Elizabeth Lake Woods Park - Waterford Township,
Elizabeth Lake Woods Park: A Pet-Friendly Escape in Waterford Township, MI
Elizabeth Lake Woods Park offers a peaceful, natural retreat for nature lovers and their canine companions in Waterford Township, MI. Known for its wooded surroundings, the park is a local favorite for leisurely walks, picnics, and even photography sessions. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hiking destination, this park features scenic, minimally intrusive trails that wind through lush woods and by swampy areas, making it perfect for on-leash exploration with your pup.
Families also appreciate the welcoming and kid-friendly atmosphere, with space for picnics and outdoor activities. While the park’s natural land is ideal for wandering and thinking, please be mindful that, as the area can get buggy in the summer, spring and fall visits may be more pleasant. Elizabeth Lake Woods Park stands out in Waterford as a spot to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy quality dog walks on pet-friendly trails close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at this park? Yes, dogs are welcome at Elizabeth Lake Woods Park.
- What are the leash requirements? Dogs are allowed but should remain on-leash, as there is no mention of a designated off-leash area.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park is wooded, providing natural shade throughout the area.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features minimally-invasive walking trails for hikes with your dog.
- Is this park good for children? Yes, the park is family-friendly and welcomes kids and kid-friendly hikes.
- Is the park muddy or buggy after it rains? Some areas can be swampy and buggy, especially in the summer months.
Reviews
Very cute little area
Great Natural Area Park Land. The area of Donnie’s Woods is awesome.
A private, clean, wooded park area. There are some swampy areas so it may get a little buggy in the summer. A great place for sittng and reading, picnicking, or just thinking in the spring and fall. Also Ideal for outdoor photography.
The crown jewel of conservation in Waterford. Could use some minimally-invasive walking trails to maximize appreciation, enjoyment, and health benefits of the natural area, but that is not necessary.
Public support will be needed indefinitely, to protect this community asset. Please spread the word that we love this park, so that one day it will (hopefully) not be sold off for development.
Setting sail from the Cooley Lake Road launch this past Thursday, July 20th, my kayak journey upriver had a clear-cut goal: conquer the current and secure the coveted prize of buy-one-get-one boneless wings at bdubs. But oh, was I in for a surprise!
The river was a puzzle, dotted with fallen trees that demanded agility and strategic maneuvering. The shallow water at numerous points seemed determined to thwart my paddling efforts, transforming a seemingly leisurely ride into an unexpected workout.
The tranquility was rudely interrupted when we found ourselves in the path of a group of mute swans. Contrary to their name, they were quite forward, their chests puffed out in what I can only describe as ‘swan bravado’. They seemed intent on laying claim to the river, forcing us to make a hasty retreat.
Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any stranger, my startled reaction to a passing turtle sent me and my kayak capsizing into the river. Scrambling back aboard with the speed of a pursued gazelle, I paddled fervently to put some water between us and the surprisingly intimidating swan squad.
Perhaps the day’s crowning moment was when I mistook a deer for a goat – a case of mistaken identity that still brings a smile to my face. “Hey babe! Look it’s a goat!”, I proclaimed, a testament to my less-than-stellar wildlife identification skills.
After what seemed like an age, we finally left the swan posse in our wake, ending our river escapade on a somewhat lighter note. Looking back, despite the unexpected twists and turns, it was quite an adventure. Yet, I can’t help but feel that those swans have some unfinished business with me.
So, if you plan a similar trip, brace yourself for a swan showdown – and perhaps, make sure you can tell a deer from a goat. Happy paddling!