Dog Park at Dog Mountain: Celebrate Life With Your Pet

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Have you thought of visiting the dog park at Dog Mountain in St Johnsbury? I hope you do. It is one of the best places to both mourn the pets we’ve lost and experience great joy all on one incredibly dog-friendly mountain top in Vermont.

I was chatting with a fellow pet traveller about my cross-country road trip itinerary. When I mentioned, we’d be going through Vermont, they said, “Oh, I assume you will be visiting Dog Mountain.”
As an avid traveler with my dogs, you would think this place would be at the top of my list instead of a hidden gem, but now my curiosity was peaked. “Tell me more!”

Now that I have experienced it for myself, it surprises me that it is not more widely known. If it were, I think a lot more dog lovers across the US would be taking a journey to Dog Mountain. It is a wonderful mix of the sacred and the silly. As anyone with dogs has experienced first hand, that is life with our pups. It is a rare and beautiful thing to have a place that is dedicated to celebrate and play with our incredible furry friends, and to grieve for those that are no longer with us. Tens of Thousands of visitors visit this very special place every year, and I hope that you are able to make it too!

The founder of Dog Mountain, Stephen Huneck, created a space that evokes the whole range of experiences with our pets into one spectacular place.

Dog Memorial at Dog Mountain

Dog Chapel

Dog Chapel is a poignant tribute the dogs, cats, birds – basically any pet who left their mark on our lives. Crafted by artist Stephen Huneck for his own lab, Sally, this space in St. Johnsbury, VT allows visitors to pause and honor their departed pets.

The walls, layered with handwritten messages, photos, and mementos, are a testament to the genuine connections formed between humans and their dogs.

To participate and be part of the collective memory, we brought a painting of Thandi (created by Chris’ mother) and took a picture beneath the “friend” stained glass window. It felt right, honoring our pup who was, in every way, an exceptional friend. As we stood there, memories of Thandi reminded us how special we were to each other.

I also took a moment on one of the benches to sit in the collective love emanating from every note and picture, each telling a unique story of unconditional love. It’s evident how deeply pets impact our lives.

If you’re bringing along your furry friend, keep in mind the chapel’s small footprint. It’s best to have your pet on a short leash inside, ensuring the environment remains calm for all visitors. And while inside offers a space for reflection, outside presents ample opportunities for your pet to explore and play.

Celebrate Life With Your Pup at the Best Dog Park

I was so grateful for a time to remember our terrier who is no longer with us. However, we have two dogs who are still very much alive. The chapel wasn’t nearly as interesting to them as all the other things you could do. So, I had to wipe my tears and blow my nose before heading back outside where my emotions shifted to joy and laughter at how much fun all the dogs were having.

Off-leash Grass Dog Hill

At the top of Dog Mountain, there’s a wide open grassy knoll that is a dog park like you’ve never experienced before. This area is a haven where dogs can run around leash-free, chase balls, play with others, etc. I saw a miniature poodle just tear down a hill top speed having the time of his life.

The open space, combined with a backdrop of forested hills and a few rustic building scattered about, makes it a picturesque spot for you to enjoy while Fido is playing.

This area is not fenced, but the roads and parking lots are not particularly close, so as long as your dog has decent recall or does not have a tendency to run away, you won’t have to worry about cars.

Off-Leash Ponds in the Dog Park

Adjacent to the sprawling grassy area, there’s a pond roughly the size of an Olympic swimming pool. It’s a tad on the murky side, but that didn’t deter several labradors from diving in and reveling in every splash. Scattered across the water, you’ll notice a multitude of tennis balls bobbing about, leftovers from many games of fetch.

Quick tip: If your pup is a fan of water and swimming, remember to pack a towel. You’ll be grateful when it’s time to hop back in the car.

Fenced Dog Park

You might be wondering, is Dog Mountain fenced in? The mountain as a whole is not. However, at the very top of the hill, just beyond the expansive grass play area, you’ll find a secure fenced-in canine play area.

This isn’t just any dog park; it boasts agility equipment to challenge your pup, and a treasure chest filled with dog toys and ropes for endless fun.

There’s no distinct section for the small and big breeds on this mountain, it’s worth noting that during our visit, this wasn’t the hotspot where most of the dogs were playing. However, if your pet’s recall isn’t quite up to snuff, especially around bustling off-leash areas, this enclosed space might just be your best bet to ensure they don’t go on unscheduled adventures.

Hiking Trails

You’ll find a variety of trails both two-legged and four-legged hikers enjoy. Some dogs, like my border terrier, thrive on the structure of a trail. What’s great is the mix of manicured grassy paths surrounded with natural terrains.

Picture walking alongside your pup, dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, making the summer warmth more bearable. As you stroll, don’t be surprised if the temptation of picking a few blackberries gets too strong. After all, who doesn’t love a spontaneous trail snack?

The trail to the summit is about 3 miles round trip. It’s the perfect blend of challenge and reward, especially if you are lucky enough to see the fall colors.

Quick tip: once your adventure wraps up, give your pet a thorough check for ticks— they’re known to frequent the area.

Experience the Change of Seasons

Winter at Dog Mountain: Open throughout the colder months, Dog Mountain becomes a winter wonderland for those looking to enjoy some snow-time fun. Skiing and snowshoeing with dogs? Absolutely! And for the sociable pups, it’s a chance to play and mingle, especially when the weather might otherwise keep them indoors.

