Spectacular North Dakota Hikes Bring The Dog

Superb views await hikers who explore North Dakota using Susan Wefald's new book, Spectacular Day Hikes - Bring the Dog. Published this fall by the North Dakota Institute of Regional Studies at North Dakota State University, the book is written for both armchair and experienced hikers.

"I love hiking in North Dakota and I wanted to share my favorite hikes with others," Wefald says. The book features 50 hikes, organized by eight regions in the state. Each section features a full-color illustration by North Dakota artist Janet Flom, notes on area attractions, and detailed information about the hikes, which range from a one-half mile to 7 miles in length.

Wefald concludes her description of each hike with "notes" from Sandy, her 95-pound goldendoodle. A frequent companion on the trails, Wefald says, "Sandy is such a special part of my hiking experiences, I knew other dog owners would enjoy learning about all of the wonderful places they can go hiking with their dogs." Leashed dogs are allowed on 43 of the 50 hikes Wefald describes.

"My hope is that Spectacular North Dakota Hikes - Bring the Dog will encourage more people to get out and explore North Dakota on foot," Wefald says.

Wefald served as a North Dakota Public Service Commissioner for 16 years. She and her husband, Bob, have been hikers for more than 40 years. They make their home in Bismarck, where they can frequently be seen trekking local trails with Sandy.