There are very few things in life that beat hiking with your dog. From short hikes in the neighborhood forest, to epic adventures in the mountains. Hiking with your dog is an exciting journey. Nothing is worse, however, than hiking with a dog that does not know how to walk on lead. Fortunately, the slip lead has been a time tested and trusted solution for those unruly pups.
One of the most important things you can do for your pet is train your dog to walk on lead. Dogs need plenty of exercise, we know that…we know you like to let them run off-leash…but there are countless scenarios where off-leash hiking is not possible. Training your dog to walk on leash is necessary to ensure you, and your pal, have the best experience possible. Taking them out for regular walks is a great way to keep them happy, healthy, and get them comfortable hiking on lead. But which leash is best? That’s where slip leads come in! Here’s a quick guide to using slip lead leashes for any type of pup.
A slip lead leash is an adjustable, looped collar and leash combo that comes in various sizes to fit all types of dogs. Our Sloper Slip Lead is made from retired climbing rope, other slip leads can be made out of any material such as leather or nylon webbing. It also has an adjustable loop on one end that can be used to create more slack or tighten the leash as needed. The main advantage of using a slip lead is the ability to communicate with your dog via pressure and release, rather than verbal cues. Oh, and they’re easy to use; just put it over your pup’s head and pull the lead tight enough so your pup doesn’t slip out accidentally. Slip leads tighten when tensioned and loosen when given slack. This allows for complete control of your dog, no matter how wild your pup is.
Slip leads are incredibly versatile and can be used for everything from leisurely strolls around the neighborhood to intense training sessions.
1. Placement: Facing the dog, place the lead over their head. If the dog is walking on the left side, the leash should resemble a “P”. For dogs walking on the right , the leash should resemble a “9”.
2. Fit: Snug leash as high as possible on the top of the neck.
3. Comfort: Make sure it’s not too tight by slipping two fingers between their neck and the collar; if you can’t fit two fingers in there comfortably, loosen it up some more!
4. Off-Leash: When walking off leash, sling your slip leash over your shoulder for hands-free storage and quick access.
5. Unattended: since slip leads require pressure to remain secure, it is not ideal to leave your pups unattended. If you need to tie your pup up, a slip lead may not be your best option.
Using a slip lead while hiking is an easy way to maintain control, and communicate with your dog effortlessly. Slip leads work with most breeds but may require different sizing, always check for comfort by slipping two fingers under the collar, avoid leaving them unattended while wearing one, and never tie them up with this type of leash. With these simple tips in mind, you’ll be ready for many happy adventures together!
If this blog didn’t help. See this video on how to properly use a slip leash from the dog whisperer himself.
By Winston Endall
Nestled in the hills of Eastern Kentucky is an oasis of sandstone walls that beckon climbers from all over the world. The Red River Gorge is the epicenter for sport-climbing in eastern North America with thousands of routes, easy approaches, and a community that welcomes climbers.
Most of the climbing is along the Hwy. 11 corridor which means most of the areas are within a half-hour drive of any of the places you might camp or rent a cottage. The central hub of the climbing community in the Red River Gorge is the world-famous Miguels Pizza. The little family-run pizza shop at the side of the road has grown to be a rock climber’s resort capable of hosting hundreds of people. They also have one of the best gear shops onsite so you don’t have to worry if you forgot any gear. In fact, they stock many items that you don’t find at the local REI or outdoor store.
The Red River Gorge Climber’s Coalition (RRGCC) is the primary organization to advocate for access, manage most of the climbing areas, and spread sustainable climbing ethics in the area. This climber-owned and managed group are responsible for the fundraising and acquisition of numerous properties that have been turned into rock climbing parks. By buying the land and administering it they remove the usual land access issues that climbers face.
Doug Foster on Golden Boy (13b)at the Gold Coast, Red River Gorge, KY
Over millennia erosion left deep channels in the surrounding plateau. The underlying sandstone became exposed and in the mid-1900s, adventurous people started trying to climb up the steep faces and crack systems. Fast forward to the 90s and people realized that the Red River Gorge would be a perfect place for what was new at the time, bolted sport climbing.
The featured sandstone walls can be found in varying steepnesses from easy slabs to overhanging roofs. The crags pop up all over the gorge seemingly from nowhere in the forest. Rather than long exposed walls, as you will see in some gorge or canyon settings, the crags in the Red River Gorge are little climbing oases dotted throughout the steep valleys.
