SPECIAL EVENT: Live Free and Hike with Author Linda Magoon

ABOUT THE EVENT:
Get ready for a meaningful and refreshing experience that blends the healing power of nature, the joy of hiking with your dog, and the inspiration of personal transformation. Join Golden Dog in collaboration with Linda Magoon, author of Live Free and Hike: Finding Grace on 48 Summits, for a guided group hike and discussion at scenic Blue Job Mountain in Strafford, NH.

This 1.9-mile loop trail features a gradual incline to the 1,357-foot summit and is considered an easy mountain climb, perfect for beginner hikers and dogs who enjoy the outdoors. Along the way, you’ll connect with a supportive group of like-minded adventurers and take in beautiful views from the summit.

At the top, we’ll enjoy a bring-your-own picnic lunch while Linda leads a discussion about her journey hiking New Hampshire’s 48 highest peaks as a way to overcome personal challenges, set meaningful goals, and rediscover joy and purpose through time in nature.

Your registration includes:

• A guided hike with a community of dog lovers
• A signed copy of Linda’s book Live Free and Hike: Finding Grace on 48 Summits
• A summit picnic and author-led discussion on the mental health benefits of hiking
• Access to the April 21st Pop-Up Talk (7:00–8:00pm via Zoom) as a preview to this adventure. Can’t attend live? You’ll receive the recording to watch at your convenience

Benefits of attending:

• Discover how walking in nature reduces stress and anxiety
• Learn how goal-setting and affirmations can build confidence
• Gain insight into how the outdoors can support emotional healing
• Enjoy a safe, scenic hike with your dog
• Connect with others who share your love for nature and wellness

This event is perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves, their dog, and the natural world. Whether you’re at the beginning of your hiking journey or deep in your own process of transformation, this experience will leave you feeling uplifted and empowered.

IS THIS EVENT GOOD FOR REACTIVE DOGS?
Reactive Dog Level 2-3. See our Comfort Chart for explanation. This is an easier mountain with lots of room to spread out at the summit. If a nice day, it could be busy with other dogs and handlers. The trails can be narrow at times with fewer places to step off. If you have concerns or questions about if this event is right for your dog, please email woof@goldendognh.com for assistance.

TRAIL RATING:
The Trail is rated as Level 2.5-3 Moderate. See an explanation of our Trail Rating System.

COST: Tickets are limited to 15 people. Scroll down to purchase.

• Golden Dog Members – $35/person* (Your special pricing will be reflected in the CART.)
• Not-yet members – $50/person*
• *Does not include picnic lunch – please bring your own lunch (no glass bottles)

Full refund issued if cancellation received 72 hours prior to event start time, otherwise no refund if canceled after. 

ABOUT LINDA MAGOON
Linda is an environmentalist and outdoor enthusiast who rediscovered her passion for hiking in her later years after leaving an unhealthy marriage. With over 25 years of experience at the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, primarily in the Wetlands Bureau, she has extensive expertise in wetland identification and environmental conservation. A dedicated member of the Appalachian Mountain Club and the New Hampshire Writers’ Project, Linda enjoys writing and speaking about the mental and physical health benefits of spending time outdoors. Through her work, she inspires others to embrace the healing power of nature and the transformative experience of hiking.

For more information, visit LindaMagoon.com.

DIRECTIONS/PARKING:
The Blue Job trailhead is on First Crown Point Road in Strafford, NH (summit is in Farmington). First Crown Point Road is accessed off the north side of Rt. 202A, 3.9 miles east of Rt. 126 and 4.5 miles west of Rt. 202. The large parking area is 4.8 miles down this road, on the right. (Beware! This is NH and there is also Crown Point Road and Second Crown Point Road placed there especially to confuse out-of-towners by the ancient pioneers.) Additional details will follow 24 hours prior to the event.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE JOINING AN EVENT:
Please review our Club Guidelines, sign our Liability Waivers & Release Forms, and read our covid guidelines on our Events & Activities page.

CANCELLATIONS:
If weather or covid conditions make gathering and walking unsafe, the event will be cancelled and registered participants will receive a email cancellation notice. It will also be announced in the Event section of the Facebook Group and on this Calendar page.

QUESTIONS:
If you have questions, text/call (603) 815-2453 or email woof@goldendognh.com.