Visiting with dogs
Glacier National Park
Effective Nov 15, 2024 - May 31, 2025, dogs (and pets) are not permitted in the backcountry of Glacier National Park. Properly identified CARDA and SAR dogs are allowed during training and/or rescue operations.
If you plan to visit Mount Revelstoke or Glacier National Park with your dog, plan ahead and don’t forget your leash! See below for areas where dogs are and are not allowed.
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Dog-friendly areas
Dogs are welcome on many trails in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks, but must be on leash at all times.
While dogs are allowed in most areas, some permanent dog restrictions exist, and temporary restrictions may be present in certain areas due to wildlife activity. Before your visit, check trail conditions and important bulletins to ensure you have the latest information.
Mount Revelstoke National Park
Glacier National Park
Need an off-leash area?
Find trails in the community of Revelstoke.Areas dogs are not allowed
Dog restriction during winter season - Glacier National Park
Effective Nov 15, 2024 through May 31, 2025, dogs (and pets) are not permitted in the backcountry of Glacier National Park. Winter backcountry includes any area beyond parking lots along the Trans-Canada Highway.Properly identified CARDA and SAR dogs are exempted from this prohibition when involved in training and/or rescue operations.
It is difficult to maintain a dog on leash while ski touring or snowboarding, and most backcountry areas in Glacier National Park are subject to avalanche hazard from late fall through spring. It is not only illegal to have dogs off leash in the park, in avalanche terrain, it can also pose additional risk to the dog and people in the area as the dog may trigger or get caught in an avalanche.
Please find alternatives for your dogs while using backcountry areas in Glacier National Park during this period.
Mount Revelstoke Summit Area - Mount Revelstoke National Park
For the safety of visitors, pets, and wildlife, dogs are not allowed above Columbia Viewpoint (12 km) on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway, which includes the summit area and backcountry of Mount Revelstoke National Park. Dogs are also not permitted in vehicles or on trails beyond this point. This year-round dog restriction has been introduced due to an increase in encounters between bears and off-leash dogs.
The dog restriction encompasses the entire summit area (all trails) beyond the Columbia Viewpoint and the backcountry of Mount Revelstoke National Park including:
- The upper Lindmark Trail beyond the junction that leads to the Meadows in the Sky Parkway (below Eagle Pass Viewpoint).
- The Summit Trail beyond the fifth crossing of the Meadows in the Sky Parkway (near Columbia Viewpoint)
Please note: Hikers can connect the lower Lindmark and Summit trails along the Meadows in the Sky Parkway above the Columbia Viewpoint.
Balu Pass Trail - Glacier National Park
Dogs are not allowed on the Balu Pass Trail or in the Connaught Creek drainage to protect the watershed as a potable water source for Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park.
Frontcountry camping
Are you bringing your furry family member camping? Dogs are welcome in Snowforest, Illecillewaet, and Loop Brook campgrounds, however, they must be on a leash at all times. Please do not leave your pets unattended, pick up after your pets, and ensure that all pet food is stored in your vehicle or a bear-proof locker.
Please keep dogs on a leash and under control at all times.
If you bring your dog to a national park, you must:
- Ensure your dog is on a leash and under control at all times.
- Pick up and dispose of your dog's waste in a garbage bin.
- Only bring your dog on trails where they are allowed.
More tips for visiting a national park with your dog:
- Consider leaving your dog at home if you plan to hike or camp in the backcountry.
- Consider using a licenced dog-boarding or dog-walking service.
- Ensure your dog’s safety; select suitable activities and terrain that align with you and your dog’s abilities. See dog-friendly trails in Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks.
- Ensure you and your dog are prepared for extreme weather conditions (very cold temperatures, exposure, etc.) as the weather is unpredictable in the mountains.
Penalties
Visitor and wildlife safety is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada. Dogs, like wolves and coyotes, cause stress for wildlife as they may be seen as a threat. Dogs can also trigger aggressive behaviour from wildlife such as grizzly bears. Penalties for non-compliance include a maximum fine of $25,000 and/or possible ban from national parks.
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