Chapel Falls Trailhead - Shingleton,
Chapel Falls Trailhead: Dog-Friendly Hiking Near Shingleton, MI
If you’re searching for an incredible dog-friendly hiking experience in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Chapel Falls Trailhead near Shingleton is a must-visit. This pet-friendly trail system is renowned for its stunning Lake Superior vistas, diverse scenic landscapes, and variety of well-kept trails. Whether you’re interested in a quick stroll to Chapel Falls or an adventurous 10+ mile loop connecting Mosquito Falls, Chapel Beach, and the North Country Trail, this area offers some of the best dog-friendly hiking for pets and their owners alike.
The trailhead is wheelchair accessible and features amenities like a parking lot and accessible restrooms at group campsites. While not a traditional fenced dog park, Chapel Falls Trailhead is a favorite for hiking with dogs, thanks to its well-marked paths, forested shade, waterfalls, and kid-friendly atmosphere. Be mindful that the park can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended! Trails may become muddy after rain, and dogs should remain on-leash at all times for safety and to preserve the natural environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple interconnected hiking trails, including loops that feature waterfalls, beaches, and scenic overlooks.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are restrooms available at the group campsites along the trail.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, the parking lot is wheelchair accessible.
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs should be kept on-leash for safety and environmental reasons.
- What should I know about parking? There is a parking lot on site, but it fills up quickly, so arrive early, especially on weekends.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, some parts of the trail, especially the eastern side, can become muddy or swampy after rain.
- Is this park good for kids? Yes, the trail is rated as being good for kids and families.
Reviews
Probably the most impressive park I’ve ever been to, it has such a diverse array of scenery that you could spend two days on this trail alone and still not get bored. I tried to do the loop from chapel falls to mosquito falls and barely had enough time to do it in 6hrs with rushing.
Arrive early!!! The parking lot fills up fast and lines up down the road after a while. My hike was just over 10.5 miles, with the eastern side of the loop consisting primarily of mud, but the rest was in great shape. Beautiful Lake Superior views on the hike, even several waterfalls and forested areas. One of my favorite hikes I’ve ever done!
Chapel Falls (Beach) Trailhead also shares the the same location as Mosquito Falls (Beach) so there are multiple hikes you can go on. If you have 5 to 6 hours to spare and feel up to it. I’d suggest a 10 mile loop trail that encompasses Mosquito Falls, Mosquito Beach, Chapel Beach, Chapel Rock, and finally Chapel Falls. Not to mention the 4 miles between Mosquito Beach and Chapel Beach follows the North Country Trail which takes you past interesting rock formations along the way. And plenty of scenic Lake Superior overlooks. Trail is easy to follow and well kept. I thought my favorite hike in Pictured Rocks was the one to Spray Falls however I believe this one has taken its place. I think I’ve come to the realization that my favorite hike in Pictured Rocks is going to be the latest hike I’ve been on
May 5, 2025- road to chapel basin is open. Started clockwise and skipped mosquito falls bc a review in AllTrails says it’s washed out. Excellent hike, no blazes and lots of watery/swampy bits. Also bathrooms along the way at the group campsites. So beautiful!
This trailhead starts and ends the loop. On all trails this is rated the best hike in Michigan. The views were amazing and the hike didn’t disappoint.