Fall in the Driftless Area is a season that begs to be explored, especially if you have a dog. The crisp air and vibrant fall colors create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re trekking through the woods, wandering through dog-friendly farms, or enjoying the charm of small-town businesses, there are endless activities for you and your canine companion.
As the owner of Rising Starr K9, I know firsthand how valuable these outings are—not just for fun but for strengthening the bond between you and your dog. Fall is a great time to work on key training skills while soaking in the beauty of this unique region. Let’s explore some of the top places to visit with your dog and a few training tips to ensure every adventure succeeds.
Scenic Hikes for You and Your Dog
The Driftless Area is famous for its rolling hills and stunning landscapes. These trails come alive in the fall with brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows.
Taking your dog on a hike is a great way to experience the scenery and a perfect opportunity to reinforce their training.
Dog-Friendly State Parks
One of my favorite spots is Perrot State Park (WI). With dog-friendly trails along the Mississippi River, it’s a peaceful setting to work on leash training. The excitement of the outdoors can cause some dogs to pull, so it’s a great place to practice commands like “heel” and “leave it.” Keep your dog’s attention on you, even when the wildlife tempts them.
Another must-see is Great River Bluff State Park (MN). With panoramic views, it’s a stunning place to work on recall. The open spaces provide an ideal environment to let your dog safely enjoy freedom on a long leash while practicing when called. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching your dog respond with excitement, racing back to you.
If you’re ready for more of a challenge, check out Yellow River State Forest (IA). The rugged trails provide an adventure for you and your dog, and it’s the perfect place to work on commands like “wait” as you tackle the steeper climbs.
Fun for Water-Loving Dogs
Even though the air might be more relaxed, some dogs still love a splash in the water. Lake Pepin, along the Wisconsin-Minnesota border, is a great spot for dogs that enjoy swimming or exploring along the shore. It’s also a fun place to combine training and play—toss a toy into shallow water and practice recall as your dog fetches it back.
Fall Fun at Orchards and Farms
Fall wouldn’t be complete without visiting an orchard or farm. Fortunately, the Driftless Area has plenty of farms that welcome dogs, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind when you head out for some autumn fun.
Dog-Friendly Orchards
If you’re in the Trempealeau, WI area, head to Ecker’s Apple Farm. You and your dog can wander through rows of apple trees, and it’s an excellent opportunity to work on leash manners. With so many tempting scents, it’s the perfect time to practice the “leave it” command, ensuring your dog stays focused.
Visit Ferguson’s Orchard (Galesville, WI) for even more fun. They offer apple picking, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes. Navigating a labyrinth with your dog is an exciting way to work on obedience. Commands like “sit” and “stay” become handy when other visitors or new distractions are around.
Farmer’s Markets: A Socialization Goldmine
Towns like Viroqua (WI) and La Crosse (WI) host vibrant fall farmer’s markets, many dog-friendly. These markets are a great place to work on socialization. With so many people and other dogs around, your dog will have plenty of chances to practice staying calm and focused. Use the “watch me” command to help keep your dog’s attention on you. High-value treats are necessary for reinforcing good behavior in this busy, stimulating environment.
Relax and Unwind: Dog-Friendly Breweries, Cafes, and Shops
After a full day of exploring, it’s time to relax. Fortunately, the Driftless Area is packed with dog-friendly businesses where you can kick back and enjoy some quality time with your dog.
Breweries and Restaurants that Welcome Dogs
Head to 608 Brewing Company (La Crosse, WI) for a laid-back afternoon. Their dog-friendly outdoor seating makes it a great place to work on getting your dog to stay calm in a busy setting. Commands like “settle” and “down” are invaluable here—teaching your dog to relax at your feet while you enjoy a drink builds patience and reinforces their training.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway, The Black Hawk Hotel (Dubuque, IA) is a boutique spot that welcomes dogs. It’s also an excellent environment to reinforce crate training or practice leash manners while navigating new settings like hotel lobbies and elevators.
For a farm-to-table dining experience, visit The Driftless Café (Viroqua, WI). Their outdoor seating is perfect for bringing your dog along. Here, you can practice “place” and “wait” commands while your dog lounges nearby as you enjoy a delicious meal.
Dog-Friendly Shops
If you love small-town shopping, places like New Glarus (WI) and Galena (IL) are filled with dog-friendly shops and boutiques. These smaller spaces are great for teaching your dog to walk calmly on a leash. Reward your dog for staying relaxed and focused in these new environments—shopping trips are a fantastic way to build confidence and social skills.
Training Tips for Fall Adventures
Fall is the ideal time to reinforce your dog’s training while enjoying all the season has to offer.
Leash Training
Whether walking through the woods or a market, loose-leash walking is one of the most essential skills to master. Make every outing an opportunity for training, and remember to reward your dog for staying close to you.
Recall Training
Wide-open trails and parks are perfect for practicing recall. Start with a long leash and gradually increase the level of distractions. When your dog comes bounding back to you, make sure it’s a rewarding experience.
Manners in Public
Visiting markets, cafes, and shops are great for reinforcing manners. Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “place” are essential in these environments. By reinforcing these behaviors, you’ll be able to take your dog anywhere with confidence.
Safety First: Fall Adventure Tips
While you’re out exploring, keep your dog safe.
Hydration
Even in cooler weather, dogs can become dehydrated. Always bring water along and monitor your dog’s energy levels.
Watch Out for Leaf Piles
As fun as leaf piles are, they can hide hazards like sharp objects or insects. If your dog gets too curious, be mindful and use the “leave it” command.
Gear Up
Consider reflective gear for your dog during early morning or late afternoon walks. Dog boots can help protect your dog’s paws on rough terrain.
Make This Fall Unforgettable with Your Dog
Fall in the Driftless Area is about enjoying outdoors and making memories with your dog. Whether you’re hiking, visiting an orchard, or relaxing at a café, every adventure is an opportunity to strengthen your bond and work on training. At Rising Starr K9, I firmly believe these outings can help build a better relationship with your dog.
If you’re looking for personalized training tips or more advice on making the most of your dog’s behavior during your adventures, check out my weekly blog on Rising Starr K9’s Facebook page. Whether it’s mastering leash manners or conquering public spaces, I’m here to help you every step of the way.
So, grab your leash, hit the trails, and explore all that fall offers! Your dog will thank you for the adventure, and you’ll return with a well-trained, happy pup by your side.
Enjoy,
By: Rick Pedersen_ RSK9
