Meet Wren—The Heart and Paws of All Ways Adventure

If you’ve been on a hike with us, there’s a good chance you’ve met Wren. She’s our four-legged team member and a beloved part of the All Ways Adventure family. We adopted Wren as a puppy six years ago, and ever since, she has been growing into the perfect backcountry companion.

Adventure Training—One Paw at a Time

Her training has been deliberate and consistent from the very beginning. We’ve eased her into each new challenge rather than expecting her to be a perfect hiker, swimmer, or canyoneer on the first try. That same philosophy is how we guide our guests, providing enough of a challenge to build confidence, but never more than someone is ready for.

Wren’s First Backpacking Trip—Reflection Canyon

One of our favorite memories with Wren was her very first backpacking trip when she was just ten months old. It was during the early days of the COVID-19 shutdown. We were instructed to shelter in place, which in our case meant staying within Kane County. Fortunately, Kane County is an extraordinary place to explore, so we packed our bags and headed out to Reflection Canyon. (Yes, we guide this location. Ask us about it!)



Wren had just finished rattlesnake aversion training. On the hike in, she suddenly froze and alerted to something in the sand. It wasn’t a snake, but a lizard, and we were pretty impressed. The training seemed to have made an impression.

From Muck Hole to Mountain Storm—A Backcountry Baptism

Not long after that, we realized we had a bigger issue. Water was scarce, and Wren had just located the only visible source for miles: a swampy cow pie muck hole. Before we could stop her, she was in it, splashing around like it was a spa day. She emerged soaking wet and absolutely reeking, and very, very proud of herself. One thing was clear. She was not sleeping in our tent that night.

So we changed course in search of a real water source. The hike took us off the main route as we scanned for potholes deep enough to hold water. Despite recent rains, everything looked dry. We were starting to worry. Eventually, after a good amount of wandering, we came across two large potholes. One for filtering our drinking water, and one for washing the dog. Success.

It was COVID times, so after her "bath," we even rubbed her down with hand sanitizer. She was not amused. But she was at least slightly more tolerable, and we continued on toward camp.

Stormy Skies and One Brave Pup

We made it to the overlook in time to snap some photos of Reflection Canyon and pitched our tent just before a big storm rolled in. It was Wren’s very first night in a tent. At one point the wind flattened the tent completely over us. Thunder echoed across the canyon. Lightning lit up the sky. Through it all, Wren curled up against us and weathered the storm like a trooper. Not a single bark or whimper.

A New Day, A New Trail Dog

The next morning, we woke to a transformed landscape. Every single pothole was full to the brim. Swimming holes were everywhere. Drinking water was abundant. And Wren? She was splashing and leaping with joy, like she had been doing this her whole life.



That trip was just the beginning. Since then, Wren has hiked countless trails, run across miles of sand dunes, swum in icy creeks and canyon pools, and rolled gleefully in both grass and snow. She didn’t choose this life, but she has embraced it and adapted beautifully. We are proud of the way she shows up for each new adventure.

Want to Hike With Wren? Just Ask

Wren is available to join guided trips by request. If you’re a dog lover or simply want to share your day with one of the happiest trail dogs around, just let us know when you book. She will be thrilled to join you on the trail, and we’re sure you’ll end the day with muddy boots, great memories, and a new furry friend.