Treat Farm Trail - Empire,
Treat Farm Trail – A Dog-Friendly Hike Near Empire, MI
Treat Farm Trail offers a picturesque and pet-friendly trail experience just south of Empire, MI. This scenic hiking destination features a well-maintained out-and-back trail perfect for those seeking adventure with their four-legged friends. Winding through lush forests and open farmland, the trail leads to historic farm buildings and breathtaking overlooks with views high above Lake Michigan—perfect for a dog-friendly outing.
This trail is popular among locals and visitors alike for its relatively easy hike, natural beauty, and ample parking along the roadside. While not a traditional fenced-in dog park, Treat Farm Trail is an excellent spot for leashed walks, leisurely exploration, and quality time in nature. With its proximity to Empire and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s an outstanding choice for dog owners looking for pet-friendly trails in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore region.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed on Treat Farm Trail? Yes, dogs are allowed on this trail. Please keep them leashed for their safety and the safety of others.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced area; this is a hiking trail through natural areas.
- What are the leash requirements? Dogs must be kept on a leash while on the trail.
- Is there parking available? Yes, there is plenty of parking along the road near the trailhead.
- Are there hiking or walking trails connected to the park? Yes, Treat Farm Trail itself is a popular hiking and walking trail, and there are other trails nearby such as Empire Bluff Trail.
- Is the park good for kids? Yes, the trail is considered kid-friendly and is a great place for family outings.
Reviews
This is a lovely little trail that leads to an old farm and eventually an overlook, but we only went as far as the farm because we were short on time. The hike there wasn’t too bad – a long hill at one point led me to use my inhaler, but I wouldn’t say it was a difficult hike in general. The old farm has several buildings still in good condition, and you can walk freely around them. The only one open to enter was an old shed with a few implements in it, where you could also the woodworking of the building itself – the frame had old hand-hewn posts and stakes, but the walls had a mixture of old and newer wood, and some support beams had clearly been added more recently. I always love wandering around old farms, and this one was really incredible to see.
This is a great hike, and the increased traffic shows that people are noticing! Empire Bluffs Trail is nearly adjacent, but the trail and the views are completely different. Treat Farm Trail reminds me of hiking North Manitou Island.
Wow. Beautiful trail through the forest, leading up to an amazing view high over Lake Michigan. Tons of parking along the road. Part of the National Lakeshore. The trail ends at the lakeshore, but we did see some people taking an additional trail that leads along the bluffs, but we did not go that way. Just an out and back.
Long but fairly easy hike thru’ Forest, then after the Farm hard packed sand to the Lookout that offers great views. Saw some Indian Pipe along the way. Also hiked Empire Bluff after this for the 3rd time because it’s worth it !
Great trail, exactly 1.0 mile from the gate to the cliff. Definitely bring a camera. Don’t mess around near the cliff, Google Earth says it’s 860 feet elevation, and the lake shore is at 580 (280 foot drop).
Check it out on Google Earth 3D
44°47’13″N 86°04’29″W