. The gardens are more suited for a slow-paced, tranquil experience.

4. Galloping Goose Trail: A Trail of Two Worlds

Check out this incredible feat of urban planning that provides so many opportunities to get people outside and enjoy the best of Vancouver Island.

The Details – what makes this a dog friendly hike?

The Galloping Goose Trail is a multi-use trail that stretches an impressive 55 kilometers from Victoria to Sooke. It offers a variety of terrains, from urban back streets to farmland and rugged wilderness. The trail is accessible 24/7 and has multiple access points and parking lots. It’s a well-maintained path with paved surfaces that follow beautiful paths along the water, under trees, and by parks. The trail is incredibly popular for bike commutes, jogging, and dog walking, especially the section that starts in Victoria.

Leash Rules

The Galloping Goose Trail requires dogs to be on a leash. Given the trail’s popularity and multi-use nature, this helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

While the section of the Galloping Goose Trail near downtown was a bit overwhelming due to its bustling nature, Sam and Denver still had a good time. We had to manage the leash and crowd carefully, rewarding the pups for handling unexpected situations calmly. The trail’s popularity offered a lot for them to take in, but it was also a bit of a sensory overload.

Who Should NOT Visit

This trail is not ideal for dogs that are reactive to cyclists or joggers, as it can get incredibly busy, especially near Victoria. The trail is shared by many, so if your dog isn’t comfortable with that, it might be best to choose a different location.

Best Dog Friendly Trails in Saanich, Greater Victoria BC

5. Mt. Douglas (PKOLS): A Hiker’s and Doggy Paradise

This has been our favorite dog walk in Victoria. Actually, it may be one of our top 5 favorite places to walk with dogs out of all the places we’ve ever been!

The Details – a must see dog friendly hike on the outskirts of Victoria

Mt. Doug, located in Saanich, is a versatile hiking destination that offers a variety of trails and stunning 360-degree views at the top. The park has a network of trails that range from easy to intermediate, making it suitable for all levels of hikers and their canine companions. The total round-trip distance is about 4 km from the parking lot to the top with a steep grade. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. There are many other options such as the Irvine Trail with a more moderate grade as well. Toilets are available at the lower parking area.

Leash Rules

Mt. Douglas is a leash-optional area, meaning your dog can be on a leash or under voice control. However, it’s worth noting that the city council is currently debating this rule, so it may change in the future.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

We’ve been frequenting Mt. Douglas so much that we sometimes go twice in a day! Chris and Denver have been hiking from the parking lot to the mountain’s peak before work. The road is closed during this time, allowing for a sweaty but sturdy walk on a paved surface. Sam, being a senior, prefers the less strenuous dirt trails at the bottom, which meander through old-growth forests and offer plenty of shade.

Who Should NOT Visit

Mt. Douglas is so versatile that it’s hard to think of a dog this wouldn’t work for. The park offers a range of options, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, making it suitable for dogs of all ages and energy levels. The park is also vast and spacious, so that means it isn’t usually too crowded except for peak times.

6. Mt. Tolmie: A Different Perspective on Victoria

The Details – what makes this a great walk for you and your dog

Located near the University of Victoria, Mt. Tolmie offers a 360-degree view of Victoria and is easily accessible. If you drive yourself, the trail is about 1.2 km round trip and takes approximately 0.5 hours to complete. You can drive up to one of the parking lots near the top and then walk around the gravel trails. The trails loop around the mountain park area, providing various scenic views. There are no toilets available, so plan accordingly.

Leash Rules

Mt. Tolmie is a leash-required area, but we did encounter a few dogs not on the leash.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

Sam and Denver are happy to go on pretty much any walk. This one has some variety where it’s flat easy and fun sniffing. Then other parts that require a little more exercise with grade. And the view from the top requires the humans to slow down and really soak it all in, so the dogs kind of stood around while we enjoyed the view.

Who Should NOT Visit

If you’re not familiar with the area, the trails can be a bit confusing. It’s not immediately clear how everything connects, so if you’re prone to getting lost, this might not be the best spot for you.

7. Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park: A Paradise for Retrievers

The Details – what makes this a dog friendly adventure?

Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park is a bustling hub for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs, especially ones that love water. The park is especially popular for water sports and offers a special area for retriever training. It has easy parking and clean bathrooms. The trails are predominantly gravel and flat, 10K circling the lake for a customizable walking experience. There are also equestrian trails, although we didn’t encounter any horses during our visit. If you’re in the mood for a picnic, the park provides some great covered spots.

Leash Rules

Dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas but must be on a leash when passing through beaches or picnic areas between June 1 and September 15.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

Sam and Denver are not really swimmers, but they found the gravel paths easy to navigate and the flat terrain comfortable. The trail was mostly tree-lined, which was different from the lake views we initially expected but still enjoyable. They noticed both large and small breeds were having a great time chasing balls in the open areas too.

Who Should NOT Visit

If your dog is sensitive to crowds or other off-leash dogs, consider visiting during less busy times.

🐶 Why We Love Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

🐾 Choose Your Adventure: Whether you want a quick walk or a 10K trek, the park offers flexibility.
🐾 Water Activities: Ideal for dogs that love to swim or fetch in the water.
🐾 Picnic Perfect: The park’s setting makes it a great spot for a picnic or a larger group gathering – perfect for a doggy meetup groups gathering.

8. Island View Beach Regional Park: A Coastal Retreat for Nature Lovers

The Details – what makes this a great walk for water dogs?

Island View Beach Regional Park is a popular destination, especially for camping during holiday weekends. The park offers a trail that runs right along the Sound, providing constant beach access. While the beach is filled with driftwood, it still offers a unique setting for dogs to play in the water. The park is also a designated nature area especially good for bird watching.

Leash Rules

Dogs are required to be on a leash at the park campground and must be on leash when passing through all beach areas from June 1 to September 15.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

We visited on a holiday weekend, and while the park was busy, it didn’t feel overcrowded. Sam and Denver found the area a bit warm towards the end since the trail is in full sun exposure, but they were happy to cool off in the car with some water. The water is calm without waves or a strong undercurrent making it safe for swimming dogs – including smaller ones.

Who Should NOT Visit

Dogs with a tendency to chase wildlife, especially birds, should be kept on a leash as the park is a designated nature area with specific signs requesting that dogs do not disturb the birds.

9. Butchart Gardens: A Blooming Surprise for Well-Behaved Pets

The Details – is there a more ideal place for an instaworthy moment?

Butchart Gardens is a 119-year-old, 55-acre display garden located in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia. Open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it’s a National Historic Site of Canada. This is the number one recommendation from everyone in California who I talked to about coming to Victoria. While you might not expect a world-renowned garden to be dog-friendly, Butchart Gardens welcomes well-behaved dogs on a short leash. However, dogs are not allowed in their food service venues, Seed & Gift Store, Carousel, and tour boats, except for BC Certified Guide & Service dogs.

Leash Rules

Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 1 meter/3 feet. Waste bags are provided at various locations, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets. Failure to comply may result in being asked to leave. You definitely don’t want to be that guy!

Sam and Denver’s Experience

We decided not to bring Sam and Denver this time. Sam’s senior stamina and Denver’s fear of fireworks made it a better choice for them to stay home. However, we saw plenty of other dogs enjoying a leisurely stroll through the gardens.

Who Should NOT Visit

This isn’t a place to take dogs to get exercise and run around. Nor is it for those who are not used to being in crowds. The entire experience is designed with the idea you are meant to literally stop and smell the roses. There were no signs that said no peeing on the vegetation, but I didn’t see any dogs lifting their leg on the gardenias.

Need help creating captions for the hundreds of pics you took at the gardens? Try out our Social Media caption generator

Best Dog Walks to the West, Greater Victoria BC

10. Goldstream Provincial Park: A Forested Oasis for Explorers

The Details – what makes this a great dog friendly hike

Goldstream Provincial Park is just a short drive from downtown Victoria, yet it feels like a different world. The park is known for its lush old-growth forests, ferns, and a creek that adds to its charm. There are a number of trail options from accessible to more serious hiking trails. Visitors can find two waterfalls as well. The park is well-equipped with ample parking, restrooms, and even a nature center. It’s also set up for camping and has covered picnic areas with long tables, making it ideal for large gatherings like a dog meetup or family reunion.

