Why hiking with your dog is a great activity (and some of my personal favorite dog friendly hikes)

Hiking is not just a favorite outdoor activity for many Arizonans; it's also an incredible way to bond with your furry friend. And what better place to do it than Flagstaff, Arizona! Whether you have a high-energy pup or a laid-back companion, hitting the trails together offers a plethora of physical, mental, and emotional benefits for both you and your dog. In this blog post, we'll talk about some of my favorite local trails to go to with your dog and how this shared adventure can deepen your connection.

Before we get started, please remember that these are public trails being used by many different dogs and people. Some dogs/people might not like other dogs, some might be scared, or some might just want to be left alone. Whatever the reason, make sure you aren't allowing your dog to rush up to others without permission. Unless you dog has a bomb-proof recall, like they would turn on a dime and run back to you even if there was a nice medium rare steak in front of them, it is only fair to the others out enjoying nature for you to keep them leashed. Remember, it isn't always YOUR dog who is the "problem"! Keeping your dog leashed ensures their safety, too, so they do not rush up on a dog who may not like other dogs. I have seen far too many dogs getting attacked because they run up to another dog on the trail and that dog snaps. It's up to you to make sure your dog stays safe!

Alright, let's dive in!

First, let's cover why hiking is such a great activity to do with your dog from a professional dog trainer's perspective. 

1. Exercise and Physical Health: One of the most apparent reasons to hike with your dog is the physical exercise it provides. Dogs require regular physical activity to stay healthy and maintain an ideal weight. Hiking offers a dynamic terrain that engages various muscle groups and joints, which can be more stimulating than a routine walk around the block. This physical activity helps prevent obesity, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts overall fitness levels for both you and your companion. I mean come on? Who doesn't want their dog to lives the healthiest and longest life!
   
   
   
2. Mental Stimulation: Hiking is not just a workout for the body but also for the mind. Dogs thrive on mental stimulation, and the ever-changing environment of a hiking trail provides ample opportunities for exploration and sensory experiences. The sights, sounds, and scents of nature can captivate your dog's attention, keeping them mentally engaged and happy.
   
   
   
3. Strengthening the Bond: Spending quality time together on the trail can significantly strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Hiking fosters trust and communication as you navigate obstacles and challenges as a team. Your dog will begin to learn to rely on your guidance, and you'll gain a deeper understanding of their behavior and needs. 
   
   
   
4. Stress Reduction: Hiking is a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a more peaceful pace/environment. Think about the fact that our human world is SO foreign to dogs. By getting your dog outside, you are helping to tap into their instinctive tendencies. Enjoying the great outdoors together is a rejuvenating experience that can leave you and your dog feeling more relaxed and centered.
   
   
   
   

Now that we have talked about some of the benefits of getting out and hiking with your dog, let's cover a few of my favorite dog friendly trails to check out with your pup (for more details look these up on your All Trails app!):

1. Schultz Pass Trail: Schultz Pass Trail is a moderate hike that provides stunning views of the San Francisco Peaks and the surrounding forests. This trail is approximately 4 miles long and offers a peaceful and scenic escape.
   
   
2. Kachina Trail: Kachina Trail is a moderate to strenuous hike that allows dogs! It offers beautiful views of the San Francisco Peaks and can be accessed from Arizona Snowbowl. The trail is approximately 5 miles one-way and is part of the Kachina Peaks Wilderness.
   
   
3. Buffalo Park Loop Trail: This is one of my favorite places if you want a casual walk more than a hike. Buffalo Park offers a convenient and pet-friendly trails here in Flagstaff, with lots of off shoots to explore little trails! The main loop trail is approximately 2 miles long and provides gorgeous views of the San Francisco Peaks. Dogs are more than welcome here, but this is a place that they must be on a leash at all times.
   
   
4. Elden Lookout Trail: Elden Lookout Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike. It leads to a fire lookout tower with panoramic views of Flagstaff and the surrounding area. While it is dog friendly, this is a strenuous trail and should only be done with your dog if they are physically capable. The trail is about 5 miles round-trip, and trust me you do not want to get stuck carrying your dog back down.
   
   All in all, you can find TONS of beautiful, dog-friendly trails/hikes here in Flagstaff, AZ. There really is no shortage, and most dirt roads bring you to new ones! Remember to bring plenty of water for both you and your pet, as the high elevation can lead to dehydration pretty quickly. As a final reminder, be respectful of other hikers, wildlife, and the environment. Keeping your dog on a leash and cleaning up after them is how we can ensure everyone can get out and enjoy this beautiful city.