Winter hikes are one of my favorite things to do with my beagle, Brisco. We love exploring new trails, playing in the snow, and enjoying the fresh air. However, as he grows older sometimes the harder hikes through deep snow have been a bit more of a challenge for him. This winter, I was on a mission to find a location that offered easily accessible trails but also some dirt trails so we could experience the best of both worlds.
Valhalla Park in Holt, Michigan, fulfilled that need perfectly. With sections of both paved and dirt trails winding through scenic woodland and the option to extend the trail outside of the park, it created a wonderful hike for both Brisco and me.
The Trails
This is not a location to go if you want miles and miles of hiking. The park itself only has around 1.3 miles of trail. However, it does connect to the longer, paved Sycamore Trail which then connects to the Lansing River Trail. It is an excellent option for those looking to put in paved miles or biking miles.
We stuck to the trails within the park, both the main paved trail and the dirt off-shoot trails. Basically, where ever Brisco wanted to go, we went.
The trails are all well-maintained but the dirt trails do have the surprising root reaching up to trip you. There are also a few nice, steep hills along the trail that offer a bit more of challenge.
The paved trail is easy to follow but the dirt trails aren’t well marked. Luckily the park isn’t very big so navigation isn’t a major issue but it can be confusing as to which dirt trails will take you back to the parking lot, to the pond, or out to Sycamore Trail.
My favorite thing about this park is how quiet the trails were. This might not be in the in summer with the park having pavilions, sports fields, and a place to swim but in the winter it is incredibly peaceful.
Overall
This is a great set of trails for anyone with kids, aging dogs, or just looking for an easy, short hike in the woods. It is a pretty park that is clean, well-maintained, and very peaceful. Brisco and I both thoroughly enjoyed our time here in the winter and will be returning in the spring to hopefully enjoy a hike through wildflowers.
For more information about Vahalla Park, visit Dehli Charter Township.
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