Long hikes have their time and place, but often, a quick and easy stroll is all you need. Lake of the Clouds Trail offers just that, plus a wealth of breathtaking scenery and a sprawling lookout point. Take a look below for all the details about one of the best hikes in Michigan for clearing your head.

Clocking in at just 1.4 miles each way, Lake of the Clouds Trail is a Porcupine Mountains gem. You won't have to put in much effort to be rewarded with some of Michigan's most spectacular views.
AllTrails/Kiki Vonshine
With an elevation gain of just over 300 feet, the hike is accessible to all ages and skill levels. Kids especially love the boardwalk that crosses through a lush, jungle-like landscape teeming with unique vegetation.
AllTrails/Julie Joseph
The marshy terrain can get quite muddy and, at times, slippery – so watch your step! Be especially careful if you have small children, as the short bursts of incline plus uneven footing can prove quite dangerous.
AllTrails/Carolyn Scott

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Upon reaching the overlook, you'll be absolutely awestruck. Thick forest lines the pristine lake waters, creating a scene almost too breathtaking to be real.
AllTrails/Bridgette Burton
Sweeping panoramic views extend far as the eye can see, with mountain peaks towering in the distance. Even though this trail is fairly popular, deafening silence still permeates the summit.
AllTrails/Ben Hoese
Bring your four-legged friend along for some fresh air and exercise. This definitely beats a morning stroll around the neighborhood! You could sit up here for hours and take in the peaceful sounds of nature.
AllTrails/Bridget Jean
As the seasons change, so does the scenery along the trail. If you thought Lake of the Clouds was beautiful already, just wait until it's surrounded by the most striking fall foliage you've ever seen.
AllTrails/Danika Sutherland

Visit the AllTrails page to learn more! Have you ever hiked Lake of the Clouds Trail? Which hikes would be on your list of the best hikes in Michigan? We’d love to hear all about your experiences and ideas! Let us know, and check out our previous article for another easy hike: This Easy, 2.5-Mile Hike In Michigan Will Lead You Straight To The Shores Of Beautiful Lake Michigan.

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Best Hikes in Michigan

Tori Jane | March 12, 2022

What are some beautiful scenic hikes in Michigan?  

Michigan is an unsung paradise for folks who enjoy the outdoors by hiking. There are a couple thousand trails weaving all over the state, each of which is beautiful in its own way. That being said, we do have a few favorites! Some of our favorite scenic hikes in Michigan include the amazing Fern Lake Loop, near Traverse City; it’s home to some amazing views and a refreshing lake. Then, there’s the awe-inspiring Miner’s Falls Trail, near Munising; that one is short and sweet, at just over a mile long, and it leads to one of Michigan’s most awesome waterfalls! Who said you had to work hard to see some of our most amazing natural wonders? Not us. Finally, look into the famous Empire Bluff Trail, in Empire Township. It’s one and a half miles long, out-and-back, and it leads to absolutely incredible views of Lake Michigan. Want some more ideas? Check this article out! 

What are the best easy hikes in Michigan?  

As we said above, there are a couple thousand (literally more than 2,000!) hiking trails all over the state, and more than half of those are rated as easy. Some of our favorites are the above-mentioned Miner’s Falls Trail in Munising, as well as the awesome Miner’s Castle Trail and the Munising Falls Trail, both of which are located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Both are under a mile long, and one leads to Miner’s Castle and the other leads to two staircases with fairy tale views of some of our state’s most breathtaking landscapes. Many of Michigan’s easy hikes are easy enough to bring the kids along, and some are even paved and therefore stroller and/or wheelchair friendly. The best part about Michigan’s great outdoors is just how accessible a lot of it is.  

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