Curated Winter Trails for Every Dog in Antrim County: A Guide to Safe, Seasonal Adventures

Ashley Areeda
Dec 14
8 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Winter in Northern Michigan weaves a silent magic through our forests and along our shorelines. At Northern Paws, we see this transformed landscape as the perfect backdrop for adventure—but only if that adventure respects the season and your dog's unique spirit.

We believe care is intentional. That’s why we’ve meticulously curated this guide to Antrim County’s winter trails, matching each path to canine energy levels and providing the crucial seasonal knowledge you need for a safe, joyful outing. This isn’t just a list of places; it’s a philosophy of thoughtful exploration, rooted in our deep love for this region and its animals.

A Vital Note on Winter Trail Access

Northern Michigan’s beauty is matched by its seasonal unpredictability. Trail access, parking, and conditions change daily with the weather. A path clear one week may be buried the next. The following information is based on typical seasonal operations, but verification is essential before each visit. We’ve included a dedicated protocol at the end of this guide to help you do just that. Your safety and your pet’s comfort are the highest priorities.

🐾 For the Low-Energy Companion: The Gentle Wanderer

Ideal for: Senior dogs, small breeds, puppies, or sensitive souls who prefer a gentle, sensory experience.

1. Grass River Natural Area – Alba Loop

📍 Location: 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round, sunrise to sunset. Managed by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC).
❄️ Winter Specifics: The boardwalks and trails are not maintained in winter. Access is on a hike-at-your-own-risk basis over snow and ice. The parking lot is plowed, but conditions can be uneven.
Length: 0.8 miles (loop)
Terrain: Flat, with raised boardwalk sections over wetlands.
Why we love it for low-energy dogs: The boardwalks protect delicate paws from deep snow, and the completely flat, short loop provides mental stimulation from the winter-quiet wetlands without physical strain. It’s a peaceful, protected sensory experience.

2. Torch River Nature Preserve – Riverside Stroll

📍 Location: Williamsburg Rd (just off US-31), Elk Rapids, MI 49629
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round, sunrise to sunset. A GTRLC preserve.
❄️ Winter Specifics: The parking lot may not be plowed after heavy snow. The trail is not maintained, becoming a snow-packed path from foot traffic. Always have a backup plan if the lot is inaccessible.
Length: 1 mile out-and-back
Terrain: A gentle, flat path along the slow-moving Torch River.
Why it works: The calming sound of water flowing under ice creates a uniquely serene atmosphere. It’s rarely crowded, offering a quiet, sniff-filled walk perfect for a contemplative pup.

📝 Northern Paws Tip for Low-Energy Walks: Invest in a fitted, insulated jacket for senior or small-breed dogs to help conserve their core warmth. Bring a portable pad for dry rest breaks. The goal is engagement, not endurance.

🐕 For the Medium-Energy Explorer: The Balanced Adventurer

Ideal for: Healthy adult dogs who enjoy a good mix of exercise, exploration, and investigation.

1. Maplehurst Natural Area – Middle Loop

📍 Location: Maplehurst Rd, between US-31 and Jordan River Valley, Central Lake, MI 49622
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round. A GTRLC preserve.
❄️ Winter Specifics: The gravel parking area is not reliably plowed. The trails are not maintained, but often become well-packed by snowshoers and hikers. Best visited a few days after a snowfall.
Length: 2.2 miles (loop)
Terrain: Rolling hills through mixed forest and meadow.
Why it’s perfect: The varied terrain provides just enough physical challenge, while the changing scenery from pine forest to open meadow offers endless olfactory interest. It feels like a true adventure without being overwhelming.

2. Antrim Creek Natural Area – Forest to Shore Trail

📍 Location: 10621 US-31 N, Ellsworth, MI 49729
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round. A state-designated Natural Area.
❄️ Winter Specifics: The main parking lot on US-31 is plowed. The trail down to the lake is not groomed and can be steep and slippery when icy. Use extreme caution near the frozen, wave-splashed shoreline.
Length: 1.5 miles (out-and-back to shoreline)
Terrain: A moderate descent through hardwoods to a rocky Lake Michigan shore.
Why we recommend it: The reward—a dramatic, icy Lake Michigan vista—is unparalleled. The journey down is an engaging challenge, and the trek back up provides solid cardiovascular work for a fit dog.