Summer Vibes: Summer brings the buzz to Dog Mountain with various events, parties, and music series. It’s the peak season for fun! And when the sun’s out, the ponds offer a cool splash for dogs wanting to beat the heat

Fall Adventures: The cool fall season offers a refreshing backdrop of changing leaves, making every walk or playtime a picturesque experience. It’s simply a great time for you and your pet to explore and enjoy the mountain’s beauty.

Dog Parties Are the Most Fun at Dog Mountain

On our visit, we landed right in the middle of one of their party days, making the atmosphere vey lively. Want to join the fun next time? Always a good idea to check out the event schedule.

If you’re new to the dog party scene, you’re in for a treat. Not only were there classic fair type activities like live bands, face painting, tarot readings, and, of course, hot dogs, but Dog Mountain went a step further. Highlighting the day were unique canine events like a pie-eating contest and a human-dog look-alike competition. And the best part? No entrance fee!

Despite the rain when we visited, the turnout was impressive. It wasn’t just the locals enjoying the festivities but also enthusiastic visitors from places as distant as San Diego, California.

What Kind of Dogs Should Go to Dog Mountain?

A prominent sign at Dog Mountain proclaims, “Welcome all creeds, all breeds. No dogmas allowed.” While this inclusive spirit is heartwarming, it’s crucial to assess if Dog Mountain is a fit for your particular pup. As an off-leash paradise, it attracts tons of dogs, making it a bustling hotspot, especially during special events. Given its popularity, here are a few pointers to consider before your visit:

• Recall Skills: If your dog’s recall isn’t top-notch, sticking to the fenced area might be your best bet.
• Reactivity: For dogs that show reactivity towards other dogs or people, it’s advisable to not go or at least avoid peak times. You might consider visiting with the guidance of a professional trainer.
• Overstimulation: With the hubbub and activities, even our Denver become easily distracted. We noticed him struggling to focus with everything that was going on and he didn’t respond to even very basic commands.
• Size Matters: Owners of small breeds should gauge their dog’s comfort level around larger breeds. There aren’t separate zones based on size.
• Noise Sensitivity: On our trip, we noticed the distant sound of target practice. If your dog is startled by loud noises, it’s something to be mindful of. The last thing you’d want is a nervous or scared pet running off.

In essence, while Dog Mountain is a haven for many, it’s essential to understand your dog’s temperament and needs to ensure a great experience for both of you. Always prioritize your pet’s well-being and comfort.

Stephen Huneck: The Tragic Story of the Man Who Made Dog Mountain Possible

Stephen Huneck was an artist who wrote beloved children’s books with a labrador as the central character. He also had a unique vision to create a space where people and their dogs could experience joy and peace. This vision came to life in Vermont’s Dog Mountain, a sprawling landscape complete with trails, ponds, and the notable Dog Chapel making it a special place for pet lovers.

However, the journey wasn’t easy for Huneck. He faced personal and financial challenges that ultimately led to death by suicide in 2010.

But his impact endures; Dog Mountain continues to be a go-to destination for those looking to celebrate the bond between humans and dogs. It’s a testament to Huneck’s dedication and love for animals, offering a place for both reflection and fun outdoor activities.

Dog Mountain Logistics

How to Get to Dog Mountain

Dog Mountain is located in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, a charming town that’s a scenic drive just around 3 hours away from major cities like Boston and Montreal. To get there, you can take Interstate 91, exiting at St. Johnsbury and following the signs to the mountain. Once you arrive, you’ll find ample parking

Opening Schedule

Dog Mountain is open year-round, offering a different experience each season, from the vibrant foliage in the fall to the snow-covered trails in winter. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk, giving you plenty of time to explore with your furry friend.

However, it’s worth noting that the visitor center and gift shop have specific hours, usually from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., so you might want to plan your visit accordingly if you’re interested in some Dog Mountain memorabilia.

Admissions

Visiting Dog Mountain won’t cost you an entry fee, but there is a suggested donation for day visitors as well as an option for an annual membership contribution. These donations can be left inside the chapel or the store. You can make electronic donations online.

You might find yourself spending a bit on unique souvenirs from the gift shop. So, even though the entry is free, don’t be surprised if you leave with your pocketbook a little lighter.

The Gift Shop

Make a Weekend of It: Dog-friendly Vermont

If you’re planning a trip to Dog Mountain, consider making a weekend of it in dog-friendly Vermont. The state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and their pets, with scenic hiking trails, lakes, and charming small towns. For a unique experience, try your hand at disc golf at the iconic Smugglers’ Notch or take a picturesque tour of Vermont’s iconic covered bridges. Both activities offer a blend of fun and Vermont’s natural beauty, making them perfect additions to your itinerary.

Final Thoughts:

Our visit to Dog Mountain was a rollercoaster of emotions, from the poignant moments in the Dog Chapel remembering our beloved Thandi (wow do we miss her!) to the sheer joy of watching our current dogs revel in the open spaces of the Dog Park.

This place is more than just a destination; it’s a tribute to every stage of life with our furry companions. If you haven’t yet made the pilgrimage to this Vermont haven, I can’t recommend it enough.

Whether you’re honoring a pet who has crossed the rainbow bridge or making new memories with your current pup, Dog Mountain offers a unique space to celebrate the complex, beautiful relationship we have with our dogs.