What is awesome about the Red is that it offers climbing for every level. A new climber transitioning out of the gym for the first time will be at home with routes that are easily stick clipped and have close bolt spacing. But it is also a destination for Adam Ondra and Alex Megos to put up futuristic test pieces on wildly overhanging walls.
For the new climbers looking for fun moderate climbs then heading to Pendergrass-Murray will give you tons of options. There are many other grades represented as well with a lot of quality 5.10 routes. Just be aware that the drive-in is slow and rough. An all-wheel-drive vehicle with a bit of clearance is recommended.
If you are a crusher wanting to pull on tiny holds on steep walls then Bald Rock is your destination. Particularly of note is the Motherlode crag. with a wealth of routes 5.12 and higher.
Formed in 1996, the RRGCC was at the forefront of climbing access advocacy in the East. The National Forest Service had a bolting moratorium in the Red River Gorge which would have limited new route development. The Coalition negotiated to allow climbing access and allow bolting which is why today there are over 3500 routes in the Gorge.
In 2004 they purchased the 750-acre Murray property which became one of the largest climber-owned areas in the country. It was renamed the Pendergrass-Murray Recreational Preserve and is now open to climbers in perpetuity.
With assistance from the Access Fund, other properties followed with the RRGCC now owning and managing the Pendergrass-Murray, Miller Fork, and Bald Rock Recreational Preserves. These rock climbing parks have well-groomed trails, modern hardware, easy-to-follow signage, and built-up belay areas when needed. Hardware is regularly checked and maintained in these parks by volunteers from the Coalition.
It takes a lot of work to maintain these areas with a small army of volunteers repairing erosion on the trails, replacing hardware, and working to maintain the safety of the areas while still keeping an eye on minimal disturbance of the natural beauty.
Location: Miguel’s Pizza
This season kick-off is held at the world-famous, Miguel’s Pizza. What started as a roadside pizza shack has grown into a rock climbing resort. There is space for hundreds of people to camp plus rooms and cabins for rent. You can even sleep in the parking lot if you have a camper van. After almost 40 years it is still less than $5 per night to camp.
They have washrooms, showers, laundry, beach volleyball, basketball, slack lines, fire pit, and a yoga room. Even if you don’t come to this event, make sure you stay at Miguel’s at least once to experience a year-round climbing festival and some of the best pizza you’ve ever had.
Book ahead as the place will be packed. Great climbing during the day with food, music, and prizes at night to celebrate the new climbing season.
With the best gear shop in the area, Miguel’s has great relationships with many of the gear brands so you will have lots of cool prizes such as climbing shoes, ropes, and quickdraws. Combine this with the awesome food from both Miguel’s and Redpoint BBQ you will be missing out if you don’t make the trip in March to the Red River Gorge.
And don’t forget to grab a Miguel’s T-shirt. It is a secret code for other rock climbers to know you are a climber.
Location: Lago Linda’s Campground
This is your chance to give back to the Red River Gorge climbing community. Volunteers are needed to help with projects all around the RRGCC properties. From trail maintenance to building new bridges, there is never an end to the work that needs to be done to keep these climbing areas in good shape.
For this event, the RRGCC teams up with the Access Fund conservation team to bring the trails and infrastructure of the climbing parks to the highest level.
And to celebrate all the hard work you did during the day, the night at Lago Linda’s Campground will be a party with food, music, and local libations.
Location: Land Of The Arches Campground
Wrap up the season with perfect climbing conditions. The cooler weather of fall will keep your skin tight and dry to pull on the smallest crimps. Then in the evening enjoy a celebration of all that is the Red with food, prizes, and a night of music and dancing. Join your tribe and feel like you are the place you belong.
Land of Arches is a great base for this event as it is centrally located to get to all of the climbing areas in the Red.
Donate
It costs a lot of money to buy and maintain these rock climbing areas. The RRGCC doesn’t charge for access so the only way they raise money is with donations.
You can donate to help support climbing in the Red River Gorge by clicking this link.
Volunteer
It takes lots of people to put in a lot of work to maintain and expand a climbing area. From trail maintenance to replacing gear, none of this happens without people willing to volunteer their time and effort.
Aside from Trail Days in June, keep an eye out or get on their mailing list to know when they need a hand.
Beyond trail work, consider yourself a steward of the crags whenever you go out. Pick up garbage and carry it out even if it isn’t yours. Make note of any erosion, damaged hardware, or downed trees blocking trails, and let the RRGCC know when you are done climbing.
Promote
Share on social media and at your local climbing gym. If everyone who climbs in the Gorge donates a few dollars it will add up to a lot over the course of the year as a few hundred thousand people visit the area to climb each season.
