Where there are lakes and woods (and you, of course!) your pooch is happy. Check out these parks and preserves in Charlevoix, Antrim, Otsego and Crawford to find the perfect spot for your four-legged buddies to stretch their legs.
This article was featured in the 2021 Traverse Magazine Vacation Guide. Download your free digital issue today or get the Vacation Guide in print each year for free when you subscribe to Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine, delivered to your door each month.
Charlevoix Area Dog-Friendly Nature Preserves
Little Traverse Conservancy
The Little Traverse Conservancy owns or manages almost two-dozen natural areas in the Charlevoix region where leashed dogs are allowed. Check out the Little Traverse Conservancy website for the list.
Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy
The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy also owns and manages six natural areas in Antrim County, most of which allow leashed dogs. Antrim Creek Natural Area includes a mile of Lake Michigan frontage made for glorious dog walks. Check out the GTRLC website for additional detail and local dog-friendly trails.
Grass River Natural Area
At Grass River Natural Area, located north of Alden, leashed dogs are allowed on the Algonquin and Rail trails. And you are free to walk your dog on the Little Traverse Wheelway, as well as the Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail.
Antrim, Charlevoix, Otsego & Crafword Parks
All of the state, county and city parks in the Antrim/Charlevoix/Otsego/ Crawford region are dog-friendly, though dogs are not permitted at swimming beaches. Dogs are welcome on the several miles of Lake Michigan beach, as well as on the 0.7-mile hiking trail at Mt. McSauba Recreational Area (find great sunsets, too!).
Headed to a winery, distillery, brewery or cafe with outdoor seating? Chances are there is seating in a dog-friendly area. Be sure to call ahead to verify. Looking for a long weekend of dog-friendly activities? Check out these dog-friendly weekend activities in TC, Petoskey & Harbor Springs.
Find this article and more in the free, digital edition of MyNorth’s 2021 Northern Michigan Vacation Guide below; or get the Vacation Guide in print each year for free when you subscribe to Traverse, Northern Michigan’s Magazine, delivered to your door each month.
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