Hikers rehydrate at the mobile kiosk operated by the American River Parkway Foundation at William B. Pond Park. Volunteers Darcie Garcia (left) and Ariane Lyons attend customers.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - For man or beast, a long walkie deserves a long drink. 

As temperatures recently reached triple-digits, the American River Parkway Foundation came to the aid of parched park users. A mobile kiosk now offers refreshment at William B. Pond Park, Carmichael.

The “Parkway Pick-Me-Up” cart is also a fundraiser for the non-profit that organizes cleanups and educational programs on the Parkway.

“We want the Parkway to be a community hub,” said foundation staffer Julia Cassill. “Having refreshments here is another reason for people to enjoy our beautiful trails. You don’t need to visit Tahoe to see nature’s beauty. It’s right here. And now, you can take a coffee break during your walk or bike ride.”

“People ask us why it took so long to come up with the idea,” Cassill continued. “Raising the funds and getting permits from the County took time.” Purchased for more than $10,000, the eye-catching vehicle is a Rolls Royce of carts. Set in a natural wood counter, a battery-run refrigerator keeps beverages chilled. 

At closing time, volunteers wheel the whole caboodle back into ARPF's building. Located near the river end of Arden Way, the Foundation headquarters provides a center for more than 5,000 Parkway volunteers. 

From their energetic ranks, ladies in striped aprons serve refreshment. Inventory includes hot or iced coffee ($4); tea and lemonade ($3); water ($2). Freshly-baked cookies are $3. A “puppy cup” for Fido runs a buck. Tee shirts and souvenirs are also available. An adjacent garden and picnic tables accommodate sit-down patrons.

“The project has been a success since the start,” reported volunteer Darcie Garcia. “Some mornings, more than 20 people stop by in an hour. It’s also an opportunity for us to tell visitors about ARPF work. Many customers make donations on top of their bill.”

Volunteers hope to roll out the barrow year-round. Supporters seem happy to stand in line. “They discuss what they’ve seen on the trail and admire each other’s dogs,” said Garcia. “They tell us how much they appreciate our being here.

“The dogs like us, too. In fact, they’re among our best customers.”

Cart business hours are between 9 a.m. and noon, on weekdays. To volunteer for ARPF projects including cart assistance, email [email protected].