Outbound Hound - Travel Unleashed

Cross Country Trail: Colvin Run Mill to Potomac River

Time: 1.5+ hours (or more depending on your route)

Length: Out and back – up to you

Gear: water – leash – map

Difficulty Level: 1 paw

Scenery: 3 paws

Pack: You and your dog

Recently Karma and I revisited one of my go-to trails near my home – CCT. It was before all the snow fell but after some drenching rain, so the right shoes were still a must for this trail. Remember, you will walk through some water.

This time we walked a bit further as the summer heat was long gone and Karma was enjoying the cold temperatures. The inset photo shows where we turned back, just before the trail crosses the stream. It’s a great crossing, but I started to over-analyze – what if Karma slipped and fell in? What if I did? That water is darn cold! – so I decided that in the warmer months we would cross.

I will let you in on a secret. Karma was mostly off leash! I cannot endorse such a thing, of course, as it is always safer to have your dog in full control in case of a deer, other wildlife, passers-by and other dogs. That is my official statement. But unofficially, we started early and basically had the trail to ourselves until we were almost back to the car when we did pass a jogger and two separate people with unfriendly dogs. Karma is definitely growing up as his recalls were great and he was a perfect gentleman around these distractions.

It’s interesting, you MUST have solid recalls but often it’s hard to practice them – especially with distractions – unless you can be off leash in those areas. Hmmm. But a reliable recall can save your dog’s life so find environments where you can practice and always have rewards on hand! I have said this before (and Karma and I continue to work this) you must be THE best thing in your dog’s life! The source of all fun and rewards and of course, great hikes!