So much of our attention is diverted to the marquee destinations, and understandably so. It’s fun to read about diving in Bonaire or skiing Whistler, and we can convince ourselves that we’re actually gathering useful information. Something that will help us plan that next outing. No, I’m not wasting time looking at this video of a hike on the John Muir Trail; this is actually very practical. It’s called preparation.
But our concentration on the glamorous sometimes causes us to overlook less flashy treasures, many of which are brilliant in their own right, many of which are exceedingly accessible and much less crowded. This story in the Bismarck Tribune—which introduces “Spectacular North Dakota Hikes – Bring the Dog” by Susan Wefald—is a welcome reminder of the pleasures that can be found in places not featured (or not featured frequently) in glossy travel magazines.
As a former North Dakota Public Service Commissioner, Wefald spent16 years driving past state parks, wishing she had time to stop and walk about. When she retired, she grabbed her husband and her goldendoodle and hit the road. The result is an overview of 50 hikes across the state, including 43 that allow leashed dogs. Worth a look–the book and the state.
Photo of Susan Wefald and her dog Sandy, by Bob Wefald.
