5 Parks We Love Bringing Our Dogs To In Grand Rapids
It’s that time of year, folks. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and we are itching to hit the park with our dogs! Walking your dog is a great source of exercise for you and your furry family member, so today we are sharing a list of some of our favorite (leashed) dog friendly parks in Grand Rapids!
Keep in mind that all parks mentioned below require dogs to be leashed at all times. Please be respectful of the rules and pick up after your pet when you are out enjoying the parks, and always familiarize yourself with the leash laws in your area before heading out.
Provin Trails
This dog-friendly hiking gem is perfect for those running short on time, but want to get out in all that nature has to offer. The main trail is a little under 2 miles long, but there are plenty of other trails that connect to the perimeter so you can mix things up and take as much time on your walk as you’d like. As with all parks on this list, Provin Trails does not allow off leash dogs – please respect the rules and keep your pup on a leash or longline.
Riverside Park
A tried and true favorite for those living in the downtown area, Riverside park is a little over 3 miles and is one of our favorite parks for working with dogs who need a little space from people or other dogs, but still need the exposure. The walking trail runs parallel to a driving trail (for sporting event), but is separated by large patches of land giving reactive dogs a chance to acclimate to the park before merging onto the main trail.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is the largest urban park in West Michigan. With roughly 18 miles of trails, Millennium Park is a walker (or runners) paradise! Information about all of their trails can be found online so you can be sure to find the perfect trail for you and your dog’s adventure.
Huff Park
This city park is located minutes from Knapp Corner, but you would never know it on the trail! The wetland trail is secluded and quiet, offering a peaceful getaway from city life just minutes from home. Bonus: There is a playground and picnic tables at the park, making it the perfect place to have a picnic with your family – dogs included!
Blandford Nature Center
We have loved Blandford Nature Center for years! It’s a true gem, located in the heart of Grand Rapids and is a fantastic place to get out and explore with the littles and your leashed dogs. There are a variety of trails to wander, and all (with the exception of the wildlife trail) are leashed-dog friendly! Please note that dogs are allowed everywhere on the property except on our Wildlife Trail and inside their buildings (with the exception of service animals).
We want to hear from you! Tell us your favorite park to bring your leashed pup to in the Grand Rapids area on our Facebook page today.
We love to visit Roselle Park on Grand River Drive in Ada. Nice paved trail that has loops that let you walk a little or a long way.