Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area Trailhead - Curran,
Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area Trailhead – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Curran, MI
Discover the scenic beauty and tranquility of the Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area Trailhead, a top choice for pet-friendly trails in Curran, MI. This location offers miles of dog-friendly hiking through mixed hardwood and conifer forests, with easy to moderate terrain and beautiful small lakes perfect for day hikes or overnight backpacking trips. You’ll find the area less crowded than other parks, making it an ideal escape for those seeking peace and adventure with their canine companions.
With public restrooms, well-maintained campsites, and routes suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, Hoist Lake appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The numerous trails provide plenty of space for dogs on-leash, but be aware of ticks during certain seasons—especially in spring—so checking yourself and your furry friend after your hike is recommended. Whether you’re camping by the lake or exploring the forest terrain, this is one of the region’s best dog-friendly hiking destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs should remain on-leash while hiking in this area.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple hiking trails throughout the Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available at the trailhead.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, this area is noted as being good for kids with kid-friendly hikes.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, ticks can be plentiful during some parts of the year, so please check yourself and your dog after hiking.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, campsites and trails are generally well kept and maintained by visitors.
Reviews
Nice place to get away from the crowd for hiking and backpacking. We were here on a Friday and Saturday in early August, and there were only 2 other cars. It is mostly easy hiking in mixed hardwood and conifer forest, but some parts of the trail have tall grass and a few have brambles – I recommend long pants. The bugs weren’t bad except close to swampy areas. The lakes are small, nothing spectacular, but they make a nice destination for hiking.
Beautiful scenery all around the hiking trails, people you run into are always friendly and all the campsites are well kept when people leave (though don’t dig bare handed in ANY fire pits, ever!). The lakes are beautiful to camp at and you’ll get to spend the night with a noisy porcupine if you’re lucky!
Great elevation changes throughout the area, great terrain for hiking through the woods. Many great spots on Byron Lake for setting camp. Looking forward to backpacking to N. & S. Hoists on next visit.
Nice spot restricted to hiking and backpacking only. Ticks were plentiful in early May so check yourself and your dogs.
Great Place To Backpack in and Camp. Hiked in from the East Trailhead and camped on north hoist lake. There’s a few more camping spots than what shows on the trail map if you explore a little bit. Camped July 30th-Aug 1st and bug’s were not as bad as anticipated. Would recommend for beginners and experienced alike.