A few weeks ago I was able to go hiking with my water loving puppy (who is two-ish now, so not really a puppy) on the South Fork of the Walla Walla River on the wonderful Umatilla National Forest.  I love the forest and have decided to try and see as much of it as possible this summer while I am home.  Since I have worked at the front desk of the Walla Walla Ranger District for so many years and have sent countless people out to these areas I thought it was fitting for me to finally get out there myself and really enjoy the trip instead of feeling rushed. 

Here is a peak at what the trail meanders next to. 

As you can see Hunter loved getting into the water and then shaking all that water onto me…which wasn’t all that bad as it was REALLY hot that day. 

This trail takes off just past Harris Park outside of Milton-Freewater and follows the river up the canyon.  It was a nice first hike for Hunter, all the new smells were overwhelming at times I am pretty sure.  Something to keep in mind is that there are motorcycles allowed on this trail as well as hikers, so when we heard one coming we just stepped off the trail into a visible place but out of their way.  Since they were bigger than us. 

I tried to get a self picture of both Hunter and I, but I am not that short and he kept running to a new smell every time I tried to crouch next to him.  So here is one of me, as you notice the trail does raise up quite a ways from the river in places.  But, then it falls back down next to the river which allowed great places for a quick snack and soak for Hunter.