Dog-friendly Banff: Restaurants, trails, and activities

Banff isn’t just for outdoor enthusiasts; it’s a haven for pet parents who don’t want to leave their pup behind. Step into dog-friendly Banff with our guide to hiking trails, cozy cafes with stunning mountain views, dog parks, and the best dog-friendly restaurants in Banff. Thinking of house sitting? Make sure to note down our top tips for pet sitters in Banff!

Dog-friendly restaurants, Banff

Banff’s restaurants welcome pups with open paws, often providing water bowls, dog-friendly patios, and even special treats. Below, find 7 dog-friendly restaurants that you can enjoy with your four-legged travel buddy. 

Three Bears Brewery Restaurant

This local favourite brewpub has a year-round heated outdoor patio, perfect for chilly mountain days. Enjoy craft beers and signature pizzas, while your pup can join in on the fun as their menu features pup snacks!

Location: 205 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1A1

Tooloulous

Are you and your canine pal craving some comfort food? This gem offering Cajun-Creole and Canadian fusion dishes will hit the spot. Think crab cakes, Cajun calamari, and BBQ with a mountain twist. Leashed pups are welcome on the outdoor patio, so you can enjoy the food with your four-legged buddy by your side.

Location: 204 Caribou St, Banff, AB T1L 1A6

Bear Street Tavern

In search of dog-friendly patios in Banff? This beloved pub offers pizza, sandwiches, and cast-iron specialties. Enjoy a beer and some good ol’ pub food on the sunny courtyard patio with your pup. 

Location: 211 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1A1

Magpie & Stump Mexican Restaurant & Bar

A fun, festive Mexican cantina known for tacos, tequila, and great rooftop vibes. It's the perfect post-hike taco stop with scenic mountain views and a lively atmosphere. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the street-level patio, but unfortunately not on the rooftop.

Location: 203 Caribou St, Banff, AB T1L 1C1

PARK Distillery Restaurant & Bar

With house-distilled spirits, fun cocktails, and Banff-style dishes, you and your pup pal can kick back on the heated dog-friendly patio and enjoy some local cuisine.

Location: 219 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A7

The Maple Leaf Steak & Seafood

If you’re looking for a cozy yet slightly elevated dining experience with mountain views, this spot offering Alberta beef, seafood, and wine is the right place. Dogs are generally allowed on the street-side patio.

Location: 137 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1C8

Stock Food & Drink

Located at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, you and your four-legged friend are welcome on the outdoor patio, with great views and relaxed all-day eats.

Location: 405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1J4

Top tip for visiting dog-friendly restaurants in Banff

The Alberta health code doesn’t allow dogs inside any food handling areas. However, many restaurants have a heated dog-friendly patio for you and your furry bestie to relax on… so make sure to grab a seat with a mountain view!

Dog-friendly things to do in Downtown Banff 

From strolling through scenic streets to gazing at mountain views, there are plenty of things to do in Downtown Banff with your pooch. 

Scenic walks around the Bow River & Bow Falls

One of the main local and tourist attractions in Downtown Banff is to take a walk with your pooch along the Bow River pathways, taking in mountain views and the Bow Falls. 

Just south of the town of Banff, it’s perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog. Your pup’ll love the easy access to water and you can take in the breathtaking local scenery. Please note that your dog must be kept on a leash and away from wildlife.

Location: Bow Falls, Banff, AB T1L 1B4

Banff Park Museum grounds

Enjoy the vibrant garden and the historic building exterior of the oldest natural history museum in Western Canada. You can walk your curious canine around the outside area, but unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed inside. 

Cost: $5 museum entry

Date and time: Usually open Thursday to Monday: 9:30 am to 5 pm, however it’s closed during the winter.

Location: 91 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1K2

Dog-friendly shopping & cafés

One of the things that makes Banff dog-friendly is just how walkable the town is. There are plenty of shops to peer into and patios to enjoy a drink and some local cuisine with your furball.

Banff Townsite Greenways

Pet-friendly Banff has a network of pathways for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the town, which are perfect for leashed dog walks. These routes often intersect with parks or picnic spots, and local dog owners use these trails to access open fields or greener areas.

Location: Banff, Improvement District No. 9, AB

Surprise Corner & Hoodoos Viewpoint

These iconic photo spots are just a short walk or drive away from the town centre, offering classic views of Banff. Make sure to be careful of roads and wildlife, and always keep your pup on a leash.

Locations: 

• Surprise Corner, Buffalo St, Banff, AB T1L 1K2
• Hoodoos Viewpoint, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2

Dog-friendly hikes in Banff

Now for the moment you’ve been waiting for… I mean c’mon, it wouldn’t be a dog-friendly guide to Banff without hiking trail recommendations. 

