Dogs (with their owners) are welcome in our Conservation Areas. Taking your dog for a walk is a great reason to get outdoors and enjoy nature. We would like to offer a few reminders when enjoying the trails with your four-legged friends.

All dogs must be kept on a leash and be in the care, control and custody of its owner at all times. Remember, our trails are natural areas with native wildlife that may be unfamiliar to your dog.

You might own the friendliest dog there is, but other trail walkers and cyclists may be afraid of, or uncomfortable around dogs. Keeping your dog on leash shows consideration and ensures the safety of all our trail users.

Finally, pet owners are asked to “stoop and scoop” after their dogs.

The Rainbow Lake Loop trail located at the Hersey Lake Conservation Area is designated as an off-leash area. Park users may exercise their pets without the constraint of a leash along this trail and at the dog beach located off the Hersey Lake Promenade trail. Off-leash areas are clearly marked with signage.