Breathtaking Trails at Our Fingertips

The Greater Greenville area is littered with hiking trails from the Foothills Trail of Oconee County, SC, to the sandy paths of the coastal Palmetto Trail.

The SHCA Working Pack Dog Program

The Siberian Husky Club of America offers two levels of Working Pack Dog (WPD) titles for owners who backpack with their dog a minimum mileage with set weight requirements . The first level of the WPD title requires a minimum of 40 miles, and includes two 10-mile minimum hikes. The second level, Working Pack Dog Excellent (WPDX), requires 80 recorded miles.

The Pack Dog program is open to all purebred Siberian Huskies registered with the American Kennel Club, Siberian Huskies registered through AKC Purebred Alternative Listings (PAL), and the AKC Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP). 

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Being Prepared

Never underestimate the speed at which a situation can change. Remember to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog and emergency supplies in case you become stranded. Be aware of the expected temperatures throughout the day. If the height is going to be over 80, it may be best to plan the adventure for another day.

Always leave at least two people with information on your planned route and expected time of return.

Finding the Right Trail

There is a plethora of amazing trail systems in the Greater Greenville area, but making the best choice of trail for you and your Siberian Husky is important.

When starting out, try easy trails with low mileage. Looped trails can be a good choice as they allow you test your stamina with an easy out if you become overwhelmed. Keep in mind looped trails do not count for WPD mileage!
 
You can find excellent websites for planning your hike. The South Carolina Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department runs  SCTrails.net with maps and information on the hundreds of trails in SC. For North Carolina trail systems, visit NCParks.gov, and find Georgia trails at AtlantaTrails.com.

Recommended Gear

To participate in the WPD Program, your dog must carry items and gear. There are Ten Essential Items that every hiker should carry regardless of the distance they plan to hike: 
  1. Navigation (map & compass)
  2. Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
  3. Insulation (extra clothing)
  4. Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
  5. First-aid supplies
  6. Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
  7. Repair kit and tools
  8. Nutrition (extra food)
  9. Hydration (extra water)
  10. Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)
Some essentials to include your dog are:
  1. Obedience training (basic commands)
  2. Dog Backpack (dog food, water)
  3. Dog Basic First-Aid Kit
  4. Extra Dog food and trail treats
  5. Water and water bowl
  6. Leash and or collar (min. 6ft. leash)
  7. Insect repellent
  8. ID tags, microchips, and picture identification. 
  9. Dog booties
  10. Compact roll of plastic bags and trowel

SHCGG Hiking Adventures