Summer is right around the corner which means it is time for a new set of Trail Dog Project Challenges. This year we have three different challenges for you and your dog to try out. Earn one, two, or all three badges!
Learn more about each badge and our summer challenge season below. ⬇️
Log your hikes inside Trail Dog Project.
Miles tracked during the Summer challenge season automatically count toward the challenge.
When you meet the requirements for each badge, they will automatically be awarded.
No manual tracking. No spreadsheets. Just miles with your dog.
June 1st – August 31st
Only miles logged within these dates count toward this season’s challenges.
Badge Type: Seasonal Mileage
Requirements: Log 200 miles during the summer
Overview: Get outside and enjoy that warm, summer air! The Dog Days of Summer are finally here and we are celebrating with a new mileage based badge.
Badge Type: Adventure Based
Requirements: Go on at least two overnight trips this summer
Overview: Are you an avid camper, seasoned backpacker, or looking to spend your first night out under the stars? Then this one's for you!
We are awarding badges to Project members who spend at least two nights outdoors this summer in the course of your adventures. Both car camping and backpacking (carrying your overnight gear on a hike) count. Just check the "Overnight?" box on the Log a Hike page each time you participate.
Badge Type: Adventure Based
Requirements: Hike to the summit of a mountain at least once this summer
Overview: Looking to nab your first 14er? Or already experienced at bagging 4,000 footers? Look no further!
The Summit Club badge aims to help encourage and recognize teams who tackle a mountain based achievement this summer. This may include:
named peaks
high points on trails
USGS/map-marked summits
well-known “summit destinations”
A summit hike counts if it is the primary destination of the hike.
A digital badge added to your dog’s profile
Optional commemorative patch and/or sticker
The satisfaction of knowing you showed up consistently for your dog
Whether you hit the goal early or sneak across the finish line at the last minute, it all counts.
Seasonal challenges aren’t about competition. They’re about rhythm.
Summer is the main hiking season in many parts of North America.
The Spring Fling Challenge exists to give you:
A clear goal to work towards
A defined window
New types of adventures to work towards
Your dog doesn’t care how fast you go — just that you go.
Trail dogs who love long miles
Backyard explorers logging daily walks
Teams building endurance together
Anyone who wants a reason to get outside more often
There’s no leaderboard. No pressure. Just you and your dog working toward something together.
Log your miles. Watch them add up.
We’ll handle the rest.