Banff, Alberta
by John McKiernan
Staff Writer
If you’re planning to travel to Banff and the Canadian Rockies with a pet, you’ll want to have some ideas of where you can stay with it. When traveling with a pet, it’s best to imagine it as a mini version of you.
Like you, your pet has to swap its comfortable home for rented accommodations. It has to have identification and its own set of toiletries. And your pet, especially if it is a dog, will want to do all the activities that you are doing in and around the Canadian Rockies.
The only difference is your pet never has to pay. The fact is, the Canadian Rockies is not Disney World, it is literally “the great outdoors.” There is no better place to bring a pet than here. Many hotels will accept a pet with a forewarning phone call, but here are some Banff accommodations that are especially pet friendly.
The Juniper Hotel
Nestled at the base of Mount Norquay in Banff, the Juniper has recently had a major make over and now exceeds its excellent reputation. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed while on property. They must also be accustomed to traveling and being away from home, so as not to disrupt the stay of other guests.
Castle Mountain Chalets
Located right in the heart of Banff National Park, this stunning location is a great place to get away with the pets. Furry friends are welcomed with a special welcome treat and clean up bag upon arrival. Not all rooms are pet friendly, so call in advance. There is a charge of $25 per day per pet.
Hillside Bungalows
At Hillside, there are two cozy, self sufficient cabins only minutes away from the town centre. There are no restrictions on pets or size and the pet fee is just $10 per day. Pets are not allowed to be left unattended here.
Hidden Ridge Resort
As the name might unsubtly suggest, Hidden Ridge Resort is quite hidden away and secluded. It offers awesome views of Banff. You can take a stroll along one of the many hiking trails that start just outside your door. Each pet is provided with a pet bed, bowls, and special treats on arrival to the hotel. Not a bad set up for the furry flukesters.
Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets
At Douglas Fir, they know how hard it is to leave a loved one behind, but there are a limited number of pet-friendly condos available, so call ahead. There is special treatment for both dogs and their spoiling owners with a welcome package. Small to medium sized dogs are accepted (less than 40 pounds) and there should be no more than 2 dogs per condo.
Best Western Siding 29 Lodge
Located handily just off Banff Avenue, Best Western is welcoming to pets with no extra charge. The pets must never be left unattended in rooms though.