Dogs permitted east of Alabama Ave.

Fox Creek Trail

Sugarcreek Trail

Sigrist Woods Trail

Really? I can bring my dog?
Yes, it’s true. In July 2005, the Board of Directors decided to allow leashed dogs on some of The Wilderness Center’s trails.

Which trails?
Leashed dogs are now allowed on the 3 trails to the east of Alabama Ave.—Sugarcreek, Fox Creek, and Sigrist Woods Trails.
Dogs are still not allowed on the trails to the west of Alabama Ave.—Pond Trail, Wilderness Walk, and Prairie Path. They are still not allowed in the Interpretive Building or Astronomy Education Building.

Why do the dogs have to be leashed?

This is for your dog’s safety, the safety of others, and the safety of the environment.
Trails are constructed to avoid dangerous areas, but your dog follows scents, not trails. Off leash, dogs can get lost or hurt if they head in the wrong direction. It also gives you control if you encounter other dogs.
We want the experience here to be pleasant for all our visitors. Unfortunately, some humans are afraid of even the gentlest dogs. Keeping your dog leashed helps relieve their fears and gives you control if they don’t know how to act around dogs.
TWC exists, in part, to preserve the plants, animals, and other nature found here. So, leashes ensures your dog won’t dig, run up and down fragile banks, catch wild animals, or do other doggy things that harm the environment.
You are responsible for your dog’s behavior. We are open to the public and cannot have dogs which present a threat to people, other dogs, or the wild animals found here.

OK, they have to be leashed. Any other restrictions?
Clean up after your dog! Pick it up and put it in a trash container.

Why is it important to pick up dog waste?
-Dog waste is bad for people. These wastes and the pathogens they contain (bacteria, parasites, and viruses) can harm human health. This contamination can make people sick with sore throats, intestinal problems, rashes, nausea, and eye and ear infections.
-Dog waste is bad for dogs and other animals. Native members of the canine family (like foxes and coyotes) and some other wild animals can also get diseases from dog waste.
-Dog waste is bad for the environment. When it rains, pet waste left on trails washes into streams, then lakes and the ocean. As pet wastes decompose, they use oxygen from water, which can kill fish and plant life by reducing the amount of dissolved oxygen available to them.

So why allow dogs at all?
People look for places to enjoy with the whole family, including their dogs. Yet, because of the irresponsibility of some owners, fewer places are allowing dogs. We see the need and trust our visitors to be responsible.

Remember:

-Dogs are welcome on the Sugarcreek, Fox Creek, and Sigrist Woods Trails only.

-Keep your dog leashed and under your direct control at all times.

-Pick up dog waste and dispose of it properly.