- How was the VT Dog Hiking Challenge developed? Over the summer of 2023, Robin and her dog Millie challenged themselves to hike a new trail every week. Robin posted one minute trail review reels on Instagram, which resulted in series called “Happy Trails”. As part of that challenge, Robin, her dad, and Millie were hiking in the Adirondacks when they learned about the ADK-9 Challenge. After doing a little research and learning that we didn’t have a state dog hiking challenge in Vermont, Robin decided to develop one, and the idea for the VT Dog Hiking Challenge was born.
- Do you need a dog to participate in the challenge?
Nope, you can hike the trail in honor of a dog, or in support of a dog. Maybe you know a dog who has some medical expenses. You could do the challenge as a fund-raiser for your canine friend or even for your local humane society! - Why do you have information about racism in outdoor recreation on your website? Racism was declared a public health emergency in Vermont. When there is an emergency, it’s important to act. One thing we can do is to help make people aware that even though we like to think of Vermont as a warm and welcoming place, racism exists here. This challenge provides an opportunity to learn about how racism is entwined in outdoor recreation, and about actions we can take to move toward a more just society.
- How were the trails selected?
Robin works at the Vermont Department of Health; in VT we have one health department, and 12 district offices located around the state. In order to get a variety of trails from all around the state, Robin reached out to colleagues in the 12 district offices for suggestions. In addition to district office feedback, trails were selected based on the Green Mountain Club’s list of Accessible Trails around Vermont, and Lisa Densmore’s book Best Hikes with Dogs/New Hampshire and Vermont. - What about safety?
Safety is of the utmost importance; The VT Dog Hiking Challenge includes a Safety page with information from the American Hiking Society about how to safely hike with your dog. The Green Mountain Club also has information about safely hiking with dogs. - Is there a social media presence?
Yes, in addition to the VT Dog Hiking Challenge Website there is a Facebook page and Instagram account where people can share reviews and pictures. Ideally this will be an interactive experience; a way for people who love dogs and hiking to connect. - For the trails that don’t have a set length (rail trails, recreation paths, trail networks) how far do I have to go for it to count toward the challenge? It’s totally up to you, whatever you feel good about doing that day is fine. The point is to get out there and get some fresh air and exercise!
- Is there anything I can do to become more involved with the challenge? You bet! See the Promoting the Challenge page on this website for a poster that you can post all over town (e.g., the library, gym, rec center, town hall, vet, doggy daycare, etc…) We’d love your help in reviewing the trails and sending in pictures that we can add to the website and our Facebook and Instagram pages. We’d also love your suggestions about how to improve the Challenge, feel free to contact us through our Contact page, Facebook, or Instagram!
