There’s nothing more breathtaking than hitting one of the best hikes in Michigan on a crisp, colorful autumn day. Crunchy leaves, fresh air, and a healthy workout — what’s not to love? While some of us could hike all day, others prefer shorter walks through nature. When you’re pressed for time or low on energy, here are nine amazing kid-friendly hikes around Michigan that are under three miles long.

1. Grand Haven Waterfront Trail (Grand Haven)
Grand Haven, MI, USA
Flickr/Jeff Hormann
Who says the beach is only for summertime? We Michiganders certainly know better. Bundle up and take a stunning stroll alongside the shores of Lake Michigan with a journey down this 2.5 mile (one-way) trail, which begins at Grand Haven State Park and ends near Coho Drive. Read more about Grand Haven State Park.
2. Empire Bluff Trail (Empire)
Empire Bluff Trail, Empire Township, MI 49640, USA
TripAdvisor/Kredit
This 1.5-mile round trip trail takes visitors through lush forestry and plenty of delightful fall foliage before giving way to lovely views of Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes. It's truly one of the most scenic hikes in Michigan. Marvel at the scenery before venturing back to your car and continuing your drive along the National Lakeshore. Learn more about Empire Bluff Trail.
3. Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary Trail (West Bloomfield Township)
Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary, 4700 Pontiac Trail, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48324, USA
AllTrails/Michelle Childers
Located in West Bloomfield Township, this looped trail stretches for just under a mile and is perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities. Along the way, you’ll catch pretty views of an inland lake and plenty of flora and fauna — including some of the most breathtaking colors imaginable during fall. Check out more about Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary.
4. Sable Falls Trail (Grand Marais)
Sable Falls Trail, Burt Township, MI 49839, USA
Flickr/James Marvin Phelps
If you love waterfalls and easy hikes in Michigan, this might just be the perfect hike for you. Located near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Grand Marais, this hike takes visitors directly to — you guessed it — Sable Falls. Marvel at the splendor of this waterfall, which makes for an incredibly picturesque scene in any season. Read more about Sable Falls.

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5. Rosy Mound Natural Area Trail (Grand Haven)
Rosy Mound Natural Area, 13925 Lakeshore Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417, USA
AllTrails/William Steele
This natural gem near Grand Haven is an absolute must-visit for Michiganders who love the great outdoors. From the parking area, you’ll find a 0.7-mile trail that includes 1,000 wooden steps up and down the dunes — so be ready to climb! During your hike, stop to admire marvelous views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding dune-lands before continuing directly to the beachfront. Learn more about Rosy Mound Natural Area.
6. Grass River Natural Area Rail Trail (Bellaire)
Grass River Natural Area, 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615, USA
Facebook/Grass River Natural Area
This trail, which sits near Bellaire, stretches for 2.2 miles through the peaceful Grass River Natural Area, complete with riverfront views, crushed gravel pavement, and a calm atmosphere that will help put any of your daily worries to rest. On a crisp fall afternoon, there’s no better place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Learn more about Grass River Natural Area.
7. Apple Blossom Trail (Iron River)
Apple Blossom Trail Iron River, Bike Trail, Iron River, MI 49935, USA
TrailLink/papaskis
This Iron River trail is incredibly unique in that it follows the route once traveled by trains making their way between area steel mines and larger cities like Chicago. Coming in at nearly three miles in length, the Apple Blossom Trail perfectly combines history and natural beauty for visitors of all ages. Read more about Apple Blossom Trail.
8. Dequindre Cut (Detroit)
Dequindre Cut, Dequindre Cut Greenway, Detroit, MI 48207, USA
Yelp/Alison B.
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind combination of nature and art without venturing too far from the comforts of a modern city, head to the Dequindre Cut in Detroit. Situated along the Detroit Riverfront, this marvelous greenway is covered with city-approved public art and often hosts special events for community members. Whether you ride your bike or walk, this two-mile urban pathway will steal your heart. Check out more about Dequindre Cut.
9. Miners Falls Trail (Munising)
Miners Falls Trail, Munising Township, MI 49862, USA
TripAdvisor/yowsah1
Just can’t get enough of those waterfall hikes? After completing the Sable Falls Trail, check out nearby Miners Falls. This 1.2 mile out and back trail is best visited between May and October. With a low difficulty level and magnificent views of the waterfall as it’s surrounded by fall foliage, you’ll be absolutely amazed. Read more about Miners Falls Trail.

Have you visited any of these beautiful trails? Did you take photos during your excursions? We’d love to see your pictures and hear your stories in the comment section below!

 

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Best Hikes in Michigan

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There are lots of amazing places to see fall foliage in Michigan in the autumn season. You can even take a fun road trip to discover many of them, all over the course of a day or two. It's worth the drive to get to any of the gorgeous havens for colorful leaves, but one of our favorites is Hiawatha National Forest in Gladstone, MI. The trees' vibrant colors are just breathtaking. Being totally surrounded by trees showing you the season is beginning is an experience you won't soon forget. There are so many photo opportunities that you won't even know where to start.

What is the weather like in the fall in Michigan?

Though winter weather in Michigan is often so cold you may want to stay inside wrapped in a blanket, fall weather in Michigan is much more temperate. It does range pretty widely from month to month, though, so keep an eye on the weather reports so you know what to pack if you're planning to visit during the autumn season. In September, average highs float at about 72 degrees and average lows at around 50 degrees. In October, you'll feel the crisp, cool air for which the season is known. The average high during this month is 60 degrees and the average low is 39 degrees. In November, the chill starts to creep in, with an average high of 46 degrees and an average low of just 30 degrees.

What are the best pumpkin patches in Michigan?

With classic fall weather that is perfect for autumn activities, you can't go wrong with any of the fun pumpkin patches in Michigan. Two of our favorites are Grandma's Pumpkin Patch in Midland and Maxwell's Pumpkin Farm in Beaverton. Either of these choices is ideal to take your whole family or friend group. You'll have a blast sipping on fall-themed drinks like apple cider and strolling through the patches looking for the perfect decor and jack-o-lantern pumpkins! You can't help but get extra excited about Halloween when you're here. The decorations and the idyllic fall atmosphere will make you feel like you just walked into a storybook. Have a great time!

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