Heart Lake & Stocking Lake Loops (off-leash trails)
Heart Lake & Stocking Lake Loops is an off-leash trail network in Ladysmith, running about 8.5 km along the forested shores of both Heart Lake and Stocking Lake. It’s one of seven designated off-leash areas maintained by the Town of Ladysmith, and one of several off-leash trails and hikes featured in our directory. The route connects into the wider trail system that includes Davis Road Park and the Holland Creek Trail.
Off-Leash Trail & Environment
Dogs are welcome off-leash throughout the network, provided they remain under voice control. The trail winds through regrown second-growth forest — much of the surrounding area was logged starting in the 1930s, and today’s forest cover is the result of decades of natural regrowth since. Along the way, hikers get sweeping views over Ladysmith, out toward the Gulf Islands, and on a clear day, all the way to Mount Baker.
Stocking Lake itself isn’t just scenic — it was dammed in the late 1960s and continues to serve as part of the drinking water supply for Ladysmith and the Cowichan Valley, so it’s important that you keep dogs (and yourself) out of any restricted or posted areas near the water intake.
Trail Layout
The route at the Heart Lake & Stocking Lake Loops is a mix of moderate climbs and lakeside sections, with a bit of everything: forested switchbacks, open viewpoints, and stretches that hug the shoreline of both lakes. Expect some steeper sections, particularly near the start, so budget extra time if you’re hiking with a dog that needs a slower pace. Be sure to bring along water for your dog (and yourself!) as well as poop bags as you won’t find any at the trail.
Both lakes offer decent swimming spots for dogs looking to cool off mid-hike, especially in the warmer months.
Parking & Getting There
There’s a trail access point with a small parking lot — about 10 spaces — at the corner of Davis Road and Battie Drive. Given the limited capacity, it’s worth arriving early on weekends or during peak summer months, since the lot can fill up quickly on nice days.
This access point also connects to Davis Road Park, so if the small lot is full, it’s worth checking whether nearby street parking near the park is available as a backup.
Good to Know Before You Go
Distance: Roughly 8.5 km for this connector route between Heart Lake and Stocking Lake.
Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep sections — plan for a longer outing if your dog needs frequent breaks.
Water access: Both lakes offer swimming opportunities for dogs.
Parking: Limited to about 10 spaces at Davis Road and Battie Drive — arrive early on busy days.
Drinking water source: Stocking Lake supplies drinking water to the region, so keep dogs away from any posted restricted areas. You will need to bring your own drinking water for both you and your dog when you hike these trails.
Whether you’re after a full afternoon hike or just a scenic stretch of the legs with lake views, this loop is one of Ladysmith’s best options for off-leash hiking. Before you go, it’s worth reviewing our dog park etiquette guide, especially around recall and trail-sharing with other hikers and dogs.
Have you hiked the Heart Lake & Stocking Lake Loops with your dog? We’d love to hear how it went — drop a review below and let other dog owners know what to expect, whether it’s the best time of year to visit, how busy the parking gets, or any other tips worth sharing. If you have pictures of the hike that you would love to share we would love to include them here!
References
AllTrails – Stocking Lake Loop
AllTrails – Heart Lake
Walk BC – Stocking Lake Trail
Vancouver Island View – Off-Leash Dog Parks Mid-Vancouver Island
