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Become a B.A.R.K Ranger!

Composit image of a large dog wearing a park ranger hat, in front of a historic map. Two wooded badges are next to the dog. One reads bark ranger and the other purrk ranger.
B.A.R.K Ranger Dempsey loves Visiting Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail!

NPS

With over 680 miles of land and water trails and hundreds of historical sites, there is no shortage of ways to explore the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail. We encourage you to walk, hike, run, bike, drive, or paddle the same routes the American and French soldiers took in 1780 - 1782.

Join these events to learn how to have a positive experience with your pet in unfamiliar environments. Learn the B.A.R.K. and P.U.R.R.K principles so you and your pet can have a safe and fun visit anytime you go!

B.A.R.K. stands for:

  • Bag your pet’s waste

  • Always leash your pet

  • Respect wildlife

  • Know where you can go

P.U.R.R.K stands for:

  • Pick up your pet's waste

  • Understand where you can go

  • Respect wildlife

  • Remain on trail

  • Know where you can go

Bonus tip: Plan for the heat!

If you're hot, they're hot! Be sure to bring enough water for both you and your pet. And remember, sidewalks can be hot, so test the pavement with the back of your hand to see if it's too hot for your pet's paws.

Cat looking up
Shrimpy worked hard to earn her badge!

NPS

Where to Get Your Badge

B.A.R.K Ranger and P.U.R.R.K. Ranger badges are only available at select Washington-Rochambeau Trail events. Check out event calendar to see where you can find us. B.A.R.K. and P.U.R.R.K Ranger badges are not available upon mail-in request.

Just because you haven't gotten your badge yet doesn't mean you can't practice the principles to be a good pet visiting parks!

Last updated: August 26, 2024