?Bark Ranger? Canine Trail Steward

Catoctin Mountain Park’s trail system is one of its most valued and utilized resources. Park staff continually work to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable, safe trail experience.  “Bark Rangers” and their owners volunteer to hike and monitor the trails as a key part of our trail maintenance efforts. We count on our Trail Stewards and their Bark Ranger friends to observe trail conditions and report any changes to Visitor Center (VC) staff. Just as importantly, dogs and their owners help ensure that visitors understand Park rules and engage in only safe trail activities. Bark Rangers will be equipped with Volunteer Bark Ranger bandana.

Responsibilities

• Walk multiple miles of Park trails during each rove
• Make contact with visitors to address any concerns
• Demonstrate and remind visitors of proper park dog etiquette (i.e. walking your Bark Ranger on a leash, keeping your Bark Ranger hydrated, packing out waste etc.)
• Inform the VC staff of any major trail problems or concerns, and/or fill out a Trail Condition Report form
• Use a Park radio to report any emergencies to the Duty Ranger

Qualifications

• Pet and Owner comfortable hiking for extended time periods (2+ hours), often on uneven ground
• Ability to own and use adequate hiking/pet equipment
• Provide own dog, water bowl, leash and all other related pet gear
• Willingness to engage with Park visitors and VC staff