Winter Dog Walks

Pictured: Maeve, a 7 month old Australian Shepard, exercises with her people at Pleasant Hill Preserve.

One of winter’s many delights is a hike in the snow with a happy dog, and many dogs call our trails their happy place!

SLT has a trail for every style of snow-hound; here are suggestions to match your dog’s needs:

For a longer walk with some inclines:

• • • • Fuller Farm
      • The trails past the barn at Pleasant Hill
      • Warren Woods

For on-leash dogs  who prefer other on-leashed dogs:

• • • • Blue Point Preserve
      • Eleanor’s trail at Pleasant Hill
      • Broadturn Farm

For dogs who need a quick, easy excursion:

• • • • Sewell Woods
      • Blue Heron Preserve

Winter dog walking tips:

Make sure you check the temps! Different breeds have different cold tolerances.  A malamute and a pug will not likely share the same opinion of deep snow and sub-zero temperatures.

Paws should be protected from ice and salt – there are lots of booties, balms, and other proactive treatments out there.

Dogs can grip snow and ice much better than we can in our Bean boots – remember, if you don’t have natural traction, store bought is fine! Throw on some ice cleats when conditions look slick.

When visiting SLT trails, make sure you check the kiosk at the trailhead for all dog walking rules! Each preserve has its own rules and limitations. Here’s a quick overview (more details on our website):

ALL PRESERVES:

Leash dogs while loading and unloading from cars and within 300 ft of the parking area for everyone’s safety! Leashes mean leashes, not training tools like remote control collars.

Make sure you can keep your dog with you and under control on the trails, to avoid disturbing wildlife or negative encounters with other visitors.

Two dogs per capable handler. It’s important to know your limits to keep things safe!

Special Rules at Certain Preserves:

Pleasant Hill Preserve: Dogs must be leashed on Eleanor’s trail to the barn. Eleanors trail leaves the parking lot past the info kiosk, and ends at the barn. Once past the barn, dogs may be off leash and under voice control.

Libby River Preserve: Dogs on leash on all trails to protect programs at Ketcha Outdoors

Blue Point Preserve: Dogs on leash on all trails to keep them from entering neighbors’ yards

Broadturn Farm Preserve: On leash on all trails because of active agricultural practices and equipment in use.

These rules are in place for everyone’s safety – you, your dog, other visitors, and neighbors. Thanks for helping keep our trail community safe and friendly, and enjoy the winter wonderland!