These 10 Trails In Michigan Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places
Believe it or not, there are some amazing hiking trails in Michigan. The Great Lakes State is full of coveted hiking spots that delight visitors and locals alike. Whether you are an out-of-towner looking for a healthy dose of Michigan beauty or simply a local looking to indulge in pure Michigan majesty, there’s something here for you. Not sure where to start? These ten lovely destinations will knock your socks off:
This historical site is filled with wonder. Fayette Historic State Park features the ghost town of Fayette, which formerly housed one of the most prosperous iron-smelting operations in the UP. Visit it at 4785 II Rd, Garden, MI 49835.
Traversing along the banks of this river (which connects to Lake Charlevoix) will leave you rejuvenated. All in all, the Jordan Valley Pathway is 18 miles in length, but you only need to walk a short distance to understand the majesty of this spot. Find it near Deadmans Hill Rd, Elmira, MI 49730.
Ludington State Park Beach is a gem that locals and tourists alike are enchanted by. Its stretch of 5,300 acres is full of splendor and sand. Best enjoyed in the summer months, you can find this pretty place at 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431.
Encounter waterfalls, wetland boardwalks, and mesmerizing river banks along the 11 mile Manistee River Trail. You'll find yourself enchanted by this quaint and peaceful landscape that's 100% pure Michigan. Find it near Hodenpyl Trail, Mesick, MI 49668.
North Manitou Island is a slice of paradise. While it features 20 miles of shoreline, the island is only eight miles long. See how the climate of Lake Michigan allows this island to flourish and connect with nature during your visit. Find it near Leland, MI 49654.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most incredible places in all of Michigan, and tourists flock here as warm weather takes over the local landscape each year. This Lake Superior park is full of beauty, from the obvious namesake rocks to its waterfalls and verdant forests. Visit it at N8391 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862.
This park space has some 87 miles of hiking options. All in all, this park features 60,000 acres, and about half of that is an old growth forest with historic trees. Known locally as the "Porkies," this hiking spot is a breath of fresh air. Find it near 33303 Headquarters Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953.
When you're surrounded by flowing waterfalls, you feel refreshed and at peace. Sable Falls is actually located near Pictured Rocks, and it's a 75 foot cascade that's enchanting all year round. Look for it off of Sable Falls Road, Seney, MI 49883.
Dredging through the sandy dunes really is a swell workout. Fortunately for you fitness buffs, Saugatuck Dunes State Park features dunes as high as 200 feet. Explore this pretty park's 1,000 acres at6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423.
Talk about a peaceful UP excursion. This Marquette area landmark offers an overlook that is, arguably, one of the best in all of Michigan. Find it off of Co Rd 550, Marquette, MI 49855.
As you can see, there are quite a few amazing hiking trails in Michigan. Aren’t you ready to get out and get exploring?!
Address: Ludington State Park Beach, 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, USA
Address: Mesick, MI 49668, USA
Address: North Manitou Island, Leland Township, MI, USA
Address: Pictured Rocks, Munising Township, MI 49884, USA
Address: Porcupine Mountains, Carp Lake Township, MI 49953, USA
Address: Sable Falls, Burt Township, MI 49839, USA
Address: Saugatuck Dunes State Park, 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
Address: Sugarloaf Mountain, Marquette, MI 49855, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Amazing Hiking Trails In Michigan
October 04, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
Which state parks should I visit in Michigan?
If you have a chance to visit any state park in Michigan, you should take it! Each has its own personality. However, a few fan favorite state parks are Ludington State Park, Port Crescent State Park, and Maybury State Park.
Which hikes in Michigan are short and sweet?
There are all sorts of easy and short hikes in Michigan! Empire Bluff Trail Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is only a mile and a half in length, and Miners Falls Trail at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is even shorter.
What are the best beaches in Michigan?
Michigan has the most freshwater shoreline in the continental U.S., boasting 3,288 miles of beaches and beauty. We Michiganders may be biased, but any Michigan beach is sure to leave you mesmerized.
Address: 4785 II Rd, Garden, MI 49835, USA
Address: Elmira, MI 49730, USA
Address: Ludington State Park Beach, 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, USA
Address: Mesick, MI 49668, USA
Address: North Manitou Island, Leland Township, MI, USA
Address: Pictured Rocks, Munising Township, MI 49884, USA
Address: Porcupine Mountains, Carp Lake Township, MI 49953, USA
Address: Sable Falls, Burt Township, MI 49839, USA
Address: Saugatuck Dunes State Park, 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
Address: Sugarloaf Mountain, Marquette, MI 49855, USA
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Serena Maria Daniels is an award-winning freelance journalist in Detroit, by way of Chicago, by way of the West Coast. She writes about Michigan for OIYS. Serena enjoys learning about language and culture and taking road trips with her beagle Ralph.