Local Guide To Dog-Friendly Hiking
Remember that New Year’s Resolution you made?
You know, the one about getting more exercise? With NCAA playoffs now over, and spring weather that has been unseasonably pleasant, there is no excuse not to get outside. So why not grab your dog and explore some of our community’s best trails?
One of the best, most dog friendly trails is West Tiger Mountain. Frequented by hikers of all shapes and sizes, this is a perfect trail for people with young to year-old puppies, who need to see lots of different kinds of people and equipment, such as canes, hats, backpacks. Puppies rewarded with a treat when these hikers appear are well on their way to being beautifully friendly and have excellent coping skills. One note of caution, however – even if your dog is on a leash, there are often a few who are not. The trailhead is about 25 minutes east of Seattle, and just east of downtown Issaquah, at the High Point Way exit off I-90. With over 80 miles of trails, great views, and everything from wooded strolls to serious climbing, it’s got something for every dog and handler.
Closer in town is Cougar Mountain Wildland Region. We like the Wilderness Creek trailhead, just off SR900/Renton-Issaquah Rd NE. It’s small, a little less crowded, and gets steep pretty quickly, so it’s a good workout. You can do just a short hike, or spend the whole day by connecting to other Cougar Mountain trails. There are little bridges and creeks to cross, and lots of switchbacks. Special notes - we’ve seen a lot of deer up there, and an occasional bear, and you must stay on the trails due to the mining history of the region.
And even if your primary purpose is to get out and get some exercise, don’t forget the fun training things you can be working on with your dog along the way. Teaching your dog to wear a backpack, and to walk behind you while passing others on the trail is great exercise for both your pet’s mind and body. Wearing a backpack not only aids in carrying supplies, but also helps more energetic dogs stay calm and focused. We recommend packs like those from Outward Hound, which are made with detachable Velcro storage bags that will come off easily if the dog becomes entangled in anything on the trail.
Of course, always be sure to carry some basic supplies on the trail, such as a small first aid kit, waste bags, treats, water, and a collapsible bowl, along with your leash, cell phone, and pocket knife. A whistle is always a good idea, as is a product known as Spray Shield, an alternative to pepper spray that shoots a stream of citronella oil up to ten feet. It won’t stop a bear, but it’s a safe and harmless way to discourage unwelcome threats from other dogs and smaller wildlife.
Happy hiking!
(This article was published in the Spring 2010 edition of IS & Beyond Magazine.)
