Dogwalker’s Paradise: A Guide to Dog-Friendly Travel in the Cadillac Area
Traveling is great, but when you have dogs, it can get a bit “hairy” at times. In the Cadillac Area, there are plenty of things to do and places to stay that will allow you to bring your furry friends along with you, so you don’t miss out on that opportunity, and your companion can experience it as well. So, skip the kennel and come to Greater Cadillac.
Disclaimer: Some Trails/Areas may be impacted by recent flooding, for more information, links to impacted areas are at the bottom of the blog.
Where to stay
The Cadillac Area offers plenty of places to stay if you’re looking to bring your dog along for your trip.
(Pictured: Coyote Crossing Resort)
- Mackinaw Timbers: Two cabins at Mackinaw Timbers have been deemed dog friendly. For a more rustic experience, these cabins will offer exactly what you’re looking for. Mackinaw Timbers is located within driving distance to several trails, and it’s even close to the Waldeck Island Nature Preserve but make sure to keep your dog on its leash to protect local wildlife!
- Coyote Crossing Resort: At Coyote Crossing Resort, two cabins allow your furry friends to cozy up with you during your stay. Trails galore exist within a drivable distance at this Northern Michigan retreat amidst the Manistee National Forest, it’s the perfect place to cuddle with your doggo while they dream about all of the birds, squirrels, and chipmunks they saw go by during the day.
- Lost Pines Lodge: With prior approval, and in houses, dog owners can bring their pups along to Lost Pines Lodge. Located in the Manistee National Forest, there are, again, trails all over the place. Kick your feet back, enjoy some drinks, and hang out in the forest after your long day of hiking with the furry friends is all done.
- Sun ‘N Snow Motel: This dog-friendly hotel is perfect for the budget conscious traveler, with good quality and great prices, you can stay just over a mile away from the Carl T. Johnson Hunting & Fishing Center, where you can access the Mitchell State Park Heritage Trail and view all of the animals and beautiful trails it has to offer, great for any level of hiker.
- Pilgrim Village Resort and Fishing Shop: Cozy cottages, lake views, what more could you ask for? This resort offers a perfect getaway for those looking to bring a dog or two (except for July). This is your spot. This place is great for walks along Lake Mitchell, Lake Cadillac, or through Mitchell State Park, all in proximity.
- Comfort Inn: Looking for a more traditional hotel that offers dog-friendly policies? This is a great spot to do so. Located near the heartbeat of the Cadillac West M-115 corridor, you will have easy access to many of the trails and parks across the Greater Cadillac Area.
- Days Inn: Want to make it a family affair and bring the kiddos? Days Inn in Cadillac allows you to bring your furry friend and be near both lakes, Mitchell State Park, and, conveniently, is next to Adventure Island!
- Economy Inn: An affordable option, the Economy Inn in Cadillac puts you in proximity to everything you can do in Cadillac and is still located near all of the parks and lakes you’ll want to visit with your furry friend.
- Evergreen Resort: For those looking for good proximity to all Cadillac has to offer and Greater Cadillac, too, Evergreen Resort is a great spot! Go golfing (if your pup is okay hanging back!) or set your Basecamp up for the rest of the activities available here.
- Hampton Inn: The Hampton Inn in Cadillac is another hotel with proximity to both Lake Mitchell and Lake Cadillac if you’re looking to stretch your legs with your furry friends and catch some beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the water while you sit back, relax, and catch some vitamins from the sun.
What to do
So, you’re looking for something to do now that you’ve booked your stay. Thankfully, Greater Cadillac has everything someone could want for a dog owner. There’s water, trails, parks, and even good spots for just hanging out.
Take a Walk on the Keith McKellop Walkway (Currently Impacted by Flooding)
Dogs are pretty simple creatures. Humans take them on walks, and they love it. Humans love it, too, especially when the views are as good as they are on the Keith McKellop Walkway. Make sure your furry friend has a leash, and you pick up after them as a good dog owner would, and you’ll have a lovely stroll at any time of the day. Mornings and evenings present gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, and in the summer, they may help your puppy’s paws on a hot day!
Grab a Bite at Clam Lake Beer Co.