📝 Northern Paws Tip for Medium-Energy Walks: This is the perfect energy level for practicing trail manners. Use natural pauses to reinforce “wait” or “look.” Carry a thermos of warm water to encourage hydration in the cold.

🏡 Hyper-Local Gems: Our Favorite Town-Adjacent Trails

Ideal for: Combining a true nature fix with the charm of our local communities. Perfect for when time is short but the call of the trail is strong.

1. Alden Quiet Pathway (Alden Rails-to-Trails)

📍 Trailhead: Corner of Custer St & Helena St, Alden, MI 49612
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round.
❄️ Winter Specifics: This paved pathway is not plowed or groomed. Its usability depends entirely on snowfall and community foot traffic. It’s often walkable within days of a storm as a path gets packed down.
Length: 1.8 miles one-way (3.6 miles out & back)
Terrain: Flat, wide, paved surface (buried under snow).
The Vibe: A serene, forested corridor that feels wonderfully remote, just minutes from Alden’s charming downtown. It’s a meditative escape.

2. Central Lake's North Street Trail

📍 Location: North Street Trailhead (at the end of N. Main St/North Street, near the wastewater treatment plant), Central Lake, MI 49622. Look for the pathway kiosk.
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round. Part of the Central Lake Pathways system.
❄️ Winter Specifics: This is a gravel/crushed limestone pathway. The village does not routinely plow it, but due to its popularity for walking, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking, it often becomes well-packed and walkable shortly after a snowfall. The parking area is small and may not be cleared.
Length: Approximately 1 mile out-and-back (2 miles total) along Finch Creek toward Veteran's Memorial Park.
Terrain: Perfectly flat, following the gentle grade of the old railway bed along scenic Finch Creek.
The Vibe: This is the quintessential easy-access local trail. It’s where neighbors walk their dogs year-round. In winter, it becomes a quiet, snowy tunnel through the trees, with lovely views of the creek. It’s ideal for a reliable, peaceful stroll without having to drive anywhere.

3. Torch River Nature Preserve – Riverside Stroll

(Listed above in Low-Energy, but perfectly fits this category for Elk Rapids locals.)

Why We Love Town-Adjacent Trails: They offer the profound benefit of nature immersion with minimal commute, seamlessly weaving outdoor wellness into daily life. They’re a testament to the accessible beauty of Antrim County.

🐕‍🦺 For the High-Energy Athlete: The Boundless Spirit

Ideal for: Sporting breeds, working dogs, and any dog whose engine seems to run on pure joy and cold air.

1. Glacial Hills Pathway & Natural Area – Bear Paw Loop

📍 Location: 03920 Ernst Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round, but with critical seasonal shifts.
❄️ Winter Specifics (CRITICAL): Glacial Hills is a groomed, multi-use trail network. From approximately December through March, primary trails are groomed for classic and skate skiing. Dogs are prohibited on groomed ski trails. However, specific trails or a dedicated lane are often set aside for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking. You must check the official “Friends of Glacial Hills” website or Facebook page for the current “Winter Trail Use Map” to know where you can legally and safely walk with your dog.
Length: 4.5 miles (loop with options to extend)
Terrain: Significant, rolling hills on winding single-track.
Why it’s the ultimate: When accessed correctly, it offers unparalleled, heart-pumping adventure with stunning ridge-top views. The packed snow provides fantastic traction for running.

2. Chain O’Lakes State Park – Multi-Use Trails

📍 Location: 04200 US-31 N, Ellsworth, MI 49729
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round. Park requires a Recreation Passport.
❄️ Winter Specifics: Like Glacial Hills, this is a multi-use, groomed system. Trails are designated for specific uses: skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking. Dogs are only permitted on designated hiking/snowshoe trails. They are strictly prohibited on groomed ski trails. You must check the Michigan DNR website or park signage for the current winter trail map.
Length: 3–5 miles of interconnected trails (network style).
Terrain: Rolling, forested terrain with climbs near the lakes.
Why it works: The trail network allows you to customize a long, stimulating route. The frozen lake vistas through the trees are breathtaking and well worth the effort.

