Dog walking in Chelsea

Chelsea City Center

Chelsea’s City Center is not short on greenery. While taking a walk downtown, you can enjoy beautiful views of Pierce Lake and the Pierce Lake Golf Course. Of course, you and your doggo won’t want to miss out on Pierce Park. Lovingly called “the park with the big rock” by locals, what makes this park unique is the large rock that anyone can paint on. Leashed dogs are welcome as long as you pick up after them. So put some paw prints on the big rock and get creative! When you and your pup are tuckered out and need a boost, head over to Biggby Coffee. With four outdoor pet-friendly tables, this is the place to go! They even offer Pup Cups so your dog can join in on the fun.

Lyndon Center

When you need to get into the woods with your wild dog, head to the Lyndon Center neighborhood in the the Southwest end of Chelsea. This peaceful area of Chelsea is mostly taken up by nature preserves. Park Lyndon County Park features two-miles of nature trails that wind through hilly forests, prairies and wetlands. There are vault toilets available for humans, but please bring water, keep your pooch leashed, and pick up after him. If you want to stay a while, why not kick back at the Green Lake Rustic Campgrounds? The area boasts four campgrounds, multiple beaches, and 47 miles of hiking trails. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park and on non-designated bathing beach areas.

Jenning Rd / N Territorial Rd W

Who knew that puppy paradise is just a 20 minute drive from Chelsea? Head over to this neighborhood in Dexter to enjoy 18 fenced acres of glorious off-leash freedom at Paw Run Dog Park. All dogs must pass a temperament test and have a membership to use the park, so you know you’ll have a safe, good time! Check out the Paw Run website to register. You can enjoy watching your pup romp around in the natural tall grass areas, make use of the walking trails, or take a splash in the man-made dog pond. There is drinking water available to humans and canines, as well as poop bags. Bring along some good toys and treats for your Good Dog!

Hudson Mills / Dover

Nature and dog enthusiasts alike love the this neighborhood in Dexter. Just 15 minutes from Chelsea, you’ll find hiking and camping galore in the Pinckney State Recreation area. It’s even possible to hike from Park Lyndon County Park to Pinckney along the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. You and your furry travel companion will pawsitively love the views of this 35 mile long trail, which features oak and pine forests, open meadows, and unique glacial features along the way. For an easier option, you can take the 2 mile long Silver Lake Trail. Depending on how ambitious you and your dog are to be immersed in nature, you can stay at the Bruin Lake Modern Campgrounds, or the Blind Lake Rustic Campgrounds. Leashed dogs are allowed throughout the state park except for the designated beach bathing areas.