WATERVILLE VALLEY, N.H. -- Climbing New Hampshire's 48 4,000-foot peaks sounds like a monumental task, especially during the winter. But a Vermont man is hoping to accomplish the feat -- with the help of his dog.
Kevin Rooney and his dog, Brutus, will complete their task if they climb Cannon Mountain on Sunday. Wednesday, the two were climbing Mount Tecumseh, peak No. 46.
"As soon as I put on the Polypro, he knows we're going hiking," Rooney said.
Both Rooney and Brutus are members of the Appalachian Mountain Club's 4,000-Footer Club, meaning that they've already climbed the state's 48 peaks that are at least that tall. But they haven't yet done them all in a single winter.
"There are less than 15 people who have actually hiked all 48 during the winter months, and this will very likely be the first dog," Rooney said.
The two are often joined by friends who have dubbed themselves the Brutus Brigade. Cath Goodwin packs treats for Brutus, bringing his favorite energy bar on the most recent hike.
"I've brought steak tips for him, brought chicken, roast pork -- anything like that is right up his alley, for sure," Goodwin said.
Many in the brigade said Brutus is a great hiking companion. He's been known to sniff out the best route and helps keep them motivated.
"And we do same for him," hiker Al Dwyer said. "In dicey situations, we all encourage him, and off he goes."
Rooney has documented every summit along the way. He said he's anxious to complete his feat this weekend.
"You love to reach that goal, but it will be bittersweet," he said. "It'll be sad to reach it, but a lot of fun."
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Dog Enjoys Hikes
