Leonard Preserve - Manchester,
Leonard Preserve Dog Park in Manchester, MI
Leonard Preserve offers a unique hiking experience just outside the village of Manchester, MI. With several miles of well-maintained and well-marked trails meandering through open grassy fields, prairies, and woodlands, the preserve is known for its scenic beauty and the diverse wildlife along the River Raisin. The terrain varies from gentle, easy-rolling hills to more challenging inclines, making it an appealing destination for dog owners looking for pet-friendly trails in the Manchester area.
While dogs are welcome on the trails, be aware that Leonard Preserve is not a traditional fenced dog park. Leashes are required, and there are no designated off-leash or fenced dog areas. The park is not wheelchair accessible, and amenities such as water fountains, waste stations, or seating areas are not mentioned in available reviews. Some visitors note that the trails can be muddy after rain, and ticks are present, especially in spring. Families will enjoy the kid-friendly hikes and tranquil atmosphere, but be sure to plan accordingly for your canine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must remain on-leash on all trails at Leonard Preserve.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area at this preserve.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are required to remain on leash at all times.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, Leonard Preserve does not have a wheelchair accessible entrance.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? The preserve is good for kids and kid-friendly hikes, but there is no mention of a playground.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Leonard Preserve features several miles of interconnected hiking trails.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, Washtenaw County maintains the preserve and the trails are described as well-kept.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, the trails can be muddy, especially in early spring.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, visitors have reported encountering ticks on the trails, especially in spring.
Reviews
Just outside of the village of Manchester, MI this preserve has several miles of trails through fields, prairie and woods. Part of one of the main trails is near the River Raisin with views of the river below. We hiked about 3 miles. It’s pretty and we’ll maintained.
My brother made me aware of this trail about a year ago, and despite walking virtually the same route each time in close to 6-7 trips, I still feel like I’m just getting familiar with the loop(s). The way it’s set up allows considerable ‘customization’ in terms of distance/terrain, although we always go the 3+ miles to get the full benefit of Leonard Preserve. Some have described it as ‘easy rolling’ terrain, but there is enough elevation to make it a good workout, and it’s a little more challenging than the leisurely stroll implied in some reviews. If you haven’t been there before, I would suggest printing a map (or using AllTrails app, or similar) to aid with familiarization. I’ve only been to the Preserve once during hunting season, and it was without prior knowledge, so for future reference, ‘know before you go’ is my advice. I’m a dog owner, but the absence of irresponsible ‘poo management’ exhibited by some dog owners on other trails in the area is a good thing in my book. Washtenaw County does a good job maintaining the trail and are to be commended.
This is a lovely preserve with well marked trails. I like the diversity of the landscape. Hiking along the river, open grassy fields and thick woods with conifers and deciduous trees. The trails are a little muddy right now, but that’s understandable considering it’s early spring.
BEWARE: I just completed a walk on this trail (5/18/24) and I came across 4 different ticks that landed on my legs. I’ll attached a photo of the tick that I smacked onto my shoe. Other than ticks, this is a decent and secluded trail.
Great trails but no dogs or bikes. Trails are rolling and along the river with lots of birds, frogs, and trees. Quiet spot where you are not likely to see another hiker. The perimeter trails total 3.5 miles.