Parks Canada has posted a notice for the Wickaninnish Beach area of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve temporarily banning dogs from the beach.
This temporary prohibition of having dogs on the beach stems from an increase in incidents with wolves in the area. Wickaninnish Beach is located just south of the iconic Long Beach near Tofino.
The prohibition is in effect beginning Wednesday, February 11th.
According to the notice, dogs are currently not permitted on Wickaninnish Beach, from Wickaninnish Beach Access E to Sandhill Creek.
Parks Canada says this measure is being taken to protect wildlife and offer a positive visitor experience.
Violators of this prohibition can be charged under the Canada National Parks Act with the maximum penalty being $25,000.
The area marked with yellow indicates the active dog prohibition area. Furthermore, the Wickaninnish dunes in the area marked with red are closed to all visitors and have been since October 2025.
In addition to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve being a habitat to wolves, it also provides sensitive habitat for shorebirds and other wildlife.
According to Parks Canada, dogs often cause stress for wolves and other wildlife and can trigger aggressive behaviour. Dog owners are responsible for knowing and following active restrictions.
The only exceptions to the current dog prohibition are certified service animals.
Those who see a dog in this area are asked to help protect local wildlife by alerting Parks Canada at (250) 726-3604.
