Belle Isle Bicycle Trail

The Belle Isle Bicycle Trail is a woofderful recreational trail that follows the perimeter of the 980+ acre Belle Isle Park, simply known as Belle Isle. The island is connected to mainland Detroit, Michigan via the Detroit Riverwalk across McArthur Bridge. Its 6+ miles will no doubt offer plenty of exercise for you and your canine. A myriad of other paths and attractions populate the island, so a simple 2-hour hike on the trail can easily turn into a whole day of exploring on Belle Isle! With Belle Isle being the largest island park in the nation, the Belle Isle Bicycle Trail is no doubt a pawpular place to walk a dog.

Once you cross McArthur Bridge and enter Belle Isle, your hike will veer off to the right and continue for ruffly six miles around the entire park. The trail is a paved, multi-use trail shared between joggers, bikers, and dog-walkers, so be mindful of your whereabouts at all times—especially during busy sunset hours! It's important to keep your pup leashed at all times in order to avoid any car or bike accidents. Enjoy the sweeping views of the majestic Detroit River as you look over into Ontario, Canada. The trail offers several scenic lookout points, so make sure to visit them all! 

If you enjoy dog-friendly trails that feature plenty of things to do, then you will adore Belle Isle. Love to take the furkid to playgrounds or enjoy a picnic? There are numerous shady and sunny spots where you can enjoy a snack or watch the kids play about. Belle Isle's main attractions include the Whitcomb Conservatory, the Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse, the Belle Isle Nature Zoo and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, just to name a few. 

Since Belle Isle is a state park, entrance by vehicle requires a recreation passport that is valid at all Michigan state parks. Residents can purchase a yearly passport for $12 when they renew their license plates, or at the park entrance for $17. Non-residents can purchase a day pass for $9, or an annual pass for $34. If you are biking or walking to the island, entrance is free.

Be sure to bring water to share with your pup for the journey, and clean-up bags, and always pick up anything your dog leaves behind. 

Experience the beauty of Belle Isle along the pawrific Belle Isle Bicycle Trail with your pup today!