Allow me to introduce my newest pal, Viggo. He’s become a trusted friend and someone I can talk to without feeling judged. Viggo, regardless of his age, loves to hike, making him the perfect companion.

He’s a constant reminder of loyalty and friendship in its purest form. He also reminds me to stop every once in a while to enjoy the scenery. I’ve appreciated Viggo from the moment we first met.

However, I fell in love with him during our first hike together, and this is the story I’ll share with you now. It was a hot and sunny morning in June when Viggo invited me to go hiking in Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

After parking at the Horseshoe Trail parking lot, I gathered my camera equipment and Viggo grabbed his water and poop bags. In case you haven’t guessed, Viggo is a dog. More specifically, a handsome German shepherd.

It was 9 a.m., and the temperature was quickly rising. We agreed to hike the 3.6-mile roundtrip and do our best to stay hydrated. The Horseshoe Trail is well-shaded and follows a seasonal stream.

Wildflowers edged along the aspen-covered path add to the beauty of the hike. You can also reach a trail to the Greenfield and Frazer Meadow backcountry camping areas a mile from the parking lot, and .3 miles further, a spur trail leads you to the Rim Meadow backcountry camping area.

Horseshoe Trail also connects to Mule Deer Trail, the longest trail in the park at nearly nine miles. Viggo and I stopped several times for a drink of water and a dip in the stream. Well, Viggo went for a dip, and I took photos.

After gaining 927 feet in elevation, we decided it was too hot and time to return to our vehicles. No, Viggo didn’t drive, but he had a car. We made our way back down, grateful for the comforts of the Rocky Mountains summer breeze.

Canines are allowed on trails at Golden Gate Canyon State Park but must remain on a leash at all times, and droppings are to be picked up immediately. Leaving poop bags on trails puts other animals at risk. Find out more about this concern here: https://longhaultrekkers.com/disposeof dog-poop/.

Back at the parking lot, I squeezed Viggo and kissed him goodbye. I watched him drive away with my other trusted friend, Amy Hager. Unfortunately, Viggo isn’t my dog, but we have a special connection. Thanks for the hike, Viggo!

Golden Gate Canyon State Park is located at 92 Crawford Gulch Road off Highway 46. To learn more about hiking at the park, visit https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/ GoldenGateCanyon/Pages/Trails.aspx or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoParksWildlife/.