It's summer time, it's hot... let's go somewhere we can let the dogs off leash and let them get good and wet!

If your dog likes water and you like a little adventure, this will be a fun hike for you.

This is a fairly flat, though rugged, hike along a beautiful, remote mountain stream called Ramsey's Draft. The dogs will be able to run and play in the water at will. Owners are more than welcome to also get a little wet!

We will be hiking directly up the stream for a good portion of the hike rather than on the trail. Expect that there will be lots of wet, slippery rocks and please wear footwear with good tread. Shoes that are meshy and drain well with good support are ideal. Running shoes (anything but goretex or waterproof fabric, waterproof shoes act like buckets when you submerge them in water!) are much better than pool shoes because you'll want cushion against rocks.

On the ballot for today...
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Trail Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 4.8-miles
Location: Near Staunton, VA, approx. 2.5-hrs from Fairfax County
When: Saturday, June 27th - 11:00AM
Difficulty: Medium (see our Trail Rating System for more details)
Hiking Time: 3.5-hours (lots of time to splash and play!)
Restrictions: No leashes required in the national forest, but you must carry one with you at all times and you must use one at the trailhead, around vehicles and around picnic areas
What to Bring: Snacks, shoes you don't mind getting wet that preferably drain and dry well with good grip and support, poo bags, drinking water and a towel for the ride home
Weather: Cancel for thunder and lightning, click here for forecast

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Directions: http://www.google.com...
From Staunton: Take US-250 west. From the village of Churchville, it's 15.4-miles to the Mountain House Picnic Area and the trailhead. Turn right into the picnic area and drive past the bathroom. After crossing a concrete spillway, look on the right for parking.

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Photo by: johnmiller613