Grand Island National Recreation Area

Are you looking for a pawtastic place to visit and hike during the spring, summer and fall seasons? You and your pup should pack up now and head to the Grand Island National Recreational Area in Munising, Michigan, to spend some quality, outdoor time together. 

The location is an actual island on Lake Superior, which is part of the Hiawatha National Forest. You can access this property by riding the Grand Island Ferry. It is pup-friendly and will take you both to the recreational area where there are so many things to do. Spend the day or the week in nature here.

Pick up the trailhead for the Grand Island Loop Trail when you get off the ferry. It will take you around the entire perimeter of the island and runs for 21.2 miles. This trail is rated as difficult, so it might not be suited to the newbie pup hikers. However, starting out is easy so go as far as you can. Advanced hikers will enjoy sandstone cliffs that jut out into the lake and views of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Your pup is welcome to be off leash and do some swimming once you are well on your way along this trail.

Grand Island also offers beaches for human swimmers and inland lakes and woods for a scenic trip. There are tent camp sites, as well as cabins that can be rented if you and your fur-ever friend want to extend your visit. The cost of the ferry covers the national forest fee as well. Restrooms are located where you depart the boat. The island is essentially closed for the winter as the access to the island is cut off by the frozen lake.

Check out Grand Island National Recreational Area for a puptastically good time in the Upper Michigan Peninsula.