Trails for Tails
I’m often asked what makes a good dog hike. Dogs don’t care if the views are great or the trails are lined with wildflowers. Dogs love being outdoors with their people. If there are places for them to sniff and explore along a trail, any dog will be happy. The most important factor is that the hike needs to be fun, interesting and engaging for dog owners.
The following hikes in the southern Adirondacks are a sampling from my book Doghiker: Great Hikes with Dogs from the Adirondacks through the Catskills.
Hackensack Mountain
The Hudson and Schroon Rivers are visible from Hackensack’s summit, as are dozens of mountains in the area. This small peak is encircled by trails, with the steepest being the most direct route to the top. Trails on the north side have unmarked intersections. There are great summit views.
Mileage: 2.6 miles r/t loop
Elevation gain: 750 feet
Leash: Required
Dog safety & hazards: A steep section of the red trail might challenge older dogs
Water: None
Hiker traffic: Light
Best time to hike: Spring and autumn
Turn onto Emerson Avenue from US 9
