If you’re looking for a challenge for your next hike and don’t know where to start, I think I might have just the spot. Manistee National Forest is known for its beautiful scenery, but it also has some of The Best Hiking Trails in Michigan.

The Manistee River Section of the North Country Trail provides hours of beautiful scenery while also giving you a workout. You’ll find this trail in the north part of the park a few miles away from Wellston. You will want to pack extra GORP for this hike.

The North Country Trail is actually a massive connected trail system that spans across eight states. It starts in Vermont before following the Great Lakes into Michigan.
Carol On the Trail/AllTrails.com
From here it keeps heading north to the Upper Peninsula before making a turn west through Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota.
If these views don’t take your breath away, the changes in elevation might. Your calves will be thanking you after taking on this challenge.
Del Rockwell/AllTrails.com
With elevation gains rising above 2,000 ft., this is one of the Hardest Hikes in Michigan.
As the name suggests, this trail will follow the Manistee River. The full journey spans nearly eight hours.
Del Rockwell/AllTrails.com
The out-and-back trail is 19.2 miles long. This is considered a ‘hard’ hike so make sure you’re prepared and up to the challenge before heading out.

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This is a great hike for anyone with an adventurous dog. Dogs aren’t only allowed, they’re also allowed to roam off-leash on certain parts of the trail.
Brian Stover/AllTrails.com
A trail this good deserves to be shared with good boys.
This is one of the most popular sections of the North Country Trail, and that’s not hard to believe.
Krysta Bartok/AllTrails.com
The peak times to hike are between March and October, but this is also a great route for snowshoeing in the winter.
Due to its length, it’s not a bad idea to set up camp and sleep under the stars.
Joel Richardson/AllTrails.com
You’ll find numerous camping spots on this route. There’s nothing like starting a fire out in the wilderness.

You’d think the incredible views on this hike would land it on our list of Best Hikes in Michigan, but in fact, it’s earned its place due to its difficulty. Make sure you’re aware of the nearest park ranger and bring plenty of food and water. Many people who take this hike also say they love the elevation changes. Maybe you’ll feel the burn too when you mark this hike off your bucket list.

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North Country Trail/Manistee River Trail, Upper River Rd, Brethren, MI 49619, USA