The new year is here and with it, there are new adventures to be had. By now, many are thinking about fresh starts, new goals, and fun plans to look forward to. So what’s in store for you (and your dog) in 2026? Travel? Road trips? Exploring new parks? Maybe you’re hoping to put a concentrated effort into getting into the best shape of your life or just to find new trails with your dog alongside you.
Whatever your focus is, we’ll bet the overall plan is to get outside as much as possible all year. With your dog along for the ride of course! Stuck for ideas? Here’s a Wilderdog roundup.
1. Hike one new trail per month
Twelve months, twelve trails—minimum. Make it a goal to explore somewhere new every month, whether that’s a hidden local loop, a state park you’ve been meaning to visit, or a trail you’ve driven past a hundred times without stopping. New trails keep things interesting for both you and your dog: new smells, new terrain, new challenges. Start close to home and build outward, and keep a running list so you can look back at everywhere you went together by year’s end. Read up on some suggested items to pack here.
2. Teach your dog 5 new tricks
Your pup has already nailed “sit,” “paw,” “stay,” and “leave it.” But what about "spin", "speak", or fetching a beer from the fridge? You’ll definitely impress new friends around the campfire with these. A plastic baggie for training treats works fine, but we like to think this Treat Pouch makes training more fun.
3. Jump in at least one body of water per month
Lakes, rivers, alpine streams, the ocean, or even a post-hike dip in a cold creek—if it counts as water, it counts. This one is less about distance or difficulty and more about saying yes to the moment. Hot summer days make it easy, but the shoulder seasons are where the memories are made. Just be smart about conditions, currents, and temperatures, and make sure your dog is comfortable and safe before taking the plunge. Wilderdog pro tip - grab a Quick Dry Towel for this one!
4. Complete a 10 peaks challenge
Summit challenges are popular in trail running and hiking communities but don’t keep your furry little bestie out of the fun. This year, an attainable goal could be to make it to mountain tops together. (You choose the mountains, altitude, level of difficulty and number.) If this is new terrain, start with small, accessible mountains and increase intensity as the year moves on. When climbing peaks with your dog, keep in mind proper nutrition and hydration, and watch for things like overheating or paw lacerations. Don't forget to toss a set of booties in your pack!
5. Master your dog’s recall at distance
A solid recall is one of the most valuable skills your dog can have, especially outdoors. This year, go beyond “pretty good” and work toward a reliable recall even with distractions and distance. Start small in controlled environments, then gradually add space, movement, and excitement. The payoff is huge: more freedom on trail, more confidence as a handler, and safer adventures all around. Grab a 30’ long lead to get work your way up to distance, but still safely on a leash.
6. Plan a solo two-night backpacking trip
The only thing better than a full day outdoors is many days outdoors… back-to-back. So plan a backpacking trip for one of the long weekends this year. If you’re already an avid hiker and have camping experience, the logistics will fall into place easily. Whether you're doing a point-to-point or out-and-back, your camping adventure with just you and your dog to cuddle with coffee and a kick-ass view will become a core memory. Never been backpacking? After you spend the pre-requisite dollars to get all the gear, check out our beginner’s guide here.
7. Run a 5k for a cause
If running is already part of your routine, 2026 could be the year to head to the start line together and run an official race. From dog-specific races to charity fun runs, there are plenty of options. The best part about running a road race with a dog is the community of like-minded people and energy at the finish line.
8. Road trip to a national park
The U.S. is home to 63 national parks. How many have you been to? There’s so much to explore in our vast and beautiful country. Though we love the outdoors, most of us have not been to all 63. So pick a focus, be it desert, mountains, or grassy plains, and go for it! Be sure to read up on each National Parks dog policy before going. Here’s an older blog post we wrote about it.
9. More belly rubs
Not every bucket list item needs a trailhead. This year, put down the phone, ignore the notifications, and give your dog some serious face-time—scratch the ears, rub the belly, endure the snoring on your lap. After all the hikes, peaks, and races, this is the stuff your dog will really love… and probably judge you for not doing sooner.
