Got That Dog in Me - Dog Mountain Hike

**Distance:** 6mi
**Elevation:** 3,000ft
**Difficulty:** 8/10

In the spring and summer, Dog Mountain is known as a tough hike with beautiful views and stunning wildflowers as payoff for a long climb. Since it’s late November, we won’t be seeing wildflowers, and we’ll be lucky if we get a peek of the gorge at the top. It’ll be some good old-fashioned type-2 fun either way!

Please arrive at the trailhead ready for a prompt **9:00am** start. The trail gains all of its 3000 feet of elevation in the first 3 miles. Come prepared for a steep and relentless climb. If you haven’t done a hike similar to this in elevation before, this probably isn’t the best introduction. We should arrive back at the trailhead between noon and 1pm, depending on the pace of the group.

While there’s no snow in the gorge at the moment, conditions can change quickly at this time of year. **If there’s snow and ice at the top, please bring traction (microspikes, yaktrax, etc.) and hiking poles.** I’ll post an update on Thursday if it looks like we’ll run into snow.

**Bring:** Sturdy shoes with good grip, weather-appropriate clothing, plenty of snacks, plenty of water, a hat and gloves, and an extra layer for the top (it gets cold and windy). Hiking poles are recommended for the descent.

Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome on this hike! Since this is a popular day hike, please don’t bring any dogs that are aggressive towards other dogs or people. If your pup comes along, make sure to bring enough water for both of you. There are no creeks or water sources on the trail.

Carpooling is encouraged and can be coordinated in the comments. Each vehicle at the trailhead will need either to display a valid NW Forest Pass or pay the $5 day-use fee.

*My goal is to ensure that all attendees have a safe and enjoyable experience, but please be aware that I am a volunteer host and not a professional guide. By attending this hike, you acknowledge that you are accepting sole responsibility for your own safety and well-being. Please come prepared, know your own limits, and hike at your own risk.*