Leash Rules

Pets must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed to enter the creek, especially during the salmon spawning season.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

We found Goldstream to be a delightful escape. Denver preferred the dirt trails, which were easier on his paws. The park was lush and beautiful, with a creek running alongside many of the trails. We initially tried to access the waterfalls from a different parking lot but later realized that the easier route was through the tunnel underpass near the creek.

Who Should NOT Visit

If your dog loves to swim, they might be disappointed here as they’re not allowed in the creek. Also, dogs that are prone to chasing wildlife should be kept on a leash, as the park is a natural habitat for salmon.

11. Sooke Potholes Provincial Park: A River Paradise

The Details – what makes this a place to spend the day with your dog

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is an easily accessible natural wonder just an hour’s drive from downtown Victoria. The park is known for its unique rock formations along the Sooke River, formed millions of years ago during the last ice age. The park offers multiple trails that lead to viewpoints and river areas. The trails vary in difficulty, some even featuring steep rock stairs. Parking is available in four lots, and pit toilets are located at both Parking 1 and Parking 2. The Galloping Goose Trail also starts here, offering another hiking option. Many people were walking back their cars dripping wet, so they were braver than we were with the nippy water. There’s also a campground if you want to extend the adventure.

Leash Rules

Dogs must be on a leash in the park due to wildlife encounters. Make sure to clean up after your pet. Tons of dogs were swimming.

Sam and Denver’s Experience

We visited Sooke Potholes at the end of a bustling day. While we didn’t take a dip—too chilly for our taste—Sam and Denver had a blast exploring the trails and rock pools. The park was busy, especially near the entrance, but it didn’t feel overwhelming. Our little adventurers had to navigate some rocky terrain, but larger dogs should find it a breeze.

Who Should NOT Visit

This park is not ideal for dogs that are reactive to other dogs, given its popularity and the presence of many off-leash pets.

Off-Leash Rules for Dog Parks in Vancouver Island

Basic rules to remember when using off-leash areas during Dog Walks in Victoria, BC:

• Current License Tag: Ensure your dog is wearing a current license tag on their collar.
• Waste Disposal: Pick up after your dog and dispose of waste in a garbage can.
• Playground Boundaries: Keep your dog outside of playground boundaries.
• No Digging: Do not allow your dog to dig holes in the park.
• Personal Space: Do not let your dog jump up on people.
• Control: Ensure you have control of your dog at all times, whether on or off-leash.

Essential Tips for Dog Friendly Hikes Victoria BC

Gear Up 🎒

• Paw Protection: Some trails have rough or gravelly terrain. Consider dog booties for paw protection.
• Hydration: Always carry enough water for both you and your pet, especially on longer hikes.

Know the Trail 🗺️

• Trail Difficulty: Research the trail’s difficulty level to ensure it’s suitable for your dog’s age, size, and fitness level.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of local wildlife and keep your dog on a leash when necessary to protect both your pet and the animals.

Timing is Everything ⏰

• Avoid Peak Hours: If your dog isn’t a fan of crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon walks.
• Weather Watch: Keep an eye on the weather. Some trails can get muddy after rain, making it challenging for smaller dogs.

Local Etiquette 🐾

• Right of Way: Hikers going uphill have the right of way. Make sure to step aside with your dog.
• Greeting Other Dogs: Always ask for permission before allowing your dog to greet another.

Health and Safety 🚑

• First Aid: Carry a basic pet first-aid kit for minor injuries.
• Tick Check: After your hike, check for ticks, especially if you’ve been walking through tall grass or wooded areas.
• Algae: Keep an eye out for the signs. The blue-green algae can make your furry friend sick especially if they drink the water.

Enjoy the Scenery 🌳

• Photo Ops: Don’t forget your camera! Victoria’s trails offer some of the most scenic views, perfect for a photo with your pet.

FAQs About Walking Your Dog in Victoria, BC