Canicross Hike; Willow River State Park

Canicross Hiking

Willow River Falls

Conan decided that in the water was the best place to be.

Bugsy and team.

The Points Unknown Canicross Hiking Club met at Willow River State Park, near Hudson, Wisconsin over the weekend. The weather was perfect for a hike with temps around 80 degrees with sunny skies. There was even just enough of a breeze to keep the bugs away.

The hike began along the river in a low area with a gradual ascent through the woods to an open meadow surrounded by forest. Once back into the woods and along the river again, there were two look-outs that viewed the river and vast landscape below.

After the second look-out, we began the steep descent to the rocky "canyon" bottom and the waterfall; a large and scenic waterfall with rock walls on either side. This was the perfect spot for a long stop so both people and canine team members could take a lunch break and relax near or in the water.

After our much needed break, we continued on past the waterfall to an opening in the woods where a lake-like enlargement of the river could be seen and we rested for a short time, enjoying the scenery while the dogs played in the water. Deciding to turn back at this point, we took a side trail to visit the opposite bank of the river for a different, yet still spectacular, view of the waterfall before continuing on to the trail head.

We had five "teams" in attendance. The dogs included two Alaskan Huskies, one Hedlund Husky, one Collie/Husky Cross and one German Shepherd. The hike lasted roughly 3 1/2 hours. I think its safe to say that all canine and people participants slept well that night.