Hiking Washington’s beautiful trails is better with a furry, four-legged companion. Along with my enthusiastic hiking partner, Harrison the Goldendoodle, I have explored the Mount Baker Wilderness, the Columbia River Gorge and even the summits of Mount Pilchuck and Mailbox Peak. Washington is among the most dog-friendly states in the country (per a March Forbes story, 61% of Evergreen State respondents have brought their pooch on vacation , the highest figure nationwide).
Still, dog owners need to do some homework before bringing Fido on the trail. To create a positive experience for you, your canine buddy and other folks on the trail or at the campground, here are nine do’s and don’ts to remember while adventuring with your dog this year. More Do your research and only bring your dog where he or she is allowed.
While most of the Washington State Parks and Seattle Parks and Recreation systems allow dogs, there are some exceptions, for cultural and environmental reasons. Always check before you go. As a rule of thumb, Washington State Parks communications consultant Meryl Lassen said state parks are amenable to leashed dogs.
“Lots of people camp with their dogs, hike with their dogs or picnic with their dogs,” she said. “We just ask people to have their dog on leash at all times and have them trained to be a good trail partner.” However, the three national parks in Washington (Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades) largely prohibit pets altogether, outside pa.
