Let’s face it: we’re not all equipped for heavy-duty hiking. Whether by choice or by physical limitations, some of us are restricted to more leisurely walks when we choose to experience natural wonders in Michigan by foot. If you’re on the lookout for top-notch hiking options that won’t drain all of your energy, here are ten of the best hikes in Michigan that will allow you to enjoy the great outdoors without overexertion.

1. Maybury State Park Trail (Northville)
Maybury State Park, 49601 Eight Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48167, USA
Flickr/ellenm1
This 3.1 mile loop trail near Northville is a popular spot for hikers of all skill levels, as well as mountain bikers and cross country skiers. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife — hikers have reported spotting owls and other amazing creatures during their walk at Maybury. You might just want to spend all day exploring this beautiful trail in Michigan.
2. Empire Bluff Trail (Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore)
Empire Bluff Trailhead, Parking lot, Wilco Rd, Empire, MI 49630, USA
Flickr/life_is_good_pete
If you’re searching for a an absolutely stunning view of Sleeping Bear Dunes, which reigns supreme as one of Michigan's top natural attractions, without an overly strenuous hike, Empire Bluff Trail is the spot for you. This family-friendly walk will take you on a 1.6-mile hike to the incredible Empire Bluff Overlook. The views of Lake Michigan seem to extend forever from atop this delightfully sandy locale.
3. Pigeon Creek Park (West Olive)
Pigeon Creek Park, 12524 Stanton St, West Olive, MI 49460, USA
Flickr/Norm Hoekstra
Tucked away in West Olive near the shores of Lake Michigan, this park offers a breathtaking walk through some of Michigan’s most towering forest views. The 2.8-mile loop will take you past a beautiful river and is pet-friendly, so bring your four-legged pals along on their leashes for an awesome adventure. No matter the season, there's something to explore at Pigeon Creek Park.
4. Miners Falls Trail (Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore)
Miners Falls Trail, Munising Township, MI 49862, USA
Flickr/James Marvin Phelps
If you want to experience one of Michigan’s most beautiful and soothing waterfalls, venture northward out to Miners Falls Trail within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It’s accessible from May until October and includes a 1.2-mile out and back trail. Be sure to add this spot to your Upper Peninsula must-visit list.
5. Yankee Springs State Recreation Area (Middleville)
Yankee Springs State Rec Area - Chickadee Cabin, Middleville, MI 49333, USA
Flickr/pattycolburn
Venture to the community of Middleville to check out Yankee Springs State Recreation Area, where you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of wildflowers during the warmer months. In total, the trail comprises a 10.9 mile loop, so wear your best boots if you're planning to embark on an all-day adventure. Despite its length the hike features largely level terrain.

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6. Lansing River Trail (various locations, Lansing)
Lansing River Trail, Lansing, MI 48910, USA
Flickr/Jeff B.
This popular trail in Lansing is used primarily for bicycling, but it can be used for walking and running, as well. It covers 6.9 miles of land and is easily completed by athletes and outdoor enthusiasts of varying skill levels, whether you're a local or an out-of-town visitors who's made your way to Lansing for an awesome Michigan day trip.
7. Chapel Trail/Mosquito Falls Loop (Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore)
Mosquito Falls, Munising Township, MI 49884, USA
Flickr/David Marvin
This dog-friendly trail within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula is one of the most stunning hikes in the state. It’s suitable for beginning hikers and covers a loop that leads to — you guessed it — Mosquito Falls. When you want to immerse yourself fully in the beauty of Michigan's nature, look no further.
8. Macomb Orchard Trail (Shelby Township)
Macomb Orchard Trail, Michigan, USA
TripAdvisor/Wildcat_Rudy
Whether you’re on foot, horseback, or with your canine companion, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the scenery along Macomb Orchard Trail. The full trail offers 23.6 miles of space to be enjoyed by all skill levels and features a flat landscape for easy access. You could visit this spot time and time again and never see everything Macomb Orchard Trail has to offer.
9. Wildwing Trail (Milford)
Milford, Milford Charter Twp, MI 48381, USA
Flickr/ellenm1
Between the months of March and January, outdoor enthusiasts flock to this trail within Kensington Metropark, which circles Wildwing Lake near Milford. In addition to its nearly 2-mile loop of easy hiking, it features plenty of ideal spots for birdwatching. Nature enthusiasts will quickly fall in love.
10. Kal-Haven Trail (Kalamazoo)
Kal-Haven Trail State Park, 4143 10th St N, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, USA
Flickr/Philip Brewer
Head to Kalamazoo and take an awesome hike along some of Kal-Haven's 34 miles of trail space. It’s also a great spot to take a leisurely bike ride with the family. These opportunities for adventure are only enhanced by the trail's stunning views of local flowers and wildlife.

Have you and your loved ones been lucky enough to explore any of these easy hikes in Michigan? Which of your favorites made (or didn’t make) the list? We’re always eager to hear from our readers, so share your thoughts in the Facebook comments or recommend another amazing outdoor attraction in Michigan by completing our nomination form.

Can’t get enough natural beauty? If so, you’ll surely want to read about more of the best hikes in Michigan.

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Best Hikes In Michigan

Sophie Boudreau | March 02, 2022

Are there any year-round hikes in Michigan?

Hiking shouldn’t be reserved solely for the warmer months, and all Michiganders know that warm weather isn’t present year-round here in the Great Lakes State. Luckily, there are plenty of scenic hikes in Michigan that remain accessible in every season, including favorites like the beautiful Pine Baron Pathway and the many trails at Kensington Metropark. For more, be sure to read about our favorite winter hikes in Michigan. 

What are some of the best things to do in Michigan for nature lovers?

Nature fanatics will have an absolute field day exploring Michigan. After all, our state is home to world-class beaches, incredible forests, top-notch campgrounds, and all sorts of exciting natural wonders that can be explored by foot, boat, bike, ski, and more. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a natural wonders bucket list for Michigan that includes activities like kayaking at Turnip Rock and hiking to Tahquamenon Falls. Does it get much more wonderful than this?

Are there any great indoor activities in Michigan?

While we’re partial to the great outdoors, we realize that indoor activities are preferred by many Michiganders and tourists. Luckily for those who visit or reside here, there are ample ways to spend time indoors. Museums, art galleries, quaint shops, restaurants, and more are just a few of the things that our region does best – and our list of affordable rainy day activities in Michigan will keep you entertained. 

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