For many of us, our four-legged friends are more than just pets—they’re family. So, when it’s time for a getaway, bring them along to experience the best of Silver Star and the Greater Vernon area. After all, this is the Trails Capital of BC and a place where wagging tails will find happy trails.
With welcoming patios, dog-friendly trails (in summer and winter), and a variety of pet-friendly accommodations, the North Okanagan is the ultimate destination for you and your companion. Here’s how to plan the perfect pup-approved getaway to Silver Star.
Pet Hangs: Where to Go and What to Do with Your Dog
Silver Star and the surrounding Greater Vernon area provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor exploration and relaxation with your pet. During the summer months and special weekends in the winter, Silver Star Village fills with live music, an experience both you and your pup can enjoy. There’s nothing like wandering the lively village, tunes filling the air, with your dog trotting happily at your side. For a bit more adventure, why not take your dog on the Des Schumann Summit Express Gondola at SilverStar Mountain Resort? Dogs are welcome both up and down, making it easy to access the mountain trails during the summer months. What about in Winter? Dogs are welcome too! In the Village and all lower multi use and snow shoe trails are paw friendly. Hit the scenic paths together, breathing in the fresh alpine air and taking in breathtaking views along the way.
The Des Schumann Summit Express Gondola will take you to great views of the Monashee Mountain range.
Beyond Silver Star, Sovereign Lake Nordic Ski area has designated an area called The Zuma’s for dog ski zoomies.
Meanwhile, Davison Orchards (just a 30-minute drive away) offers a serene experience for both humans and their furry friends. Your sidekick is welcome on-leash around the village and at the Farmhouse Cafe, where you can stroll the orchard grounds, savouring the lush Okanagan scenery and friendly vibes. If you’re eager to explore even more trails in winter or summer, head to Predator Ridge, which boasts a vast network of on-leash trails perfect for getting in a healthy dose of nature.
Predator Ridge trails offer great view points the whole family can enjoy.
For a peaceful hiking experience, the Grey Canal Trail, especially the sections at Boss Creek and Coldstream Valley Estates, offers scenic views that both you and your dog will enjoy. Or, if your dog craves off-leash time, visit BX Ranch Dog Park, a spacious off-leash park along BX Creek where dogs can run freely, sniff, and socialize. When it’s time to cool off, bring your dog to the Dog Beach at Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, where pups can enjoy a splash in the lake and play along the sandy shore. Ellison Provincial Park is another fantastic spot for water-loving dogs, with a sandy beach that’s perfect for a summer day by the lake.
Dog-Friendly Dining: Best Pet-Friendly Patios
After a day of adventure, you and your pup can unwind on one of Silver Star’s many dog-friendly patios, where you can both soak up the mountain air and relax in the vibrant atmosphere. Start with The Bulldog Grand Cafe, a well-loved spot known for its relaxed ambiance, where your fur friend can lounge by your side while you enjoy local flavors. For another option right in the heart of Silver Star, the Red Antler patio offers a cozy setting where you can enjoy the buzz of the village with your doggo happily nearby.
If you’re a fan of locally crafted gin, whiskey, or liqueurs, head to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery. Here, leashed dogs are more than welcome to accompany you during a tasting, adding a touch of four-legged charm to your spirits journey. Tucked within a beautiful orchard, Cambium Cider also offers an idyllic setting to unwind in the summer. Picnic tables are scattered around the orchard, providing the perfect spot for a crisp cider with your on-leash dog enjoying the relaxed outdoor space with you.
Dog-Friendly Places to Stay
After a full day of exploring, it’s essential to have a cozy, pet-friendly place to call home for the night. Silver Star and Greater Vernon offer a variety of accommodations, each offering a welcoming retreat for you and your dog. Located right at Silver Star, The Bulldog Hotel makes an excellent choice, providing convenient, dog-friendly rooms with easy access to all the mountain has to offer. You might also consider Silver Star Stays, a collection of vacation rentals that include pet-friendly options, perfect for a home-away-from-home experience.
Cozy up with your pup in the Bulldog Hotel at Silver Star.
For a more upscale option, Predator Ridge Resort caters to dog owners, offering condo-style accommodations and cottages surrounded by greenery and trails, ideal for morning walks with your pet friend. And for those looking to add a bit of luxury to their trip, Sparkling Hill Resort provides pet-friendly rooms with stunning lake views, ensuring both you and your pup have a memorable and indulgent stay.
Check out this 3-Day itinerary from our friends at Tourism Vernon for more ideas.
With so many dog-friendly options in and around Silver Star, this is truly the perfect destination for you and your pet. From vibrant patios and scenic trails to lakefront beaches, mountains, and forests, there’s an adventure waiting for every member of the family—furry or not! So pack up, leash up, and get ready to explore the North Okanagan with your best friend in tow.
Tips for Being a Responsible and Respectful Pet Owner
- Always ensure adhere to local pet bylaws
- Obey all signage
- Keep dogs leashed at all times
- Pick up after your pet
- Domestic animals can distress wildlife. Keep your distance from wild animals.
- Remember: Not everyone is comfortable around your dog. Don’t let your dog approach people or other pets unless invited.
- Be sure to bring food and water for your dog. They get hungry and dehydrated too!
Photo credits: Lianne Viau, Kai Clemens (Predator Ridge)
