Love your dog? Craving a new adventure in Michigan’s breathtaking forests? These trails are a game-changer. Perfect for paws, play, and exploration.
Imagine your furry friend’s tail wagging as you both discover scenic views and hidden spots. Ready to hit the best dog-friendly trails in Michigan’s state forests?
Your pup’s next favorite spot—and yours—are just a hike away!
1. Wetmore Landing – Marquette
The breathtaking views of Lake Superior make Wetmore Landing a must-visit spot. My dog couldn’t get enough of the crystal-clear water lapping against the rocky shore. The trail offers a perfect mix of beach access and forest hiking.
Wide paths allow plenty of room for your pup to explore without getting tangled in undergrowth. The moderate difficulty level works well for most dogs, though some rocky sections might challenge older pets.
Remember to bring waste bags and water, as facilities are minimal.
2. Sleepy Hollow State Park – Laingsburg
Gentle rolling terrain makes Sleepy Hollow perfect for dogs of all fitness levels. The park boasts 13 miles of trails winding through meadows, woodlands, and along the shores of Lake Ovid.
Summer visitors will appreciate the shaded paths that keep paws cool on hot days.
Park rules require dogs to stay on 6-foot leashes, but the wide paths provide plenty of room to roam. Water stations appear at regular intervals, though I always pack extra for those unexpected detours that dogs inevitably find!
3. Lumberman’s Monument – Oscoda
History meets natural beauty at this unique trail system. The monument honors Michigan’s logging heritage, while the surrounding paths offer spectacular views of the Au Sable River.
The main trail follows the high banks of the river, with several lookout points perfect for photos with your pup. Some sections feature stairs that may challenge smaller dogs, but the views are worth the effort.
Pack a lunch and use one of the many pet-friendly picnic areas.
4. Timbers Recreation Area – Traverse City
Unlike more crowded Traverse City destinations, Timbers offers a peaceful experience where you’ll often have whole sections to yourself. The main loop covers about 3 miles with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for most dogs.
Bird-watching opportunities abound here—though keep a close eye on dogs who might chase after wildlife! The park maintains a strict leash policy to protect the local ecosystem and ensure all visitors have a positive experience.
5. Provin Trails – Grand Rapids
Sand dunes in Grand Rapids? You bet! Provin Trails features unique sandy terrain that gives both you and your dog a workout. The loose sand had m y pup digging and playing like a puppy again, despite his eight years.
Towering pines create a cathedral-like atmosphere on these winding paths. The trail system isn’t extensive—only about 1.5 miles total—but the varied terrain makes it feel like a much bigger adventure.
Located just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, this urban oasis provides a quick nature escape when you don’t have time for a longer trip.
6. Maybury State Park – Northville
Maybury offers a fascinating glimpse into Michigan’s past while providing excellent dog-friendly trails. The wide, well-maintained paths wind through dense forests and open fields, giving dogs plenty of interesting scents to investigate.
The park features a working farm where dogs (on leash) can observe horses, sheep, and other animals from a respectful distance.
With over 20 miles of marked trails, you can choose shorter loops or connect several for an all-day adventure. The relatively flat terrain makes this an excellent choice for older dogs or those still building their hiking stamina.
7. Hogback Mountain – Marquette
Calling all adventurous dogs and their humans! Hogback Mountain offers a challenging climb that rewards you with absolutely stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.
The trail ascends over 600 feet through rocky terrain that requires some scrambling in places. Keep a shorter leash on your dog for these sections to ensure safety. Natural rock formations create perfect rest stops along the way.
Weather can change quickly at higher elevations, so pack layers even on sunny days. The trail is particularly magical in early morning when fog often shrouds the valley below.
8. Empire Bluff Trail – Honor
This trail packs incredible scenery into a relatively short 1.5-mile round trip. The path winds through beech-maple forest before emerging at a breathtaking overlook of Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Wooden boardwalks and stairs protect sensitive dune areas while making the trail more accessible. The moderate climb includes several switchbacks that help manage the elevation gain.
Summer weekends bring crowds, so consider an early morning or weekday visit for a more peaceful experience.
The trail can be slippery after rain, so watch your footing.
9. Hungarian Falls – Calumet
Waterfall chasers and their canine companions will fall in love with this Upper Peninsula gem. Hungarian Falls features a series of cascades along Dover Creek, with the most impressive drop being about 50 feet.
My dog couldn’t decide whether to bark at or play in the rushing water during our summer visit.
The trail network is informal but well-traveled, following the creek upstream through dense northern forest. Different access points allow you to see upper, middle, or lower falls depending on your time and mobility constraints.
Spring visits offer the most dramatic water flow, though summer provides better swimming opportunities in the lower pools. Always keep your dog leashed near the falls, as currents can be stronger than they appear.
10. Manistee River Trail – Huron-Manistee National Forests
During my three-day backpacking trip, my pup spent more time in the water than on the trail!
Multiple campsites along the route make this perfect for overnight adventures with your four-legged friend. The trail features moderate difficulty with some rolling hills and occasional steep sections near lookout points.
Wildlife sightings are common—we spotted deer, wild turkeys, and even a bald eagle. The trail connects with the North Country Trail to create a 23-mile loop for those seeking a longer adventure, though day-hikers can easily enjoy shorter out-and-back sections.
11. Ogemaw Hills Pathway – West Branch
Fewer crowds make Ogemaw Hills a peaceful retreat for dogs who prefer solitude. The trail system offers loops ranging from 1.2 to 15 miles through diverse landscapes including hardwood forests, pine plantations, and open meadows.
Clear markers make navigation straightforward, though I recommend downloading a trail map as cell service can be spotty.
The varied terrain provides natural training elements for dogs—logs to jump over, hills to climb, and streams to cross—making it an excellent choice for active breeds.