Whistler

Markus standing in front of the Olympic rings in Whistler Village

About Whistler

We can't believe it's taken us this long to visit Whistler with Markus, but we finally did it this past summer. Since we stayed at an Airbnb, we don't have any recommendations in terms of accommodations for this particular stay. However, Whistler is generally a dog-friendly town and you're likely to find something that's great for both you and your dog.

Whistler, BC is not only a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a haven for dogs. With its breathtaking natural beauty, dog-friendly trails and welcoming atmosphere, Whistler provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure. Our recommendations for things you can do will be centred around activities that you can do with your dog.

Things to do at Whistler

On our way into Whistler, we stopped by Murrin Provincial Park near Squamish, British Columbia. Unfortunately, Murrin Park falls short in providing an enjoyable experience for dog owners due to its restrictive policies and limited dog-friendly amenities. With restrictions on dog access to beaches and main picnic areas, not much remains where dogs can go. We left fairly quickly and believe that Murrin Park can be skipped.

Alpha, Nita & Alta Lake

In Whistler, British Columbia, three captivating lakes - Alpha Lake, Nita Lake, and Alta Lake - offer a leisure trail connecting them, providing a delightful three-in-one experience for lake enthusiasts. Beginning at Alpha Lake, cutting past Nita Lake and ending at Alta Lake, the trail winds its way through stunning scenery, allowing for leisurely walks and activities by the water.

Markus taking a walk between Nita Lake and Alta Lake

While the trail is pet-friendly with thoughtful signage for dog owners, the popularity of the path among pedestrians and cyclists can detract from the overall leisurely experience. Caution and attentiveness are required to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing, particularly for reactive dogs.

Exploring the Village

Whistler Village is not only a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, but also a welcoming place for dogs. Many shops and restaurants in the village have dog-friendly policies, allowing you to bring your dog along as you explore if they're comfortable staying on patios. We should mention, though, that Whistler is a hotspot for vacations and tourists so it is often packed with crowds, especially in the summer. If your dog is not comfortable with crowds, be mindful of this.

Rainbow Park

Situated on the eastern side of Alta Lake, Rainbow Park offers a range of activities for visitors. From swimming and playing volleyball to exploring the scenic trails, the park provides amenities such as picnic areas and public washrooms. Rainbow Park is typically bustling during the summer months and notably features Barking Bay, a designated off-leash dog area with beach access and a doggy ramp, making it an ideal spot for dogs to enjoy a swim.

Markus standing on the dock off of Barking Bay at Rainbow Park

Alexander Falls

Alexander Falls is a captivating natural wonder located in Whistler, British Columbia. While the falls themselves are undoubtedly impressive, it's worth noting that getting up close to them can be a bit challenging. Unlike some other waterfalls with dedicated trails, Alexander Falls is situated right off the parking lot, and there is no designated trail that leads directly to the falls. For this reason, Alexander Falls isn't really a stop for dogs.

View of Alexander Falls by Whistler from the parking lot

Seton Lake Lookout

If you don't mind driving a little further past Whistler towards Lillooet, don't miss the opportunity to make a quick stop at the Seton Lake Lookout. This rewarding hiking experience unveils awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding landscape, promising breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. It is one of our favourite stops on The Markus Project. We're advocates of short hikes with a fulfilling ending and the Seton Lake Lookout hike fits the bill perfectly. The trail presents a steep ascent, leading you to a lookout point that offers a panoramic spectacle of the road's hairpin turn, the shimmering Seton Lake and the majestic mountains that stretch into the distance.

Be Bear Aware

Last, but not least, it's important to be aware that bears inhabit this region and encounters can occur, especially when you're out exploring with your dog. During our time in Whistler, we had a few encounters with bears ourselves, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness. We never felt threatened at any time, but we mention all this to say that bears are definitely around the village, the trails and lakes.