There’s perhaps nothing better than getting out into nature while spending quality time with your dog. Finding a dog-friendly spot to hike can prove rather difficult, however, leaving you wondering just where to spend your time together. Thankfully, you can get the inside scoop from this helpful guide. Ready to hit the road? Here’s what you need to know about the top spots to hike with your dog in Ohio and Michigan.

Reeds Lake Trail

With all its waterfowl, squirrels, and other wildlife all around, the Reeds Lake Trail in Grand Rapids, MI, always proves endlessly entertaining for dogs. As you walk along the 4.5 miles of boardwalks and paved pathways around the lake, the beautiful scenery will leave you utterly captivated as well.

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

At Saugatuck Dunes State Park in Holland, MI, you can let your dog sniff along the shoreline of Lake Michigan while enjoying the amazing views. Expect a rather rough trail down to the beach, but then you have 2.5 miles of soft sandy shores to explore.

Windmill Island Gardens

Although you do have to pay an admission fee, the Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, MI, lets you gaze in awe at the colorful flowers while your dog gets to enjoy a smorgasbord of interesting scents. With the exception of the gift shop and windmill, you’re free to take your dog all over the garden space at your leisure.

Al Sabo Nature Preserve

When you want to spend the whole day out on the trails, you cannot go wrong with a trip over to the Al Sabo Nature Preserve in Kalamazoo, MI. With over eight miles of trails to explore, this park will definitely leave you and your dog wholly tired out by the end of your trip.

Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail

If you want to stroll along the creek and watch all the ducks and geese float along the water, plan a trip over to the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail in Michigan. Your dog will love to sniff along the pathways and bark at the waterfowl as you walk the four-mile trail.

Riverbend Park Loop

Although just over one mile long, the Riverbend Park Loop in Findlay, OH, promises to give you and your dog a nice workout. Plan to walk the loop several times over, so you can catch sight of the many beautiful birds, including blue jays, cardinals, and even mourning doves.

Myeerah Trail

Whenever you’re in the mood for a challenging hike with your dog, go to Myeerah Trail in Bellefontaine, OH. The 3.6-mile trek will take you over hills, across creek beds, and through gullies, treating you to amazing glimpses of monarch butterflies, treehouses, and lush greenery.

Tawawa Park Loop

If you’re looking to meander through the forest while getting a gorgeous lakeside view, the Tawawa Park Loop in Sidney, OH, is a great place to go. As you travel along the 3.3-mile trail, you’ll encounter many other like-minded dog owners, giving you and your pup a chance to make new friends on your travels.

It’s Time to Ready to Hit the Trails with Your Dog

Whenever you go hiking with your dog, it’s wise to come well-prepared by bringing:

• Reflective collar with ID
• Harness
• Leash
• Portable bowl
• Food and water
• Treats
• Poop bags
• First aid kit for dogs
• Canine boots
• Flashlight
• Whistle

Want a little help lugging everything around? Equip your pooch with a backpack all their own, so they can help carry a bit of their gear.

Once you have all your gear in hand, just pick your favorite spot and head out for a day of fun with your pup. Then, plan to do it all over again another day, so you can explore all these excellent spots to hike with your dog in Ohio and Michigan.