THURSDAY DOG HIKE on AL FOSTER TRAIL

OUR EVERY THURSDAY HIKE IN WINTER FOR 12 YEARS!

A very scenic, easy and level gravel trail that follows the Meramec River on one side and towering bluffs on the other. Good for beginners.

We will start at the AF trailhead on the Meramec River and usually walk to Sherman Beach (2.5 miles) and back, for a total of 5 miles. Not a hill to be had, it's completely level. We might detour onto Zombie Road sometimes, but mileage and terrain will be the same.

PACE OF HIKE: We hike at about 2.5 mph. This is not a race, slow down and enjoy this beautiful trail. We stop whenever necessary to water dogs and goof off.

Bring water for your dog and yourself.

FOOTWEAR: Any good walking shoe is okay in dry weather. A few puddles in gravel if it's been raining. In snow/ice, wear boots with good treads and maybe Yaktrax.

We will stop at Sherman Beach for a little doggie swim in the river to cool the pups, and let them play off leash. Be prepared for this. You must be able to control your dog, and your dog cannot be aggressive in any way....or keep the leash on. If you prefer to keep your dog leashed, you might want to bring a longer leash so they can wade out into river.

Porta potty at parking lot.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:

Use meetup mapping to get to the park. Basically, Hwy 109 to Old State Road (there is a stoplight). After you turn onto Old State, you will immediately turn right onto Washington (becomes Grand) and follow it.

ONCE INSIDE THE PARK, follow the road and park at the last parking lot before the mini RR tracks. It's the 3rd parking lot.