National Forest · MI

Dogs in Hiawatha National Forest

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendly

The Hiawatha sits between Lakes Superior, Huron, and Michigan in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with wilderness areas such as Big Island Lake and Rock River Canyon. On Grand Island National Recreation Area, domestic animals must be kept on a leash except while being used for hunting.

Dogs are welcome on the forest's hundreds of miles of trails, including the North Country National Scenic Trail. Keep pets leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and keep them under control at all times in wilderness areas.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on the forest's hundreds of miles of trails, including the North Country National Scenic Trail. Keep pets leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and keep them under control at all times in wilderness areas.

Where dogs are not allowed

Swim beaches and designated swimming areas typically bar pets. On Grand Island National Recreation Area, dogs must stay leashed except when used for hunting.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
U.S. Forest Service
View the Forest Service page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Forest

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Hiawatha National Forest?

The Hiawatha sits between Lakes Superior, Huron, and Michigan in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with wilderness areas such as Big Island Lake and Rock River Canyon. On Grand Island National Recreation Area, domestic animals must be kept on a leash except while being used for hunting. Dogs are welcome on the forest's hundreds of miles of trails, including the North Country National Scenic Trail. Keep pets leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and keep them under control at all times in wilderness areas.

What is the leash rule at Hiawatha National Forest?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Where are dogs not allowed at Hiawatha National Forest?

Swim beaches and designated swimming areas typically bar pets. On Grand Island National Recreation Area, dogs must stay leashed except when used for hunting.

Are service animals allowed at Hiawatha National Forest?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.