September always feels like the perfect time to hike, especially in Mill Creek Canyon, Salt Lake City, where on odd-numbered days, dogs can roam off-leash. Over the past week, Godfrey and I took on two trails: on September 3rd we did the more strenuous Dog Lake hike, followed by a gentler hike along the Mount Olympus Pipeline Trail on September 5th. These hikes not only gave me the chance to soak in the beauty of the area but also some time to reflect on how I’ve adjusted to the challenges of both age and maintaining Godfrey’s health.
Hike to Dog Lake
We set off early in the morning. This trail, at over 7,500 feet, comes with a steep incline, and let me tell you, the thin air really hit me. My breathing was a little labored, and I had to remind myself to pace the hike properly—no need to sprint up the mountain, right? It was peaceful, though. The only sounds around were a few birds and the trickling of streams.
About halfway up, I had to stop and take stock. The hike was harder than expected, and it reminded me that I’m not as young as I used to be. I realized I forgot to put on the compression sleeves for my knees; they’ve been giving me trouble after hikes like this. But, I seemed to fair pretty well without them this time.
When we finally reached Dog Lake, Godfrey wasted no time splashing into the water. It was a rare treat for him, especially compared to our hikes back in North Georgia, where we don’t always find places for him to swim. This is the 4th or 4th time we’ve been back to this trail. Godfrey recognizes where the lake is as soon as we get to a certain point in the trail. He just takes off running for the water.
The hike back down was, much easier. Gravity was my friend, and Godfrey seemed happy to let the incline do most of the work. He’s been on glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, and it’s made a huge difference. His stiffness after these long hikes has noticeably reduced, and he doesn’t seem as sore as he used to. I’m grateful for that since he’s getting up there in years.
After such a demanding hike, I thought it’d be good to follow up with something lighter. That’s when I decided the Mount Olympus Pipeline Trail would be a perfect palette cleanser.
Hike to Mount Olympus Pipeline Trail
Two days later, on September 5th, Godfrey and I hit the pipeline trail, starting early again to avoid people, dogs, and the heat. Compared to the Dog Lake trail, this one was a breeze—mostly flat, a shorter hike, and much easier on both of us. The trail was hazy from the Idaho wildfires, but it was still beautiful in its own way. The sun was rising, casting a soft glow over the canyon.
This trail is popular, and I can see why. It’s ideal for people looking for an easy hike, and we encountered several joggers and trail runners. Godfrey was unfazed by it all, staying calm and friendly, even when a runner startled him. I’ve found that these off-leash hikes give him a lot of stimulation, and they’ve been great for keeping him active as he ages.
These two hikes—though very different—complement each other. The Dog Lake hike was challenging but rewarding, while the pipeline trail was easy and relaxing, a nice way to ease back into routine before heading home. Godfrey was surprisingly well behaved on both hikes. It was refreshing to see him ignore the dogs and keep moving on the trail. And thanks to those supplements keeping his joints in check he’s not crying and too stiff afterwards.
One last thought I want to share before wrapping up: I continue to believe in the value-for-value model for my podcast. If you’ve been listening, you know the drill. You can stream Bitcoin micro-payments while you listen or use PayPal for donations. It’s all about keeping things listener-supported without ads or sponsors dictating the content.
Thanks for tuning in and following along with our hikes. Until next time!
Dog Lake Hike
stats
Length: 4.54 mi.
Avg. Pace: 24:27
Elev. Gain: 1,243 ft
Calories: 1,016
Moving Time: 1:51:05
Total Time: 1:54:21
Pipeline Trail
Length: 3.21 mi.
Avg. Pace: 19:50
Elev. Gain: 581 ft
Calories: 583
Moving Time: 1:03:45
Total Time: 1:05:32
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