POP UP ADVENTURE: Hike and Picnic at Franklin Falls Dam with Alyssa LaFoe

ABOUT THE EVENT:
Join Golden Dog for a scenic and refreshing adventure at Franklin Falls Dam in Franklin, NH, hosted by Alyssa LaFoe of Basil’s Boutique, one of our trusted Local Adventure Guides.*

This 3.5-mile moderate hike will take you through a mix of wide-open trails and wooded paths, offering a safe and flexible experience for both social and reactive dogs. Alyssa knows these trails inside and out—including a quiet, off-the-beaten-path swimming spot where pups can take a dip and cool off.

Following the hike and swim, we’ll gather for a bring-your-own picnic in the open fields near the parking area. Spread out a blanket, relax with fellow dog lovers, and let your pup rest and socialize.

To top off the experience, we’ll head to Milltuck Farm & Creamery—a local, dog-friendly favorite just five minutes away. Top off a fun outing with a sweet treat for you and your pup.

You and your dog will benefit from:

• Enrichment through hiking and swimming: Dogs experience new sights, smells, and sounds on the trail, plus the opportunity to cool off in a quiet, dog-friendly swimming spot.
• Safe socialization for all dogs: Designed for both social and reactive dogs, this event provides structured, respectful opportunities to be around other dogs and people.
• Healthy physical activity: The 3.5-mile moderate hike offers a great workout for dogs and their handlers, supporting overall fitness and well-being.
• Relaxed bonding time: The post-walk picnic and ice cream stop offer time to unwind, connect with others, and enjoy quality time with your dog.
• Guidance from a local expert: With Alyssa LaFoe leading the adventure, participants benefit from her deep knowledge of the area and experience handling dogs of all temperaments.

*The Local Adventure Guide Program is a new initiative by Golden Dog Adventure Co. that partners with trusted community members to lead dog-friendly walks and experiences in their local area. These guides are dog professionals or passionate pet guardians who know their trails inside and out and are committed to creating safe, welcoming, and enriching experiences for dogs of all temperaments. The program allows participants to explore new locations with confidence while supporting small businesses and building stronger local connections.

IS THIS EVENT GOOD FOR REACTIVE DOGS?
Reactive Dog Level 2-2.5. See our Comfort Chart for explanation. This is a popular place for people and their dogs, but there are open fields and wider trails with good site lines for the dogs. We will cross into a wooded area with trails a bit more narrow. There are places to step off trail when needed, and some wider sections of trail that allow for parallel walking or space between dogs. Alyssa knows these trails well and will guide us accordingly to ensure the comfort of all dogs and people joining us. 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 Franklin Falls Dam is rated as Level 1.5-2 Moderate. See an explanation of our Trail Rating System.

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

• Golden Dog Members – $25/person (Your special pricing will be reflected in the CART.)
• Not-yet members – $35/person
• Purchase a 10-walk punch card for discounted events (good for Pack and Pop Up Adventures)
• If you are paying for this event with a punch card or free pass, email rsvp@goldendognh.com with “RSVP Pop Up Adventure: Hike & Picnic at Franklin Falls Dam” in the subject line. Thank you!

Full refund issued if cancellation received 48 hours prior to event start time, otherwise no refund if canceled after. 

MEET YOUR GUIDE: ALYSSA LAFOE
Alyssa LaFoe is the Owner and Founder of Basil’s Boutique Bandanas and Pet Sitting Services, LLC, which she launched in 2024 alongside her wife, Cait. Through her business, Alyssa offers loving in-home boarding, daycare, drop-in visits, and walking services tailored to dogs who need personalized attention and a peaceful alternative to traditional kennels.

Her small, enrichment-focused program provides 24/7 care in a home environment where dogs are treated like family—not kept in crates or runs. Pups lounge on couches, nap on beds, and enjoy a calm and comforting setting.

Recognizing the need for safe spaces for reactive dogs, Alyssa created a one-of-a-kind “mini apartment” designed specifically for dogs who need their own space away from others. Outfitted with a human bed, couches, dog beds, and plenty of comfort, this space offers a quiet retreat and individualized care. Supporting reactive dogs and their families is a top priority for Alyssa and Cait.

To enhance each dog’s stay, Alyssa also offers a variety of fun “add-on” services, including nature park walks, pup cups, public outings, birthday “pawties,” and more.

When she’s not caring for dogs, Alyssa enjoys hiking, horseback riding, and spending time with her own pups—Basil, Goose, and Scout. She is excited to welcome you to Franklin Falls Dam, one of her favorite places to explore, and to share her passion for dogs, hiking, and the great outdoors.

DIRECTIONS/PARKING:
Franklin, NH – all the details will be emailed 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 announced in the Event section of the Facebook Group and on this Calendar page. Participants will also receive a cancellation email.

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