Donate/Shop
Donate your retired climbing gear to CragDog (Us!). We contribute 30% of sales proceeds to local and national climbing advocacy organizations like the RRGCC.
When buying CragDog products from our website, at checkout, you can select the Red River Gorge Climbing Coalition as your desired partner organization.
In the Red River Gorge area the only real climbing shop is located at Miguel’s Pizza. It is just past the restaurant and boasts one of the largest selections we’ve seen in any shop. This is really apparent with eight brands of shoes and hard goods from just about every brand imaginable.
They also sell guide books for each of the areas so you won’t have a problem finding your next dream project.
The staff is all climbers so don’t hesitate to ask for advice on gear or where to climb. They are always happy to help out.
Plus you can get a selection of training tools to take home to make your next trip even better. From hangboards to grippers you will find most of the gear you need to pull hard.
Located just down the road from Miguel’s, Southeast Mountain Guides headquarters is nestled in a side canyon of their very own. They offer guided climbs, instruction, and trips all across the southeast.
Whether you climb at their location or hit any of the other walls in the area, AMGA-certified guides will work to impart knowledge and safe practices while keeping the climbing fun.
For those who want the rock climbing experience without taking the time to learn the ins and outs of technical climbing, they offer a Via Ferrata route on site.
The Red River Gorge Climber’s Coalition has done a lot of work to guarantee that climbers will have access to quality routes for generations to come. Rather than just negotiate with land owners for access they raised the funds to buy the properties outright. With some of the best climbing in the Gorge on their managed properties, you know that you won’t have an issue finding great projects on your next trip to the Gorge.
Support the people who help make climbing accessible for everyone. The RRGCC is an example of what is possible when the community comes together for a common cause.
A message from Kelly and Christian, CragDog founders:We wish all our current customers, future customers, dog owners, and rock climbers the best for a holiday season full of fun with their dogs and their outdoor adventures. Thanks for visiting our website and looking at our products. We are grateful for those of you who have purchased and who have contributed used climbing gear that we recycle for our products. In the spirit of the holidays and throughout the year, CragDog contributes 30% of sales proceeds to local and national climbing advocacy organizations.
To help with your holiday shopping, we have compiled here a few of our favorite holiday gifts for our dogs and for dog owners who love the outdoors. These are practical gifts which will be welcomed and used.
Leashes – CragDog sells many different types of climbing rope dog leashes, some with and without carabiners, depending on your preference. All are made with up-cycle used climbing gear; creating pet-safe, easy-use equipment. Check out our website for the leash that works best for you!
Dog Toys – Exercise and play with humans and other dogs is essential for your dog’s health and happiness. CragDog sells many different types of tug and toss rope dog toys and a combination pack of all. These heavy-duty dog toys can withstand a great deal of play and can be found on our website.
Chuckit – For dogs who like to run and fetch, a long handled chuckit ball launcher increases the length you can throw providing more fun running and chasing for your dog. With the chuckit’s hands-free pick-up you avoid wet sloppy balls.
Dog Beds – Dogs need a comfy bed to snooze on just like you do, where they can relax in a spot that’s dedicated to them. Although we prefer to recommend purchases from small/local businesses, in this case we recommend dog beds from Costco. We find these are the best value.
Dog Sleeping Bags – When you take your dog along for camping, dogs like to curl up in their own sleeping bag. Although there are dog sleeping bags available for purchase, we recommend that you buy yourself a new bag and give your used bag to your dog. They won’t know the difference.
Musher’s Secret – To protect your dog’s paws, especially in the winter from the salt and chemicals on the street, we recommend Musher’s Secret. It is 100% natural food grade wax that is a breathable barrier for your dog’s paws. It can be used year-round for protection as needed.
The Parks Project -This final suggestion are gifts for humans from the Parks Project. A tote bag, sweatshirt or gift box from the Parks Project will support our National Parks. There are many gifts to choose from, including ones with your favorite National Park’s logo. National Parks are great places to explore with our pets.
Happy Holidays and Happy Trails everyone,
We have gathered here a list of our favorite free dog parks in the twin cities area of Minneapolis and St. Paul. All of the dog parks listed here are free. No seasonal passes or daily fees are required or collected.
All of these are off-leash parks! If you don’t get to walk your dogs off-leash often, make sure to check these out! You will have fun walking with your dog, or allowing them to run and socialize with other dogs. Make sure to check out each dog park’s website or Facebook page for more detailed information. (Information below is current as of October 2020.)
