Where MadisonDogs Run Freeon River Paws Adventure Hikes
Your dog isn't built for four walls—they're built for adventure.We swap daycare chaos for private trails where dogs run free, explore nature, and come home the happiest version of themselves.Professional dog hiking near you!
Join our WaitlistWhy Our Dog Hikes Beat Traditional Daycare
Traditional daycare has its place, but some dogs need more—outdoor adventure that taps into their natural instincts. Instead of enclosed rooms and constant chaos, our hikes offer freedom to roam, explore, and bond in nature.
Here's why Madison area pet parents are choosing trails over daycare rooms:
Why Choose Adventure Hikes?
The happiest pack around.
What a River Paws Hike Looks Like
We make adventure easy. Our team picks up your pup from home, transports them to our private trails for 1-1.5 hours of off-leash exploration in small groups, and drops them back home—happy, tired, and fulfilled.
Adventure pickup in progress.
Convenient Pickup
We pick up your pup from home and transport them to our beautiful private trails, making the adventure seamless for busy pet parents.
Adventure starts with every wag.
Off-Leash Adventure
60-90 minutes of supervised fun in small groups (up to 6 dogs) exploring Madison's scenic trails with professional handlers ensuring safety.
The happiest pack around.
Happy Return
We drop them back off at home, happily tired and fulfilled from their adventure. Ready for cozy cuddles and well-deserved rest.
Flexible Adventure Schedule
We offer dog hikes Monday through Friday, with flexible times to fit your routine.
Available Days & Times
Adventure Days
Monday through Friday
Flexible morning & afternoon slots
Assessments On Hold
Currently at capacity
Join our waitlist to be notified when spots open!
Experience the Difference
Imagine a place where your dog can run without limits, sniff every trail, and just be a dog. That's what we built.
Freedom That Feels Natural
Off-leash adventures give your dog what they're wired for: running through woods, discovering new scents, and exploring at their own pace. It's not just exercise; it's the reset button that leaves them balanced and content.
- Running through woods
- Unleashing their wild side
- Safe, supervised space
Socialization Without Overwhelm
Small groups (4-6 dogs per handler) create the perfect environment for natural bonding. Dogs form genuine friendships while hiking together, learning trust and cooperation without the overwhelming dynamics of larger daycare groups.
- 4-6 dogs per handler
- Genuine friendships
- Builds confidence
Complete Mind & Body Engagement
Every hike brings fresh terrain to navigate, new scents to investigate, and varied challenges. This enrichment satisfies their deepest instincts, reducing anxiety, boredom, and destructive behaviors.
- Fresh terrain to navigate
- Reduces anxiety & boredom
- Meaningful stimulation
Perfect for Every Age
Not every dog loves the intensity of daycare. Older dogs, gentle souls, and pups who prefer to set their own pace find their stride on our trails. Whether spirited puppy or wise senior, they'll feel included and energized.
- Puppies to seniors welcome
- Set their own pace
- Inclusive environment
The Proof Is In The Tired, Happy Faces
Pet parents tell us their dogs come home peacefully exhausted, ready for cozy cuddles—exactly how nature intended.
See the adventures for yourself
Every hike tells a story.
100+ adventure photos in our gallery
Adventure Pricing
Simple, transparent pricing with multi-dog discounts for families with more than one pup.
Group Adventure Hikes
1 - 1.5 hours on-trail + transportation within 4-mile radius
Per Dog
Standard Rate
$45
Second Family Dog
Discounted Rate
$33.75
Private Hikes
Limited availability - your dogs only. 45 minutes on-trail.
Adventure Requirements
Rabies Vaccination
Current vaccination required
Distemper Vaccination
Up-to-date vaccination required
Bordetella Vaccination
Current vaccination required
Application Process
Behavior evaluation required for all hiking dogs
Good Recall
Dogs should respond to basic commands
Adventure Spirit
Love for outdoor exploration and meeting new friends
What Our Adventurers Say
Don't just take our word for it—these pups (and their people) speak for themselves.
Emily D.
Madison
“River Paws' hikes are amazing — my dog is exercised, socialized, and SO much happier.”
Jennifer M.
Waunakee
“The private trails are beautiful, and the staff are incredible. Best decision we ever made for our pup.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to See Your Dog This Happy?
Join our waitlist today and be the first to know when space opens for your pup to discover their wild side on Madison's most beautiful private trails.
Contact to Join WaitlistWhile you're here...
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