Tunnel Mountain Trail

One of the most popular dog-friendly hikes in Banff is the Tunnel Mountain Trail. Close to Downtown Banff, locals often bring their pups here for exercise (and of course, the scenic payoff). With a 4.8 km return, enjoy great views over Banff Town and its surrounding peaks.

Location: Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1H5

Marsh Loop Trail

Another easy trail close to town, this 3.4km loop is near Cave and Basin Historic Site. It’s a flat boardwalk through marshland, so is perfect for a gentle walk with your canine companion.

Location: 161 Cave Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1K2

Creekside Trail

This short, sheltered 2.1km loop offers wooded paths and creekside views, making this relaxing and scenic trail ideal for you and your pooch.

Location: Fenland Trailhead on Mt Norquay Rd, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2

Johnston Canyon Trail

Among the Canadian Rockies, Banff’s most iconic hike has stunning views and plenty of photo ops for you and your pup. With the option to hike 2.4km to the Lower Falls or follow a longer route to Upper Falls or Ink Pots, you and your leashed doggo will get the chance to walk through a dramatic canyon with waterfalls and cliff-side catwalks.

Location: Off the Bow Valley Parkway, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2

Cascade Ponds Loop

About a 15-minute drive from Banff Town is one of the easiest dog-friendly trails in Banff. Perfect for curious canines who like water and smells, Cascade Ponds Loop is just 1.5km of easy boardwalks with water views and picnic spots.

Location: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr, Improvement District No. 9, AB

Johnson Lake Loop

This 2.8km flat trail loop will take you around the iconic Johnson Lake, perfect if your playful pup likes a splash in water. In summer, make sure to bring a picnic and take a break with your furry hiking buddy.

Location: Johnson Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1W 2W2

Two Jack Lake Trail

Complete this trail in 3.2km with lake views and gentle terrain. A short drive from Downtown Banff, this easy hike has picturesque views and shaded shoreline spots.

Location: Near Lake Minnewanka: Two Jack Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1W 2W2

Lake Agnes Teahouse Trail (Upper Lake Louise)

One of the most scenic hikes near Banff! This classic mountain trail is a 6.8km return with memorable lake views and a teahouse stop (sadly dogs aren’t allowed inside the teahouse). Just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

Location: Lake Agnes, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0

Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

This pet-friendly 2.8km walk runs along the stunning turquoise lake. Just over a half-hour drive from Banff Town, the flat and scenic route is perfect if you want a gentler walk without missing out on the iconic mountain experience.

Location: Lake Louise, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0

Top tip for planning a dog-friendly hike in Banff

Your pup pal is allowed on most trails in Banff National Park but must be kept on leash and under control at all times. Please also note, as most of these trails are in the National Park, there’s an entry fee.

Dog-friendly attractions in Banff, Canada

Banff is home to Canada’s first national park, and most of the hikes and scenic points you’ll want to visit with your furry friends will be there. Our list of top activities in Banff National Park will make sure you get the most out of this scenic wonderland.

Drive around the National Park

Scenic drives around Banff National Park provide panoramic spots perfect for stretching two or four sets of legs and seeing glaciers, rivers, forests, and mountains. Make sure to pull over only at designated spots and never leave your dog in an unattended vehicle.

Location: Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L, Canada

Explore Vermilion Lakes

Close to the town of Banff in the Bow Valley, this peaceful lakeside area is a favourite for dog walks and photography, where you and your pup can immerse yourselves in nature. 

Location: Vermilion Lakes, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1C3

Johnson Lake & Two Jack Lake

These lakefront areas are ideal for walks, picnics, and lakeside trail exploring, and leashed dogs often enjoy a splash in calmer waters on a warm day. 

Locations: 

• Johnson Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1W 2W2
• Two Jack Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1W 2W2

Lake Minnewanka Lakeshore

This massive glacial lake offers stunning views, picnic spots, and lakeside walking paths with your dog. You can explore the shoreline trails together or picnic overlooking the water and alpine views.

Location: Lake Minnewanka, Improvement District No. 9, AB

Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake is one of the most iconic and striking viewpoints in Banff National Park. With turquoise lakes, forests, and mountains, it welcomes dogs on leash at the main viewing areas and trails.

Location: Peyto Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada

Paddleboarding, kayaking & canoeing

Looking for things to do in Banff National Park that isn’t hiking? Take your pup on a water adventure. Bring a dog-approved life jacket and explore calmer waters like Johnson Lake or Vermilion Lakes by canoe, kayak, or SUP, perfect for a hot summer's day! If you’re pet sitting, always make sure any water activities are pet parent-approved. 

Cost: Rentals starting at $49 per hour

Date and time: May - October

Top tip for planning a day of dog-friendly attractions in Banff

To enjoy these breathtaking views, your pup must be kept on a leash at all times and you’ll need to pay $12.25 for a day pass.

