Pictured Rocks Dog Policy
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is Somewhat Dog Friendly
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore encompasses picturesque cliffs, forests, beaches, waterfalls, and shorline on Lake Superior. The Lakeshore offers hiking, camping, watersports, and winter sports and activities.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is somewhat dog friendly, because dogs aren't allowed at many areas of the park. However, there are a fair number of really nice trails, views, and beaches where dogs are allowed (see below), so this is actually a great destination to go with your dog. Dogs are also allowed at drive-in campgrounds.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog tag by learning and following responsible practices (see the BARK Ranger section below).
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/piro/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Hunting
- Allows Hunting []
- Annual Visitors
- 1,212,251
Trail Policy
Dogs are only allowed on some trails at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore while on a leash no longer than 6'. The trails dogs are allowed on are:
- Munising Falls Trail - 800ft each way. Views of 50 foot waterfall, including multiple viewing platforms of the waterfall.
- Miners Falls Trail - 1.2 miles roundtrip. Easy walk through the forest to the falls on Miners River which are about 50 ft tall over sandstone.
- Paved Trail to Overlooks at Miners Castle - 200ft - 1300ft each way. This is the most popular part of the park, and offers great views.
- Au Sable Access Road - 3 miles roundtrip. The road is an old access road to an isolated lighthouse on Lake Superior.
- Sable Falls Trail - 0.5 miles roundtrip. Views of Sable Falls from the trail, including viewing spots.
- White Birch Trail - 2 miles. At the Twelvemile Beach Campground, it's a self guided tour that explores the history of the area.
- Grand Sable Forest Trail - 2 miles roundtrip. The trail is between the visitor center and Sable Falls parking lot, and is an easy walk through the forest and edge of old farmlands.
Beach Policy
Dogs are only allowed at the following beaches:
- Sand Point Beaches
- Miners Beach
- Lake Superior Overlook and Beach
- Sable Falls Beach
- Beaches directly in front of campgrounds
Dogs are not allowed at other beaches.
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
For more information on the Bark Ranger program, please see: https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/bark-ranger.htm
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Hunting
Warning: Hunting is allowed at this location. Please be aware of and familiarize yourself with hunting seasons, and exercise appropriate caution with your dog. During hunting season(s), you may also want to consider having your dog wear a blaze orange vest.
For more information on hunting seasons and policies, please see: https://www.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/hunting.htm
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
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