Get out: Dogs gotta hike, too

Tuesday, July 06, 2010

By Kayla Diane Sanders

Jackson Hole, Wyoming - With restrictions on pets in Grand Teton National Park, town parks and other common Jackson Hole locations, it helps to know the pet-friendly hiking spots where your furry friends will find plenty of running space.
Park Ranger Justin Walters enjoys several dog-friendly hikes in the region, where open space and access to water are abundant, including Game Creek, anywhere in the Gros Ventres, Ski Lake and Snake River Dike.

If you’re in town and want a nearby excursion with your four-legged buddy try Snow King Loop. It’s about 4.8 miles, and will bring you right back to the car. The trail inclines for good exercise, and has great views of the National Elk Refuge, Teton Range and Snake River. While this hike is rather short, it does have steep areas, so be sure your dog is under verbal control.

Another hike just on the edge of town is Cache Creek/Game Creek, which stretches 9.7 miles one-way. If you’re looking for something shorter, just turn around at the halfway mark, known as the Cache Creek/Game Creek Divide. This hike has natural drinking water for your pet, but if you’re doing the entire stretch, extra water may be needed.

The hike to Grizzly Lake in the Gros Ventre range is about 4.5 miles one-way and lies mainly in the foothills. Grizzly Lake also has open meadows of wildflowers and sagebrush for you and Fido to frolic. This hike, in many ways, is the full package because “it provides views of the Teton Range, plenty of water, optimal camping with your dog and great fishing,” Walters said.

A quick hike to burn some of your dog’s energy, the Snake River Dike is right outside of town. At just three miles, the dyke is a nice way to unwind as you follow the Snake River upstream along a wide road, and it’s open year-round. One of the best aspects of this walk is the access to water, which is very important during the summer’s hot and dry climate.

A little further out of town, past Wilson, and up Teton Pass is Ski Lake, which is another great hike for your dog. This trail runs about 2.4 miles one-way, and provides plenty of natural water along the trail to keep your pet hydrated and cool. The lake at the top has excellent views, while still being tucked away in the forest. This hike is a local’s favorite and a good cardio workout for any human or canine. It is also great for flower lovers to see dashes of color along the edges of the trail, and a nice way to get out of town without going too far.

These trails are only a select few among several great hikes for you to spend time with your best friend. Other options in the Jackson Hole area that Walters suggests are Goodwin Lake, Mosquito Creek and Wilson Bridge, which all provide water for Fido and beautiful scenery for you. To keep you and your pet safe on your hiking adventures, please maintain verbal control, do not let them get out of your range of site, always carry a bear deterrent, and bring plenty of water. Next time you load up your trail gear, remember that your dog needs to get out too. JHW

Trail mileage from Jackson Hole Hikes by Rebecca Woods.

Photo courtesy Kayla Diane Sanders

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Get out: Dogs gotta hike, too | Planet JH News Article: Sports & Recreation

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