📝 Northern Paws Tip for High-Energy Walks: Boots are non-negotiable to protect against ice balls, salt, and abrasion from packed snow. Monitor for overheating—high-energy dogs may not self-regulate in the cold. Post-adventure, check legs and paws for tiny cuts from ice crystals.

⛰️ For the Aspiring Adventurer: The Elevation Seeker

Ideal for: Fit dogs and owners ready for a heartier climb and stunning payoffs. A perfect "next step" from the medium-energy trails.

Coy Mountain Natural Area – Summit Loop

📍 Location: Eckhardt Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615. (Approximately 3 miles southeast of downtown Bellaire. Look for the signed parking area on the north side of Eckhardt Rd.)
📅 Seasonal Access: Year-round, sunrise to sunset. A Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC) preserve.
❄️ Winter Specifics: The gravel parking area is not plowed. Access may require parking carefully along the wider shoulder of Eckhardt Rd after significant snow. The trails are not maintained in winter. The climb to the summit can be steep and extremely slippery with snow and ice. Traction devices (like Yaktrax or microspikes) for humans are highly recommended. This is an adventure for prepared hikers on stable winter days.
Length: 2.5-mile loop to the summit and back (multiple trail combinations possible).
Terrain: Steep, sustained climbs to the summit ridge, with some of the most dramatic elevation changes in the county for a trail of its length. Rocky and rooted in sections.
Why it's a standout: This trail delivers a true mountain feeling. The 360-degree panoramic view from the Coy Mountain summit is breathtaking year-round, but in winter, when the leaves are down and the landscape is snow-covered, it is absolutely spectacular. It’s a challenging but achievable adventure that makes both you and your dog feel like explorers. The sense of accomplishment is immense.

📝 Northern Paws Tip for Coy Mountain: This is a commitment, not a casual stroll. Ensure your dog is leash-reliable with good recall, as the steep slopes near cliffs require control. The climb generates heat—be prepared to layer down for your dog during the ascent and layer up at the windy summit. Absolutely do not attempt if the trail is glare ice.

🔍 The Northern Paws Trail Verification Protocol

We never assume. Before any adventure—for our clients or ourselves—we follow this checklist:

Consult Official Sources: This is your first and most crucial step.
- State Parks: Michigan DNR Park Explorer Page & individual park pages.
- Conservancy Lands: Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC) Preserve Details.
- Groomed Networks: Friends of Glacial Hills and Chain O’Lakes State Park websites/Facebook pages for the current Winter Use Map.
Check Recent User Reports: Apps like AllTrails can provide real-world condition updates and photos from recent visitors.
Make the Call: A quick phone call to the park office or managing township can resolve uncertainties about parking lot plowing.
Always Have a Plan B: Choose a secondary, more accessible location (like a plowed township park) in case your first choice is unexpectedly closed or unsafe.

❄️ Universal Winter Trail Safety & Etiquette

For Your Dog: Use paw protection (balm or boots), ensure visibility with lights/reflectors, and provide frequent water breaks. Never allow your dog on frozen lakes or rivers.
For the Trails: LEASH YOUR DOG. Respect all seasonal trail designations (e.g., no dogs on ski trails). Yield to skiers and snowshoers by stepping completely off the packed track. Pack out all waste.

The Northern Paws Promise

This guide embodies our approach: knowledgeable, prepared, and deeply attuned to the individual needs of the animal in our care. We don’t just walk dogs; we craft experiences that respect their nature and the nature surrounding us.

Looking for a worry-free winter adventure tailored to your dog’s spirit? Our Seasonal Adventure Walks handle all the research, safety planning, and gear. We match the trail to your dog’s energy, document the journey, and ensure they return home happily tired and thoroughly cared for.

Let us help you honor your dog’s adventurous spirit, safely and seamlessly.

Rooted in Care. Guided by Compassion.— The Northern Paws Team