Trip report by Chad Keller
My wife and I packed up the kids (our german shepherd and rottweiler), backpack, food and water, snowshoes, and camera into our 4X4. We couldn't have picked a better day! The trail was relatively uncrowded and the snow pack was perfect for snowshoeing with little risk of avalanche.
Hiking with a strong working breed like a rottie (or husky or malamute) can sure be fun. My dog carries his own pack and he wears a harness when hiking. I hook the leash to the harness and belt on my pack and my dog thrives on pulling me up the steep climbs. These trips keep my dogs healthy and happy and my wife and I love every minute of it.
I do get annoyed at other dog owners who don't clear the trail of fido's droppings. And I get a kick out of people who have a strong sense of fido-phobia (I've been bitten by dogs before - so I'm not saying some people aren't justified). A couple times we've rounded a corner only to find some skier flying out of control towards us and as soon as he spots Samson (my 11 mo rottie who wants nothing more than to go play and/or lick his face - but I thoughtfully hold him back on his leash) the skiers eyes bulge, he tightens up, and "wipe out"!!
Sometimes we bring our plastic sled/toboggan and let the dogs pull our gear. Then we take turns riding behind them on the way back down. Anyway, on the way out, I stopped to help pull out a VW that was stuck where they parked. Even with a 4x4 with big tires and plenty of traction - I still bring chains and a shovel - and fortunantely for many people - I bring a tow rope.
Make sure you are prepared for the trail and the weather - and also make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter travel. May your trips be both safe and fun!!
Annette Lake is outside the boundary of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Dogs are permitted here, but not within the wilderness, located just north of here. As always, non-skiers (including Fido) should do their best to preserve set ski tracks.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.