Relaxing Run

We received quite a bit of snow out here but it didn't affect the existing trails too much. It sure did make a difference to our new trails though. We broke through a short section to complete our new training loop and I lost Juno a few times in the drifts!

She was a trooper and kept at it with Hermes by her side. I think Hermes is enjoying the trail breaking more than Juno and thrives being up front. I pulled him back to swing to give him a break for about a mile but he really didn't seem to need it. He acted a bit confused to be behind other dogs so I put him back up in lead where he can continue to polish his leader skills.

Gaea had a great run in harness and was almost able to be in the team the whole time. I took her out when the trail was getting tough but on the way back we had a nice flat stretch that she could easily work through... and work she did! She pulled hard and tried to get the team to go before I gave the command. Pups always seem to want to do that but with a bit of training they soon get the idea of when to stop and when to go.

The temperature was the only hang up for this trip. At +30 everyone was feeling the heat, myself included, their speed reflected that right from the start. I slowed them down making sure they kept a steady pace and took a short cut to our break through trail so we could get our work done quickly then back home before they were too tired or overheated.

At one point we came upon a dead end and I let every one loose, except for two (Ichabod and Laya), so I could scout around for a path. All the pups romped and played in a totally stress free environment without care of traps or other dangers. These new trails are so isolated that its clear there have been no recreational activity in years. Many of the trails are still there and with tree growth being so slow in Alaska its easy to break them open again.

I was really pleased to see every one continue the routine of hook up when we were ready to go. Just as they are at the truck, once they are harnessed they come to the line when they are called. At the truck I have a harder time getting some to come if they are engaged in play. Out on the trail there seems to be a different vibe. When its time to get back to work they come right up to their place in the team and are eager to get hooked back in. Its almost as if they are done exploring that section of the forest and want to get back into the team to move on to the next adventure.

One of our new trails, isolated, peaceful and only a sled width wide.
This is well worth all our hard work!


A main trail, notice the difference in width. This path is used by many types of people but mostly snowmachines.
The old relic on the right is why this trail is appropriately called the GMC.


Remus delights in all the new snow while Hera (laying next to him) tolerates his exuberant behavior!

The mighty wild land salmon stalks our team and watches from a distance! : )

Salmon did well this trip out but quickly got tired about half way through. Her ability at this stage of her life may have to be limited to short runs only. It will be sad to retire her but she can still play with us in the fall when we start our short training runs.

Total miles: 15
Temperature: +30, lots of trail breaking