Kettles Trail - Empire,
Kettles Trail – Dog-Friendly Hiking and Nature in Empire, MI
Kettles Trail is a hidden gem for dog lovers and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, scenic escape in Empire, MI. This pet-friendly trail system welcomes dogs on-leash and offers hikers and their furry companions a mix of open meadows, forested areas, moderate elevation changes, and unique geological features like bogs. The trails are well-maintained, providing a safe and enjoyable hiking experience through Northern Michigan’s natural landscapes.
Visitors enjoy shaded paths ideal for avoiding summer heat, rolling hills for a bit of a workout, and tranquil surroundings that are less crowded than other parks in the region. The trailhead offers wheelchair accessible parking, and the hiking routes are popular with both kids and adults. Kettles Trail is the perfect spot for locals and visitors seeking dog-friendly hiking in Empire with beautiful views and opportunities to explore with their pets.
Frequently Asked Questions – Kettles Trail Dog Park
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must remain on a leash while using the trail.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? There is wheelchair accessible parking available at the trailhead.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Kettles Trail offers loop hiking routes through various landscapes.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The trail passes through wooded areas which provide plenty of shade.
- Is the trail suitable for children? Yes, Kettles Trail is good for kids and offers kid-friendly hikes.
- Are there parking facilities available? Yes, there is parking at the trailhead.
Reviews
It is okay, but like so many other hikes, you get to a lookout or, in this case, a Kettle and just about all you see is TREES. There are billions of trees in the park. They can cut down a few to improve the viewing experience and have NO IMPACT TO NATURE.
Very nice hike. You get to see some bogs. The hike is mostly up hill. Its not the easiest hike but being in wilderness is always worth it. Your mostly in wooded areas with a couple of open fields. Dogs can go here as long as you have a leash for them. Enjoy your hike and remember pack it in and pack it out.
Good maintained trail through the woods with some beautiful nature. Not difficult but a good workout through the rolling hills. Includes a bog and wetlands so be prepared for bugs during the summer. Definitely a less-visited part of the NL and mostly covered so it’s a great escape from the sun and crowds.
“Lookout” is a deceptive spur with no scenic view but some information about the geologic history of the region
Stumbled upon this hidden gem. It really was beautiful. The elevation changes and ridges almost felt like the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in southern Ohio. Loved Loved Loved the offshoot to the bog. Felt very magical. The in/out and smaller loop ended up being about 3 miles. The larger loop would add another 3.
Great trail. Not fully marked yet, think it’s a new trail. Starts out in an open meadow area, then through wooded area. Moderate grades at times. Wonderful. Did one loop almost 3 miles.