400 Arlington Avenue East
St. Paul, MN 55130
This popular St. Paul 5 acre off-leash park is fully fenced. With a wooded walking area and some hills, this is a great place for dogs to run. An open area has benches and picnic tables.
5750 Otter Lake Road
White Bear Township, MN 55110
This dog park is located adjacent to the Meeker Island Historic Lock and Dam site. The park is located along the river at the bottom of the bluff and can be accessed from the entrance along the Mississippi River Blvd trail. It features a dog run and a dog beach. There is no fence surrounding the park, which is bordered by the Mississippi River and the steep river bluffs.
2350 Upper Afton Road and 2357 Lower Afton Road (Two entrances)
Maplewood, MN 55119
With 35 acres, this is considered one of the best dog parks in the metro area. The entire area is fenced and there are miles of wooded trails with play areas. Lots of opportunities for swimming with two small ponds and one larger swimming pond that is fenced off.
6202 West 111th Street
Bloomington, MN 55438
This 25-acre site has a very large grassy area with plenty of green space. There are hilly walking areas and a separate fenced area with shade and a pond for dogs to cool off and swim.
59 Randolph Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55102
A seven acre park next to the river and under the High Bridge. This a great place for dogs to run as the area is completely enclosed. There is no water feature or wooded areas. It has a separated small dog and large dog area. Chairs and tables are available. Note, cannot be accessed from the High Bridge; it is accessed by taking Shepard Rd. to Randolph Ave.
486 N Mississippi River Blvd
St. Paul, MN 55104
This dog park is located adjacent to the Meeker Island Historic Lock and Dam site. The park is located along the river at the bottom of the bluff and can be accessed from the entrance along the Mississippi River Blvd trail. It features a dog run and a dog beach. There is no fence surrounding the park, which is bordered by the Mississippi River and the steep river bluffs.
6096 South 28th Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55450
This is a large open space near the airport with both wooded and grassy park areas. Large open fields for running. Few amenities but a favorite park for many. Watch the planes take off and land while you run with your dog.
5959 Lexington Ave N
Shoreview, MN 55126
With fencing surrounding its nearly 13 acres, there’s lots of room for dogs to run and play in an open field. A large circular walking path is a popular amenity for this neighborhood favorite.
13800 Pioneer
Trail
Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Available mid-March–December
Located next to the Staring Lake Archery Range, the 5.7 acres of fenced area offers spacious woods, an open area, and natural walking paths. This park closes after the first sufficient snow fall for Nordic skiing and reopens in the spring after snow thaw.
9475 Glendenning Road
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
WAG Farms Dog Park is a 14 acre, fully fenced park where dogs of all sizes can exercise and socialize while being off-leash. Area includes a variety of woodlands, grasslands and a pond. There is a fenced-in small dog area. A wonderful asset for area dog owners.
If you live in the Twin Cities, almost everywhere you go, dogs are required to be on leash. These parks allow your pup to run off leash and play with their pals. Take your pup to one of these dog parks, you won’t regret it!
Just like everything else, camping with dogs require careful planning and thought. We highlight here important preparation and planning to have a fun, stress-free, adventure.
You will need to understand the rules for the areas you plan to explore and where you plan to camp. Many national, state, and local parks and forests allow dogs, but some do not, and some have specific restrictions. Check the website for details. Also, check the details of your campsite and trail plans. The more you plan, the more you will avoid pitfalls and have an enjoyable time.
Pack plenty of food and treats – mostly just what your pet needs at home. Lightweight eating and drinking bowls make life easier for you.
Make sure you review availability of water for you and your dog. We usually plan a 1/2 gallon per dog each day and a gallon for each human. Make sure to check with your vet, to ensure you have enough fresh water for your dog. Review the website for the area you will be visiting. Also, check the details of your campsite and trail plans. An important consideration when camping is the proximity of water at the campsite and while you are hiking. If your pup does not have enough water, you won’t either, you will need to share.
For hiking, it’s best to choose trails close to streams or lakes. Keep in mind distance between water stops. If water stops are far apart, you may want to carry extra to ensure it is readily available whenever your pup is thirsty.
Bringing more than one leash is important for a number of reasons. First of all, there are parks that require your pet to be on leash at all times. Even for parks and forests where your dog can roam free, there will still be times when a leash is needed, especially when wild animals show up. And don’t forget rattlesnakes; dogs won’t understand what they may be getting themselves into.
In a strange environment, even the most disciplined dog may get out-of-hand. At CragDog, we, of course, are in the leash business and have many sturdy leashes for you to choose from.
