Summer Adventures with Your Pup—Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Dog’s Paw Pads)

Cora Lake

Summer in the PNW is pure magic—sunshine, cool breezes off the water, and all the dogs finally getting the zoomies out. But before you toss your pup in the car and head out on an adventure, let’s talk about real-life summer safety, local water spots, and what to do when it’s 90+ degrees and your dog’s giving you that look from the couch.

Travel Smart: Summer Dog Edition

Traveling with your dog can be amazing… or a chaotic mess. A little prep goes a long way. Here’s what I always pack for day trips or overnights:

• WATER – lways bring more than you think you’ll need. I keep a gallon jug in the car, plus a collapsible bowl and a spray bottle for misting!

• First aid kit – You don’t need to be a vet, but know how to flush a wound, remove a tick, and treat a bee sting.

• Shade and rest – Plan breaks and scout ahead for shady spots. No one wants a grumpy, overheated co-pilot. (And for white dogs, don’t forget sunscreen—baby sunscreen works in a pinch.)

• BONUS: Cooling gear – A cooling vest or bandana can make all the difference. If you don’t have any gear, wetting their belly and feet helps more than soaking their back.

Things to Avoid (Because They’re Gross, Dangerous, or Both)

Let’s just be honest—some stuff looks fun in the moment but ends with a vet visit or a flea infestation. Avoid:

• Stagnant water – Think mossy ponds or algae-filled lakes. These are breeding grounds for bacteria like Lepto and parasites like Giardia. If the water’s not moving, your dog shouldn’t be swimming. I’ve seen so many posts lately about dogs getting sick from swimming—Lepto, Giardia, algae. Do your research before you pick a swim spot.

• Hot pavement – If you can’t hold your palm to the asphalt for 7 seconds, your dog shouldn’t walk on it. Stick to grassy areas. Booties can help, but they can also trap heat—use them wisely.

• Overdoing it – Especially with older dogs or flat-faced breeds (bulldogs, pugs). Heatstroke doesn’t mess around. Watch for heavy panting, glazed eyes, excessive drooling or disorientation—and don’t push them to “keep up.” Slow and steady will get you there safer than racing up the mountain.

Great Local Water (and Shaded) Spots Within 30–60 Min of Tacoma

If your dog loves water—or just needs a new place to sniff—here are some favorite places to dip paws, chase sticks, or escape the heat without going too far from home.

• Dash Point State Park – Some beach areas are dog-friendly, especially if you stick to the less crowded side. Bring towels and accept now that there will be sand in every crevice of your car.

• Flaming Geyser State Park – A river-facing park that’s usually less chaotic than some others. Head to the far end of the parking lot and take the short trail down to the river—it’s a mellow walk in and out with space to wade or hang out.

• Steilacoom Lake Park – Not an official off-leash swim spot, but it’s doable early in the morning or on low-traffic days. Check posted signs for algae warnings before letting your pup take a dip—those blooms can be toxic.

• Chambers Creek Canyon Trail – A shady hike with creek access along the way. It’s leashed, but solid for pups who love a mix of exploring and splashing.

• Swan Creek – Multiple access points available – There’s river access and forest trails—a solid nature escape right in town. Heads up: the Pioneer Way parking lot can attract sketchy activity. Lock your car and leave valuables at home. That said, it’s a favorite for water-loving trail dogs

• Clark’s Creek Park – Not a water destination, but still a favorite for shaded walking. There’s an off-leash spot tucked in the middle, though it’s definitely not the main draw. Great for a peaceful loop, a little training session, or just a low-key outing.

A Little Further Out (And More Physical)

These next few require more drive time and effort but are totally worth it for the adventurous dogs (and humans) who don’t mind breaking a sweat:

• Bertha Mae Lake & Cora Lake Hikes – Both trails are up the same logging road that leads to High Rock Lookout. If you stop at Big Creek Campground, there’s a cool old wooden trail map that’s honestly worth checking out. These hikes are steep and come with serious elevation gain—Cora is shorter and a bit more manageable than Bertha, but both will absolutely work your legs and lungs. Not for the faint of heart (or heat-intolerant pups). Go early before it gets too hot, bring lots of water, and if you’ve got the time to hang out—pack some floaties and enjoy the lake once you get there.

• Mineral Lake – A scenic drive leads to a tucked-away lakeside spot. It’s quiet and peaceful—perfect for dogs who prefer solitude over chaos.

• Alder Lake – This one’s a popular, high-traffic lake with freezing cold water even on the hottest days. There are a few park entrances, but if you’re going on a weekend, get there early to snag a good parking spot and a bit of lakeshore to call your own.

Looking for a cool solo off-leash spot? Check out Sniffspot! We’ve seen some awesome private yards and wooded areas pop up—perfect for a safe, low-stress summer romp.

When It’s Too Hot to Function: Indoor Enrichment Ideas

I get it—some days it’s just too hot for anything. When it’s 90° and everyone’s melting, here’s how I keep my dogs sane (and prevent destruction):

• Frozen treats – Fill a Kong with goat milk or PLAIN Greek yogurt (unsweetened), kibble, and blueberries. Freeze and serve. You’ll get at least 15 minutes of silence.

• Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats – Mental work tires them out almost as much as physical play.

• DIY scent games – Hide treats in boxes, under towels, or around the house and let them sniff them out.

• Training refreshers – A 10-minute session of “leave it,” “place,” “touch” or “find it” works their brain and builds your bond.

• TV time – No shame in popping on a nature show or YouTube while they snooze in the AC.

Notes from the Author:

Summer adventures with your dog can be so good if you plan with their safety (and sanity) in mind. Stay flexible, pack the essentials, and skip the heatstroke drama. Whether you’re heading out to a creek or hunkering down inside, your dog just wants to be with you—and maybe snack on a frozen Kong in the AC.

-Jessica

Or Let Us Keep Them Cool for You

If you’re stuck at work or it’s just way too hot to deal with another outdoor trip, we’ve got you. At Paws Play, our daycare dogs stay cool in the AC, splash in the kiddie pools, and chase bubbles like it’s their full-time job. It’s summer fun without the sunburn (for you or the dog). 

Book Now!

Book a spot or shoot us a message if you want your pup to enjoy some summer magic—without the overheating, hot pavement, or algae scares.

Have a favorite water spot or indoor boredom-buster? Drop it in the comments or message me—we’re always looking for new ideas (and cooler places to explore).