Introduction
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| petcare24h.org |
In the quaint St. Johnsbury, Vermont is a very special place called Dog Mountain. With some of the most beautiful trails, a welcoming environment, and the Dog Chapel, Dog Mountain is more than just a hiking destination: it's a place for dogs and their people, where dogs can roam freely, and love for our four-legged companions is present, wherever you look!
Whether you're planning a day trip to Vermont, searching for dog-friendly activities to do with your pooch, or just want to see a unique travel destination, Dog Mountain includes a combination of stunning scenery, community, and dogs. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know prior to your visit including the history of Dog Mountain, activities to experience, after you arrive and tips for maximizing your stay.
What is Dog Mountain?
Dog Mountain is a 150-acre, private mountaintop property located just outside St. Johnsbury, Vermont. It was built by the late artist Stephen Huneck and his wife Gwen, and it is a memorial dedicated to dogs and the relationships between humans and their canine companions.
Some key features are:
Dog Chapel - There is a hand-built chapel where people leave notes and photos and memorials to their deceased dogs.
Miles of trails - At Dog Mountain, trails are open for exploration year-round on foot, snowshoes, and dogs.
Off-Leash utopia - Dogs can run and be dogs on the property.
Seasonal dog parties - Fun gathering and community celebrations for dog lovers from all over the country.
The Story of Dog Mountain
The history of Dog Mountain is both warming and inspiring.
Dog Mountain started in 1995, established by artist Stephen Huneck, who built the idea that dogs are a source of healing, true joy, and unconditional love.
In 2000, Huneck opened Dog Chapel, "a place where people can celebrate the lives of their dogs as they pass through, and beyond, this life."
Today, Dog Chapel's walls hold thousands of notes, pictures and tributes to dogs that have come and gone—the living history of the love and connection that exist between dogs and humans.
The work of Dog Mountain continues to thrive as a nonprofit organization supported by donations, volunteers, and dog-loving visitors that continue to celebrate the legacy of Huneck.
Why Go To Dog Mountain?
1. Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails
The mountain contains trails to explore in fields, forests and rolling hills. Dogs are allowed off-leash, unlike many hiking destinations, allowing dogs to enjoy their surroundings as we do.
2. The Unique Dog Chapel
The chapel is one of the most unique markers in Vermont. Within it, there are hand-carved wooden dogs, stained glass windows of happy dogs, and thousands of memorials. Visitors are moved in memorable and significant ways.
3. Seasonal On-Site Events
Dog Mountain hosts seasonal Dog Parties in the summer and winter for dogs and their human guardians. Parties include agility games, swimming ponds, live music, and plenty of friendly dog-human interaction.
4. Picturesque Photography
With wide and expansive views of the Green Mountains and eclectic art on-site, Dog Mountain provides a dream photographers paradise.
5. Healing & Community
For the grieving pet parent, the chapel and community events provide solace and the encouragement of mutual love.
Activities at Dog Mountain
Hiking/Exploring
With over150 acres of land you and your dog can:
Wander through open meadows.
Walk along wooded trails.
Relax by beautiful ponds.
Visit the Dog Chapel
Whether you are looking for a moment of quiet reflection, wanting to leave a note for a dog who has passed, or simply admire the artistry.
Celebrate Dog Parties
If you are here during one of the dog parties, you can enjoy a fun filled visit with:
Swimming ponds for dogs.
Live music and local food trucks.
Fun contests and activities for dogs.
Visit the Art Gallery
Visit the on-site gallery filled with Stephen Huneck's whimsical dog-themed works of art. You can view and purchase prints??? sculpturos??? and books.
Tips for Visiting Dog Mountain
Bring Supplies: It’s good to bring snacks, water, waste bags, and a leash (for safety in busier areas).
Dress for the Weather: Vermont’s weather is unpredictable! Wear layers and don't forget to bring boots for mud season.
Be Respectful in the Chapel: Please keep in mind that many guests visit the chapel for emotional healing. Keep the noise level down.
Stay Nearby: St. Johnsbury has plenty of cozy inns/B&Bs, and dog-friendly accommodations you can stay at overnight.
Donate, if you can: Dog Mountain is run as a nonprofit organization. All donated money goes to the upkeep of this special place.
Fun Facts About Dog Mountain
Open to Everyone: The trails and the chapel are open and free to everyone, year-round.
Off Leash: There are very few places you can hike in the U.S. with the encouragement to be off-leash -- such as Dog Mountain.
From Near and Far: People visit Dog Mountain from all around the world just to leave memorials at the Dog Chapel.
Dog Mountain Throughout the Year
Spring: Colorful wildflowers start blooming and the trails are overflowing with color.
Summer: Ideal for picnics, BBQs, doggy parties, and swimming in the lake with your pup (off-leash, of course!).
Fall: Beautiful vibrant foliage creates outstanding hiking experiences.
Winter: A stunning blanket of snow creates gorgeous scenic trails for snow shoeing and a unique solitude.
Why Dog Lovers Call this the 'Heaven on Earth'
Dog Mountain is more than just a hiking spot, it is an opportunity:
"Pure joy for dogs."
"A spiritual retreat for man."
"A place where love never dies."
It can logically be concluded that Dog Mountain incorporates the natural beauty of Vermont along with the unconditional love of dogs and it will appeal to anyone traveling with (or who remembers) a dog.
Everything You See is from the Artist: Almost everything on the property, from the sculptures to the signs, has Stephen Huneck dog-oriented art in mind.
Summary:
Dog Mountain is no ordinary trailhead—it is a meaningful destination where dogs run free, memories grow, and community flourishes. Whether you plan to hike, remember your dog at the Dog Chapel, or just let your dog be a dog while they enjoy off-leash freedom and adventure, it is a mountaintop experience you won't forget.
If you go to Vermont, please include Dog Mountain—it will be a trip you'll be pleased to get with your four-legged friend and you will depart with full hearts and wagging tails.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Mountain
1. Do you have to pay to visit Dog Mountain?
You can visit the trails and Dog Chapel at Dog Mountain for free. We welcome donations to maintain the nonprofit.
2. Can dogs be off-leash at Dog Mountain?
Dogs are welcome to be off-leash throughout the 150 acres of Dog Mountain, as long as they are well-behaved, and under voice control.
3. What is the Dog Chapel?
The Dog Chapel is a hand built chapel by artist Stephen Huneck, and, visitors leave remembrances and tributes to their special dogs there.
4.When are Dog Parties?
Seasonal Dog Parties are part of Dog Mountain's natural cycle. We plan to host a summer Dog Party, and a winter or holiday Dog Party, with games, live music, and community involvement.
5. Where is Dog Mountain?
Dog Mountain is in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, half an hour from the New Hampshire border, and very easy to get to from Interstate 91.
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