Hiking with dogs is not only a good way to exercise and have fun, but now that the weather allows it and the heat is not oppressive, this is the ideal time to do it. We can also do it not only during vacations, but on any weekend or day off, taking advantage of the opportunity to spend the day with our ARISTOPET, since we can go hiking just a few kilometers from the city.
Things to consider before going on a hike
One of the most important things we need to consider is the weather expected on the day or days of the route, as this will also determine what the terrain will be like when we do the hike. During these months, when cold and rain are common, we may encounter snow, ice, moss, or large puddles along the way.
It is also essential to plan the route we are going to take and know in advance how long the journey will last, so that we can anticipate everything we will need and know where we will stop to rest. The type of terrain is likewise a significant factor, as the route may include changes in elevation or slopes that make the activity more difficult, and we need to know this so we can determine how much weight we can carry, what type of footwear to wear, or whether it will be easy for our pet to complete.
Lastly, it is essential to know our pet's health condition and age perfectly, as depending on these factors, we can choose the most suitable route for them. In addition, if your dog is not used to getting much exercise, you should train them gradually before embarking on the adventure.
Routes in Madrid
1. Viewpoint Route (Cercedilla)
In the heart of the Guadarrama Mountains, this route is 10 kilometers long and can be completed in approximately two hours. It is circular and features various streams where your dog can have fun splashing around. In addition, as its name suggests, along the way you can find different viewpoints from which to enjoy views of the entire Sierra de Madrid.
2. Callado del Cabrón (La Pedriza)
Despite its peculiar name, this is one of the most incredible routes to take with dogs. It is difficult to find trails that are perfectly enclosed and fenced, and this is one of them. It starts at the Cantocochino car park, which is perfect because the route is circular. You can leave your car in the car park, walk the 10 km that make up the route, and finish in the same place.
Routes in Valencia
1.The Júcar Canyons (Jalance)
This is an 11 km linear route with an approximate duration of about four hours. It is of great scenic interest due to the impressive walls and views of the Júcar canal, a spectacular construction that brings water through a 14 km tunnel from the Molinar reservoir in Villa de Ves.
2.Portalet Trail (Gandía)
This is a very easy linear route of around 2 km where you and your ARISTODOG can enjoy the spectacular landscape of the Parpalló-Borrell Municipal Natural Area in Gandía. It is a local trail that runs through the area known as Barrac de Borrell. It consists of 3 ravines that form the city's most important water network and, at the same time, geological formations that captivate us with the unique, dramatic beauty of the limestone cliffs, as well as the impressive rocks already eroded by water.
Routes in Asturias
1.Cueto de Arbas Route (Cangas del Narcea)
This is a 5-kilometre route of medium difficulty with an approximate duration of two and a half hours. You and your ARISTODOG can enjoy a landscape of great beauty along the Partial Nature Reserve of Cueto de Arbas, bounded by high mountain ridges and open to the east towards the Naviegu River. You can admire glacial ridges and frequent deposits that form one of the best examples of the glacial model in the mountains of western Asturias.
2.Pendones – Vega Baxu Route (Pendones)
A 13-kilometre route of low difficulty with an approximate duration of three hours and forty-five minutes. The path runs through the Corralín River valley, a tributary of the Pendones, an area where you and your pet can enjoy splendid views from Gasgasa of the Nalón River and the heights of the Cordal de la Fuente. In addition, during autumn, the reddish colour of its leaves tints the park's mountains, creating a truly spectacular sight.
Routes in Barcelona
1.Terrassa Small Lake
This is a small reservoir on the outskirts of Terrassa, roughly half an hour from the city of Barcelona. It is a nature-filled place near the city where your dogs can swim peacefully and enjoy the natural surroundings. It is a very short route from the parking area, so it is ideal if your pet is not very used to exercising; it is a good way to start and adapt.
2.Font de les Dous
It is a flat path lined with plane trees and riverside vegetation, offering beautiful panoramic views over the orchards and the stream. The springs and other landmarks are spread along the path, with beautiful, crystal-clear natural water where you can enjoy spectacular views and the finest nature. It is also ideal for spending the day, as Font de les Dous has 35 water fountains, a lovely area for camping, barbecues, pools, and waterfalls, making it the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy.
Routes in Cádiz
1.The Roman road trail (Benaocaz)
This is a very easy linear route of around 3.5 km, ideal if your pet is still very young or is not used to doing much exercise. This trail combines nature and culture, offering heritage that allows us to discover the park from Benaocaz to Ubrique and the history of its settlement. From Salto de la Mora, the Roman city of Ocuri overlooks the trail, surrounded by a large wall and featuring important infrastructure such as water tanks and thermal baths, where you can spend the day enjoying the wonderful natural setting along this route.
2.The cliffs of Barbate
It has an easy 12 km route lasting approximately three hours, through a natural area featuring the incredible pine forests of the La Breña and Marismas de Barbate Natural Park. Along the route, you will have the opportunity to enjoy spectacular cliffs more than 100 metres above sea level, near the Torre del Tajo. It is a sandy path, making it very comfortable for our ARISTOPET.
Unique and extraordinary places where ARISTODOGS can release all their energy, play, and have great fun by your side.
And have you done any of these routes? Do you know any others to share with the ARISTOPET community? Tell us about them on social media.