Trails and Beaches and Parks Galore at Kirk Park
Beach-going is a Michigander favorite pastime, and Kirk Park is one of those beaches that keeps us coming back! Out of all the parks, beaches, and trails, Kirk Park stands among the best.
Kirk Park sits about halfway between Holland and Grand Haven, so it’s not too busy and even has an off-leash dog beach for our four-legged family members.
Kirk Park is one of over 50 walking trails in West Michigan.
Along with the off-leash dog beach, the park also boasts an additional beach, spectacular views from atop their wooded dunes, and fantastic cross-country skiing in winter months.
Kirk Park at a Glance
9791 Lakeshore Drive, West Olive, MI 49460
The natural hiking paths wind through hardwoods, creeks, and hills.
Tips for Your Family Trip to Kirk Park
Even though there is lots of shade throughout the park since it’s a forested dune, it’s full sun on the beach. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
There are NO lifeguards on duty at Kirk Park beach, so keep an eye on the little ones, and bring the PDF gear along.
Hike Through the Woods at Kirk Park
Most of the trails are through densely wooded terrain, so take mosquito and tick prevention measures.
The trail is 1.2 miles and is open year-round. It includes 500+ stairs, giving it a “difficult” rating, and also not making it suitable for strollers.
Dogs must be leashed while on the trail, but are allowed.
Leave strollers and wagons at home; while some paths have spots of paving, there is only a single barrier-free trail in the entire park.
While the playground is always a hit with kids, it is somewhat remote. Pro tip: to keep kids entertained without having to trek to the playground, bring plenty of beach activities and toys with you (shovels and pails, sports equipment, and even binoculars are a few ideas).
The hiking along the dune ridges involves many stairs (over 500!) and steep drop-offs, which may prove very challenging for some hikers.
Admission fees depend on the time of year you visit. There is a motor vehicle parking fee from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Check here for rates and to purchase passes.
Map of Grand Rapids Parks and Trails
Find your next outdoor adventure near you with this map of the best hiking trails, playgrounds, and parks in West Michigan.
With Kruse Park and Kirk Park dog beaches closed in 2020, where can dogs swim in Lake MI near Grand Haven in September? Thanks
Is the beach fenced in for the dogs?
Hi Teri, the dog beach is not fenced in, so if you have a pup who needs limits, leashes of any length are welcome.