Yesterday I told you I have plans to take Sampson up to the woods for walks. I figure it will be challenging based upon the folks that let their dogs run off-leash up there, but if I plan carefully and take precautions I think it’s doable.
Saturday I set off for the woods. We walked up the hill and into the park. I’ve taken Sampson up here a couple of times, but during those times I’ve only gone into the field and walked him around.
Our park has a three or four different colored trails. Saturday I chose the orange trail, which is (IMO) the hardest trail, because there are areas where it is very steep. If you follow the entire trail (which we didn’t) you will encounter these challenging areas at a minimum of three or four times.
Sampson and I caught the orange trail right inside the park. This particular trail starts off up hill but it levels out at the top, and it intersects with the yellow trail, which is very wide and the main trail into the park. It’s also all down hill from where we picked it up. My thought process was all uphill for the beginning of the walk when we were fresh with lots of energy, then all down hill on the way home.
Follow me Mama, I haven’t forgotten.
The other reason I chose the this particular section of the orange trail was for the height. This trail runs parallel with the yellow trail, so while the trees are full, I still have a great advantage to keep an eye out for people and off-leash dogs and that gives me the option of tightening my grip on Sampson, or turning around to avoid the conflict.
I’m not sure if it was the time of day, the fact it was a holiday weekend or we maybe the universe was just giving us a lovely walk, but we didn’t encounter another dog or person.
Just like I remember.
He remembered all the spots we usually run into someone too!
The Heart Like a Dog Lesson: Even when something seems impossible, determination can find a way.
I am so so pleased to hear it went well and that the universe was on your side!!
Yay! A conflict-free walk is always the best kind. I hope it’s a trend and not a fluke.
That’s awesome. I would take it as a sign you are supposed to take him up there and I bet he was happy as a clam!
Sounds like a nice walk! I’m sure Sampson loved it.
Nice..looks very pretty. I love when no people or dogs are around!! So much stress watching for all those other things..just like to enjoy. Do you only take one dog at a time now?? I was thinking of doing that myself lately…but always feel bad for the one left behind..especially when they cry…its pitiful..they know how to tug at your heart. Lol
This is Awesome Sauce. We are glad that it all went so well. GOOD planning.
There ya go! See, it wasn’t so hard after all! Glad you and Sampson enjoyed your walk!!
I’m so glad you were able to enjoy a lovely walk together!
It sounds like the universe knew you needed to be alone and made it happen.
So glad it went well for you guys!!!
Looks like a fun trail!
ღ husky hugz ღ frum our pack at Love is being owned by a husky!
I am glad you found a way to have a nice walk. It looks like a beautiful trail. Our parks were pretty empty over the holiday weekend. I am sure they will be busy again this week. 🙂
I’m so glad I’m not the only one who strategizes hikes around possible off-leash dogs on trails!
You had a good plan and it worked out well….yay!
So great to live near woods and a nice trail. Every walk with Fozzie involves multiple stages of mental preparation too–nice when it works out more relaxing than we expected!
Walks where you don’t run into anyone else are the BEST!
You and Sampson needed a good, peaceful walk. So glad, your positive instincts were confirmed. Sampson looked so happy!
Gus’ Mom
Hooray for a peaceful walk! Just what you both needed!
So glad it went well!
I love how you have a plan and think things out before you go. Great walk thanks for sharing, glad you guys got out to the woods.