If you plan a strenuous trip, covering many miles, know what your pet is capable of. You might want to have a training plan for your dog just as you may have for yourself. Consider scheduling a visit to your vet to make sure your dog can handle the trip, especially if you have any doubts about the health or capability of your pet.
Starting out, not all dogs do well at sleeping in a tent and may have trouble going in and out. You may want to practice before you are on the trail.
If you plan to hike in popular areas, your dog will need basic obedience training to avoid trouble and to keep all pets and wildlife safe. Know the rules for the trails you’re using, and whether there are other uses for the trails by, for example, bikes or horses.
Respect wildlife and other pets by giving them plenty of space. Do not let your dog chase other dogs or wildlife. It pays to go out of your way to be considerate of other users to avoid confrontations (with humans, pets, or wildlife).
Follow the age-old adage: leave no trace. Allow others to enjoy nature as you found it. Always pick up your dog’s waste and dispose of properly where indicated.
At your campsite and when taking breaks, make sure to clean up food crumbs, spilled treats, and packaging. And you don’t want to mistakenly leave behind your CragDog dog toys…
The whole point of hiking with dogs is to enjoy their company and have an adventure. Follow these guidelines to plan ahead, but always have Plan B in case of unforeseen events. The best trips are the ones that have unanticipated experiences; you can’t plan for everything. Take lots of pictures, stay safe, and enjoy the great outdoors. Your friends and family will be waiting to hear your stories when you return. And your best friend will become your even better friend.
Minnesotans are a proud people. We love the outdoors and love our communities. Here is a, ever evolving, list of Minnesota Based climbing companies. From climbing advocacy organizations to skin care companies our goal is to build a complete list of all things Minnesota Climbing. Know of a climbing related company not on this list? Send it our way and we’ll get them added!
Duluth Climbing Coalition: Dedicated to preserving access to Duluth’s diverse climbing resources and promoting quality climbing opportunities for enthusiasts of all disciplines.
Minnesota Climbers Association: Advocate access for climbers by encouraging responsible practices, promoting conservation and stewardship of private and publicly held lands, as well as fostering communication and awareness of the sport to the public.
Climb Duluth: Psyched Local climber, promoting climbing awareness in Duluth/Northern Minnesota.
NorthShore VertiGals: an inclusive group of women (cis and trans), trans people of all genders, and gender non-conforming climbers of all ages and levels located in Northern Minnesota and the Twin Ports.
Escape Climbing: Climbing holds made in Minnesota
Nicros: The OG of MN climbing.
Everlast Climbing: Committed partners in the quest to improve youth fitness with climbing walls and educational climbing programs
Kumiki Climbing: A differnt approach to climbing holds: Kumiki creates all their climbing walls, volumes, hand holds and flooring with artistry and precision.
Hold-On Skin Care: Organic Salve for Hands and Body
Granite Creek Climbing Collective: Apparel inspired by a love for local climbing
Vertical Endeavors: Bouldering, Top-Rope, Sport
Locations: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Duluth
Minnesota Climbing Cooperative: Bouldering
Location: Minneapolis
Minneapolis Bouldering Project: Bouldering
Location: Minneapolis
The A: Bouldering
Location: Minneapolis
Roca: Bouldering, Top-Rope, Sport
Location: Rochester
CragDog: We recycle climbing gear to make quality collars, leashes and toys for the dog community while giving back to the climbing community.
Crag: Slang for “climbing area”; a steep rugged cliff or rock face.
Dog: Slang for “best friend”; a domesticated canid, Canis familiaris, bred in many varieties. All of them, cute.
CragDog: Slang for “best friend at a climbing area”; A cute four-legged friend hanging out while you climb.
There are many types of CragDogs: big, small, young, old, loud, quiet, sleepy, energetic The list goes on and on. Heck, there are even crag cats. Knowing when and where to bring your CragDog is important.
If you take anything from this article, don’t let your dog ruin climbing for others. Don’t let climbing ruin your dog’s day by leaving them behind.
Our advice, go bouldering, bring two crashpads. One for climbing, and one for cragdog naps.
It’s a fact, dogs love Covid-19 quarantine. Here are five strategies for working from home with your dogs.
During the corona-virus pandemic, dogs get to spend all day, everyday, with their best friends. In our house, my wife and I have makeshift offices on different floors. Each has a dog bed (or guest bed), toys, and plenty of room to play with the pups. We’re making the best of quarantine, and our dogs love it. We hope you are enjoying your time with your CragDogs as much as we are! Toys get boring, it’s time to get your pup a new toy!