Check out one of many gems in Downtown Cadillac where you can grab a craft beverage and chow down on some amazing food (try the Mac & Cheese, trust me!). There are dog-friendly tables where your friends (on a leash!) can hang out. And we all know, you’ll probably end up sharing some of your food with them, responsibly, of course.
(Pictured: Burke’s Waterfront)
Sit Down with Waterfront Views at Burke’s Waterfront
If you feel more inclined, or are closer to Cadillac West, no problem! The food is great, the outdoor seating is dog-friendly, and the views are immaculate. Stop by for great food, drinks, and a sunset over Lake Cadillac.
Take a Hike on the Manistee River Trail
If you’re looking for hiking, Greater Cadillac offers that. One of the best places to head is to the Manistee River Trail, where you’ll get scenic views and feel at one with nature. With your canine friend, be sure to take in all of the nature that the Huron-Manistee National Forest has to offer, but always remember to have your pup on a leash and be respectful of local wildlife. The silence and peacefulness of the trail give you a serene disconnect from the outside world.
Trek Along the White Pine Trail
This paved trail has quite the significance in the Greater Cadillac Area. This trail connects Grand Rapids and Cadillac, and is fully paved, making it Michigan’s longest paved trail. Now, I don’t think you and your furry friend will make that type of trek, but the tree-covered trail makes it a must-see in any season, but especially while the Fall colors are popping out on the trees. And another heads up, make sure the pups are leashed and are picked up after!
Let the Dog(s) out at Cadillac Area Dog Park
Who let the dogs out? Well, you, hopefully. You’ve probably made some friends with the friendly locals of Greater Cadillac, and your furry companion probably loves them too, but they also want dog friends! This is the place to do it; it’s a great place to responsibly let your loved one (the dog, of course, and maybe your human loved ones, too) roam around and get their energy out.
Hit the Beaches at Kenwood Park & Beach (Currently Impacted by Flooding, Proceed with Caution)
What’s a trip, especially in the summer, without checking out a beach? Kenwood Park & Beach is perfect for humans’ best friend to splash in the water, and ultimately smell like a wet dog, like all day, but it’s worth it, because of how much fun it is!
Grab Some Snacks at Simply Delightful
Is your doggo reading this blog and thinking, “uh… Where are all of the treats?” Well, we can help you find those. Also, if your dog is reading this blog, get in contact with us… That’s highly impressive. Stop in to see Simply Delightful’s marvelous selection of dog treats, and human treats for you, of course.
Check out The Bird House in Downtown Cadillac
The Bird House in Downtown Cadillac is a paradise for those looking for well-crafted handmade goods. This store, composed of different vendors, almost surely will provide you with great accessories and dog-related items for your pup. It’s also perfect for owners, too, and may result in you re-designing your house when you get home with the number of great products you’ll find.
Cruise Downtown to Threads North for Unforgettable Gear
In the heart of Downtown Cadillac lies the mighty Threads North, where you can find bigfoot, and you can find all of the goodies your four-legged friends need. Dogs are more than welcome in this store as you can often find treats by Dawg’s Choice, a local Cadillac brand, water, and a variety of goods. Collars, jackets, dog backpacks (they are as awesome as they sound), leashes, blankets, scarves for the colder months, harnesses and on-the-go bowls. When you stop in, your furry, photogenic friend may be the next post on Threads North’s social media pages, too
Stock up at Northwoods Feed & Supply
Pet supplies and dog food may not always last on your trip, but don’t worry, Northwoods Feed & Supply is stocked with supplies, food, and all sorts of necessities for your animals. It’s a great place to stop in, look around and even see the baby chickens the store often has!
Conclusion
So, there you have it, a list of so many things to do, places to see, and fun to be had in the Greater Cadillac Area with your dog. Be sure to check out the rest of our website to see what else you can find, as you’ll never run out of things to do when you make the trip and stay in the area!
*Disclaimer*: Each lodging property will have its own rules and regulations related to dogs staying. Please be sure to include all of the necessary information so that both parties are equally prepared. And always remember to be mindful and courteous when strolling around in nature while in Greater Cadillac, as local wildlife is vital and should not be bothered. If you’re unsure about whether or not a dog is welcome in an area or place of business, please ask!
POSSIBLE FLOOD IMPACTED AREAS:
- Kenwood Park and Beach