Dog parks in Banff

Looking for more pet-friendly spots in Banff? A Banff dog park might just be what you and your pup need. The town has two designated dog parks where your pooch can stretch their legs and play off-leash. 

Sundance Park Dog Park (recreation grounds)

Located at the Sundance Park, this Banff off-leash dog park allows your pup to live their best life doing what dogs do best: running around and making friends.

Date and time: The park closes each spring for a “dry‑out” period so the turf can recover from snowmelt, so make sure to check local updates before visiting.

Location: 191 Sundance Rd, Banff, AB T0L, Canada

Industrial District Dog Park

In Banff’s Industrial District, a second off‑leash area is a popular spot in the winter months when the ground is frozen and covered in snow.

Date and time: Because of hazards from digging and thawing ground debris, this park only opens when the ground is frozen, so make sure to check the current status before heading out.

Location: Hawk Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1C6

Top tip for visiting dog parks in Banff

Local authorities ask for all dogs to be licensed with up‑to‑date vaccinations before entering the parks.

Dog-friendly cafes in Banff

You’re not short on dog-friendly cafes in Banff, with cozy patios, steaming hot coffee, and a mountain atmosphere.  Don’t miss these dog-friendly places in Banff where your dog will never get FOMO.

Wild Flour Bakery

A local favourite for freshly baked pastries, breads, and coffee, perfect to grab on morning walkies or a casual lunch with your dog at an outdoor table.

Location: 211 Bear St #101, Banff, AB T1L 1B8

Good Earth Coffeehouse

This classic coffeehouse has excellent coffee, breakfast bites, and friendly pet-loving vibes. The outdoor seating makes it a great pup‑friendly spot to refuel after a walk.

Location: 333 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B1, Canada

Mountain Folk Coffee Co.

This charming café with artisan espresso drinks and pastries is located right in the heart of downtown and welcomes pups on their outdoor seating area.

Location: 117 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1C1, Canada

Evelyn's Coffee Bar

A classic Banff coffee bar and go‑to morning stop with breakfast sandwiches, espresso, and pastries. A great place to enjoy outdoor seating after a downtown stroll.

Location: 215 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A4, Canada

Sudden Sally

Looking for day-to-night dog-friendly places in Banff? This cafe-bar offers everything from lunch bowls to cocktails. Dogs are welcome on the hotel’s outdoor patio, and water bowls are often provided.

Location: 600 Banff Ave #2000, Banff, AB T1L 1H8, Canada

Downtown Sally

A sister location to Sudden Sally, this local cool spot serves specialty drinks and bites. Enjoy a coffee and some baked goods with your pup on their outdoor seating area. 

Location: 229 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1H8, Canada

Whitebark Cafe

This beloved local café serves up quality coffee and brunch. Take in the scenery on their mountain view patio after a mooch with your pooch around town. 

Location: 401 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A9, Canada

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Banff

• Make use of local dog parks. With all the hiking trails you could ever need on your doorstep, sometimes pups just want to run around without a leash and roll in some grass. Treat your dog every now and then to one of the local off-leash dog parks, then make sure to treat yourself to a coffee with a mountain view afterwards.
• Be mindful of crowds and wildlife. Banff can get extremely busy, especially in summer. Crowded spots like Banff Avenue, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and popular viewpoints may be overwhelming for some dogs. Early mornings or off-season are often more enjoyable for both pets and people.
• Organise pet care for your vacation. Vets agree that dogs are happiest staying at home and sticking to their routine in a familiar environment. This is where a pet sitter comes in. Click below to find out how to connect with loving, in-home pet sitters in Banff.

Tips for pet sitters

• Embrace the local lifestyle. Many Banff residents are active, outdoorsy dog owners, which means daily walks often include scenic river pathways and neighbourhood strolls. Ask the pet parent their pup’s favourite spots and let your new pooch pal lead the way!
• Wise up on wildlife safety. If you're on a trip to Banff and not a local to the Canadian Rockies, you might want to read up on some wildlife safety tips, including conservation and bear safety. You can find out more information here.
• Explore Banff through house sitting. If you love pets and dream of waking up to mountain views, house sitting in Banff allows you to slow down and enjoy the area’s everyday beauty while caring for a furry friend.  Click below to find out how to get started on your house-sitting adventure.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Banff

Thinking about house sitting near Banff, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• Dog-friendly Canmore: Things to do in Canmore with a dog
• Dog-friendly Calgary: Things to do in Calgary with a dog
• Dog-friendly Kelowna: Things to do in Kelowna with a dog
• Dog-friendly Vernon: Things to do in Vernon with a dog
• Dog-friendly Edmonton: Things to do in Edmonton with a dog