Pet-Friendly Lakeside Retreats to Cool Down At This Summer 

With the summer season already on the horizon, if you’re thinking of a cooling vacation away with your dog, a lakeside escape will be the perfect tonic. Whether you prefer mountain retreats, shoreline trails, or simply wide-open spaces for you both to explore, North America has a bounty of dog-friendly destinations to choose from.  

Nevertheless, if you’re on the hunt for some inspiration, here are our top five pet-friendly lakeside retreats that need to be seen to be believed this summer. 

Unleash A Summertime Getaway to the Shores of Lake George, New York 

For those of you looking to escape the heat of the city this summer, our first top lakeside destination will see you and your pet exploring Lake George, New York, in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Here, the sparkling lake waters meet with forested peaks, whose endless wooded walks and sandy stretches of beach mean you and your dog can roam freely this summer. 

Aside from the natural beauty, you and your four-legged friend can also dine out together in style at the dog-friendly Lake George Beach Club, whose open-air patio seating overlooks the water. With regular live entertainment, sunset views, followed by a lakeside stroll around Lake George Village, there are few better places to enjoy those perfect long summer evenings together. 

Treat yourself to a memorable trip to Lake George on a wonderful lakeside adventure by booking your stay at the dog-friendly Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington nearby in Rutland, Vermont. 

Paddle Across the Crystal-Clear Waters of Big Bear Lake in California 

Our next top destination on our spectacular shortlist of refreshing lakeside destinations for you both to enjoy sees us heading to the alpine escape of Big Bear Lake in California. Surrounded by pine forests, the crisp breeze and the turquoise waters of Big Bear Lake make for an idyllic break from your normal routine, replaced by the chance to fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors. 

While you’re here, we highly recommend meeting with the excellent pet-loving team at Getboards, where you can hire a paddleboard or kayak to head out on the water together. Then, after a few hours out on Big Bear Lake, be sure to try Dank Donuts’ inventive pastries and pet-friendly treats to cap off each amazing day in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains. 

Relax in style by enjoying quality time with your dog on the water, before getting a great night’s sleep every night at the pet-friendly Chateau Big Bear Boutique Hotel, BW Signature Collection in California. 

An Open-Water Breakaway Awaits at Flathead Lake, Montana 

We head to Flathead Lake in Montana next for another top mountainside lakeside retreat where you can beat the heat this summer with your favorite pal. Separating the Mission and Salish Mountains, Flathead Lake’s peaceful marinas and untouched shorelines mean you and your furry friend can spend some quality time together at one of Montana’s most tranquil spots. 

Whether you enjoy tree-lined hikes or a cooling dip to escape the rising temperatures of the summer, you can’t go wrong with a week or two away to Flathead Lake. That being said, our top tip for dog-friendly excursions here includes joining the superb crew at Flathead Lake Boat Tours, who will take you out on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see the sights of Wild Horse Island.  

Head out to Flathead Lake, Montana, for a scenic lake getaway you’ll never forget, and both get a restful night’s sleep every night staying at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites. 

Make Cool Summer Memories Together at Elk Lake, Michigan 

Next our incredible shortlist of stunning lakeside destinations will see you and your dog heading to the serene Elk Lake in Michigan this summer. Famed for its superb scenic vistas and dog-friendly walking trails, while you’re here, we certainly recommend making an excursion to visit the Mission Point Lighthouse for an afternoon of exploring together. 

Another fantastic excursion you can both enjoy involves joining up with the dog-loving craft distillers at Elk Rapids’ very own Ethanology Distillation. Here, you can meet the craftspeople behind the spirits and discover how their locally sourced ingredients help to create tasty beverages that capture the character of northern Michigan. 

Spend time with your dog to discover the natural beauty of Elk Lake, Michigan, before relaxing every night together at the Best Western Plus Traverse City. 

Wander the Dog-Friendly Waterfront Trails at Lake Simcoe, Ontario 

We head north of the border to the exquisite Lake Simcoe in Ontario, Canada, on our quest to find the best lakeside retreats where you and your dog can chill out this summer. Here you can both wander along the gently lapping shorelines of Lake Simcoe, relishing in the sights and sounds of rural Ontario. 

For those of you who love pet-friendly outings, we highly recommend you explore the sensational 17km of recreational trails around Ardagh Bluffs on the outskirts of Barrie. Furthermore, be sure to also head over to Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery, which offers frequent flower arranging workshops, pumpkin painting sessions, and even their very own Pet Palooza Show to keep you both entertained this summer. 

Indulge in an unforgettable scenic getaway at Lake Simcoe, Ontario, with your favorite four-legged friend, and enjoy your stay at the Best Western Plus Barrie for a great night’s sleep every night.