Explore the great outdoors with your favorite four-legged friend(s).

Michigan is a water-winter wonderland worth exploring no matter the time of year. As a dog owner you already know how tough it can be finding dog-friendly establishments and that includes nearby parks and trails.

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The following recreational areas and hiking trails are open to you and your canine companion-- just make sure you pack plenty of water, snacks, leashes, and don't forget the doggie waste bags!


via Google Maps
Saugatuck Dunes State Park via Google Maps
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Saugatuck Dunes State Park - Saugatuck/Holland

This pet-friendly park features four different trails ranging from 2.5 to 5.5 miles. The official Saugatuck city website suggests parking at the picnic area at 64th & 138th in Saugatuck for a 10 mile hike to the beach. Heads up: the park itself requires a recreation passport or day-use fee.


 

Kal-Haven Trail
Kal-Haven Trail - Google Maps
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Kal-Haven Trail - Kalamazoo to South Haven

In total, this trail is 33.5 miles long and connects South Haven to Kalamazoo, MI. Often used for hiking, biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, there are several places to catch the trail along the way in addition to the two main trailheads. Explore heritage sites and streams as you traverse the slag/limestone trail with your pup.


 

swan creek trail head
Swan Creek Trailhead via Google Maps
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South Swan Creek Loop Trail - Fennville

popular trail for birding and hiking, this 5.7 mile loop trail is open year-round and allows dogs on a leash. Though AllTrails designates the trail as "easy" many locals refer to it as "medium difficulty" due to steep terrain and downed trees. Watch out for poison ivy!


 

Via/ Google Maps
Fort Custer Recreation Area - Google Maps
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Fort Custer Recreational Area - Augusta

Located between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, MI Fort Custer includes 25 miles of multi-use trails; all are open to your four-legged friends for hiking and dog-sledding and there are even equestrian trails too! Note: A Michigan parks recreation passport is required.

Here Are At Least 6 Dog-Friendly Patios Across West Michigan

Patios aren't just for people! Here are several local establishments throughout West Michigan that will welcome your 4-legged friends.

Gallery Credit: Lauren Gordon

Dogs on Kayaks in Michigan

Michigan dogs in kayaks

Dog Poop Clean Up Services in Lansing

As you're thinking about spring cleaning, don't forget about your yard, especially if you're a dog owner. You may not have been able to pick up each little "present" your dog left in the yard over winter. If that's the case, or you could use some help with pet waste cleanup, these Lansing area services have you covered.

Gallery Credit: Kristen Matthews

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