Overview
Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park is located in Thunder Bay, Ontario. This park features a short nature trail in an urban setting, situated near local hotels and an industrial yard.
While reviews are mixed regarding its classification as an off-leash dog park, some visitors report letting their dogs run off leash, while others note it isn’t a fully fenced area and caution against expecting a traditional off-leash, enclosed dog park experience.
The trail is primarily red dirt, bordered by grass and bush, with mowed edges and signs indicating the presence of foxtails. The area isn’t fenced, but there’s a separate, fenced bike trail adjacent to the main walking path.
Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park is best suited for dog owners seeking a quick walk in a natural environment and is accessible for those staying nearby.
Amenities include ample parking at the entrance and available trash and recycling bins, though there’s no poo bag dispenser on site.
The park provides a quiet, green space for dog walking in Thunder Bay, particularly for those looking for outdoor recreation close to the city center.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
History of Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park
Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park in Thunder Bay, Ontario, was established to provide residents and visitors with accessible green space for dog walking and outdoor recreation within the city.
Developed on land adjacent to an industrial area and near several hotels, the park was designed as a natural trail, emphasizing preservation of local flora and wildlife while accommodating the needs of dog owners.
Managed by the city or a local parks authority, the area has evolved to balance urban development with community demand for green spaces.
Over time, the park’s amenities—such as mowed trail edges, dedicated parking, and waste disposal facilities—have been added to support responsible use.
While the park remains unfenced, reflecting its origins as a multi-use nature trail, it continues to serve as a valued spot for both locals and travelers seeking a quiet, natural setting for dog walking in Thunder Bay.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Dog Park Rules in Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park
Before you head out for a visit, it’s important to know and follow the dog park rules to keep everyone safe and happy. Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park expects you to supervise your dog at all times and maintain control, whether by voice or leash.
All dogs must have up-to-date licenses, be healthy, and vaccinated—especially for rabies. Aggressive dogs, females in heat, and puppies under four months aren’t allowed for everyone’s protection.
The park spans approximately 3.5 acres, giving dogs plenty of room to run and explore off-leash.
Keep these essentials in mind:
- Always leash your dog when entering and leaving the park, and never let them roam unattended.
- Bring waste bags and pick up after your dog right away, using the trash or recycling bins provided.
- Limit the number of dogs you handle to two or three, and don’t bring food, glass containers, or toys.
Following these rules helps make the park clean, safe, and enjoyable for all.
What to Expect at Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park
When you arrive at Hillyard Lands Off-leash Dog Park in Thunder Bay, you’ll find a quiet retreat set amid an area that otherwise lacks green space. The park is fundamentally a short nature trail, with a red dirt path lined by grass and bushes, offering a pleasant escape for both you and your dog. Birdsong and wildflowers add to the natural beauty, making the walk feel unexpectedly scenic.
The park is especially convenient for travelers, located just a short distance from local hotels. Adam Wolske notes that it’s “900 meters away from the Holiday Inn express in Thunder Bay. Great place to exercise your dog.” There’s ample parking at the entrance, along with trash and recycling bins to help keep the area tidy.
While the atmosphere is generally peaceful, the park isn’t fenced, and there’s an industrial yard near one end, so some visitors choose to keep their dogs on long lines. “Trail is red dirt with grass and some bush surrounding, edges are mowed. Kept my dog on a long line due to tall grass at edges, signs indicate there are foxtails,” shares Tessa Hall.
She also highlights how the park is “well maintained and felt safe,” though she recommends bringing your own waste bags since there’s no dispenser on site.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dog walk or a spot to let your pet run off leash for a bit—keeping in mind the lack of fencing—Hillyard Lands offers a quiet, natural break in the city. As Kathleen Oakey puts it, it’s a “nice quiet little space to let your dog run off leash. Can walk to the end and back in about 20 min.”
