September 23, 2025
There’s something about the early morning quiet on a forest trail—the kind of quiet that fills you up instead of emptying you out. Your backpack straps snug on your shoulders, your dog trotting ahead, tail wagging at every new scent, and the trail winding out before you like a promise. This is how we’ve come to know Eastern Canada: not just through maps or guidebooks, but by walking it, one muddy bootstep (and pawprint) at a time.
Eastern Canada is full of rugged coastlines, deep woods, and peaceful lakes, all waiting to be explored—and the best part? A lot of these trails welcome your four-legged hiking buddy. Whether we’re trekking coastal cliffs in New Brunswick or chasing autumn leaves in Quebec’s forests, our trusty backpack has been with us every step of the way, carrying the essentials that keep our hikes smooth.
In this post, I’ll share some of our favorite pet-friendly trails in Eastern Canada, along with a few tips on how to pack smart and hike happy—whether you’re chasing summits, waterfalls, or simply a little peace and quiet.
Eastern Canada might not always steal the spotlight in hiking circles, but for those of us who’ve wandered its trails, it feels like one of the country’s best-kept secrets. From the rugged cliffs of New Brunswick to the deep, mossy forests of Nova Scotia and the peaceful lakes of Quebec, there’s a little something here for every kind of adventurer—and their four-legged sidekicks.
What surprised us most on our first trips out east was just how many trails welcome dogs. While some national parks have restrictions, plenty of provincial parks, nature reserves, and community trails happily welcome your pup—as long as they’re leashed and you follow the rules. There’s a growing recognition here that outdoor adventures are better shared, paws and all.
Of course, exploring these wild places with our pets comes with a bit of responsibility. We always follow the Leave No Trace principles: staying on marked paths, picking up after our dogs, and respecting wildlife from a safe distance. Our Wandering Wolf backpack helps with that—stashing extra waste bags, treats, and plenty of water to keep everyone happy along the way.
Over the years, we’ve been lucky enough to hike some incredible trails across Eastern Canada—each with its own vibe, views, and pet-friendly perks. Here are a few that have stuck with us:
Fundy’s rugged coastline feels like a postcard you can walk through. There are waterfalls hidden in the woods, rocky beaches at low tide, and peaceful campsites where your pup is welcome on a leash. Don’t miss the Dickson Falls Trail—a short, lush loop perfect for stretching your legs after a long drive.
If you love dramatic ocean cliffs and wide-open skies, this one’s for you. The Skyline Trail is a must-hike at sunset, though watch out for moose along the way. The wind at the top will make you (and your dog’s ears) feel alive in the best way.
Dense forests, winding trails, and pristine lakes perfect for a picnic break. We love the Laurentian Trail network—challenging enough to keep it interesting, but peaceful enough to hear the birds and your pup’s happy panting.
Close to Ottawa but still wild enough to escape the city buzz. In the fall, the sugar maples explode in fiery colors. King Mountain Trail is a short but scenic option, though there are plenty of longer loops if you’ve got the energy.
An underrated gem. The peaceful 3 km trail winds through hardwood forest to a stunning 16-metre waterfall. Picnic tables along the way make it the perfect stop for a snack break with your pup. Open from May to October.
A relaxing spot for riverside camping and short woodland strolls. This one’s great for dogs that like to paddle and play in the water, or just chill by the campfire after a mellow hike.
A backcountry gem for hikers and canoe trippers. It’s remote, wild, and quiet—just you, your pack, and the old-growth pines. If your dog loves the wilderness as much as you do, this place is magic.
One of our favorites for dramatic scenery. The Lion’s Head Lookout Trail winds through forests and ancient potholes before opening up to jaw-dropping escarpment cliffs. There’s a short lookout loop (~7 km) or a full-day 17 km adventure. Just be sure to keep your dog leashed, as some cliffside sections can be tricky. Parking reservations are required, and there are nearby campgrounds that welcome pups.
Let’s be honest—packing smart can make or break a day on the trail. Our backpack has become less of a gear haul and more of a lifeline on hikes like these.
What we always carry:
A few things we’ve learned the hard way—and now pass along to fellow trail lovers:
At the end of the day, it’s not just about the cliffs or waterfalls—it’s about those quiet, shared moments on the trail. Watching your dog sniff the breeze on a lookout. Sitting by a lake with no sounds but your breathing and the rustling trees.
Eastern Canada’s trails give us a chance to unplug and reconnect—with nature, with our pets, and with the quiet parts of ourselves we sometimes forget.
So grab your pack, leash up your pup, and hit the trail. There’s a whole wild world waiting out there.
Wandering Wolf
Made for the mountains, Built for the bond.
