Springtime is the ideal season for family exploration, especially among those who enjoy outdoor adventures in Michigan. Temperatures are warm and pleasant, but not quite scorching hot enough to make physical activity uncomfortable. Luckily for those of us who call Michigan home, the vibrant spring months also provide plenty of natural beauty that adds an extra dose of magic to our fresh air outings.
If you’re ready to embrace the many delights of the season, check out the best hikes in Michigan to enjoy during the springtime. These nine gems are breathtaking and beginner-friendly, so you might just want to bring the entire household along when you head out to stroll.
1. Aman Park Loop (Grand Rapids)
Aman Park, 0 -1859 Lake Michigan Dr, Grand Rapids, MI 49534, USA
If you find yourself in the scenic West Michigan area, Aman Park Loop offers one of the state’s top springtime hiking options. Typically beginning in April, lovely wildflowers abound throughout this 2.3-mile loop trail, which is also dog-friendly for leashed canines. During your leisurely stroll, you’ll catch glimpses of Sand Creek among the gorgeous greenery and foliage. Talk about a perfect place to stretch your legs when temperatures rise.
2. West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve Trail (West Bloomfield Township)
West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve, 4655 Arrowhead Rd, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48323, USA
Visitors of all ages will find plenty to appreciate along the West Bloomfield Woods Nature Trail, a calm 2.1-mile loop that doubles as a fantastic spot for bird-watching and other natural exploration. Given its local popularity, the trail might not be empty when you stop by to hike - but you’ll still feel a sense of serenity as you meander along this beautiful pathway.
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3. Fern Lake Loop (raverse City)
Timbers Recreation Area, 7997-7825, Timbers Trail, Traverse City, MI 49685, USA
As its name suggests, the delightful Fern Lake Loop sits along the enchanting shores of Fern Lake in Traverse City’s Timbers Recreation Area. At just two miles long, this trail is well-marked for your convenience and perfect for family adventuring. From towering timber to waterfront beauty, there’s so much to see as you make your way along Fern Lake Loop - and you might just want to return to the Traverse City area time and time again to experience this space's scenic atmosphere.
4. Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary (White Cloud)
Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary, 4794 N Felch Ave, White Cloud, MI 49349, USA
If you’re a total sucker for springtime wildflowers (and, let’s face it, who isn’t?), you’ll absolutely adore Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary and its serene hiking space. Situated within the Huron-Manistee National Forest, this destination will sweep you away to a wonderful springtime paradise. Whether you opt for the short loop, which spans just .5 miles, or the full 1.5-mile loop, you’ll surely spot flowers like columbine, milkweed, and many more. Bring along your camera to snap a few images of this gorgeous space.
5. Miners Falls Trail (Munising)
Miners Falls Trail, Munising Township, MI 49862, USA
Nothing captures the whimsical nature of Michigan’s wildlife quite like a breathtaking waterfall, and the Munising area is chock full of such treasures. Miners Falls Trail offers an out-and-back hiking experience that extends for just over a mile, so you can make an easy day trip of it during your next Upper Peninsula tour. Of course, the waterfall itself steals the show here, so prepare to be amazed as you venture through the area.
6. Knauf Park Trail (St Joseph)
Knauf Park, 1126-1052 Vineland Rd, St Joseph, MI 49085, USA
Situated near the heart of St. Joseph in Michigan’s southwest region, Knauf Park Trail is a 2.4-mile out and back pathway that’s especially scenic when springtime rolls around. Featuring wildflowers, greenery, forested sections, and easy-to-traverse terrain, this trail is an awesome option for families seeking a dose of fresh air - especially if your kids need to work off a bit of extra energy during spring break. This is one wholesome outing that you won't soon forget.
If you’re seeking a more extended hiking adventure, opt for Chippewa Trail in Midland. At 7.2 miles out and back, this calm and naturally stunning spot connects downtown Midland with Chippewa Nature Center and features all sorts of scenery along the way. During the spring months, the path seems to bloom with vibrant greens and ample sunshine. You’ll even spot glimpses of the Chippewa River at both ends of the trail.
It’s easy to understand why we’ve included the ever-popular Nichols Arboretum on our list of must-experience springtime hiking spots in Michigan, as this 123-acre wonderland simply explodes with wildflowers and other blooms as temperatures rise each spring. Guests can select from multiple trails, including the Forest Trail and the Prairie Trail, each offering its own charm and scenery. Whether you're a University of Michigan student or an out-of-town visitor, you'll find lots to love at "the Arb."
If you’re fully obsessed with Lake Michigan, Empire Bluff Trail is an absolute must-visit. In fact, many Michiganders have likely checked out this spot during previous adventures, but spring brings a whole new sense of magic to this dune-side stroll. The trail itself is just 1.5 miles out and back, but the brilliant blues of the Big Lake seem to extend endlessly into the horizon. Don’t forget your camera during this trek, as the views are truly world-class.
Have you and your nature-obsessed loved ones explored any of the best hikes in Michigan during previous springtime outings? Did we leave any of your favorite spring hikes in Michigan off our list? We’re always eager to hear from you, so be sure share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or make an official recommendation by filling out our official nomination form.
If you’re looking for even more ways to embrace the beauty of our region, you might just want to read about some of the most scenic hikes in Michigan.
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More to Explore
Best Hikes In Michigan
Sophie Boudreau|March 02, 2022
Are there any kid-friendly hikes in Michigan?
Our article above details some of the best hikes in Michigan for beginners to enjoy during springtime, but you’ll be glad to know that these are just a few of the easy walking spots in our beautiful state. For hikers who like to explore with the entire family in tow, we recommend destinations like Pigeon Creek Park in West Olive, the lovely Lansing River Trail, or Shelby Township’s Macomb Orchard Trail. For a full list of the easiest hikes in Michigan, check out our previous article.
What are some of the best parks in Michigan?
Hiking is typically associated with parks and other outdoor spaces, so you might be wondering which parks are worth checking out here in the Great Lakes State. Of course, state parks are some of the best places to experience nature, and these 12 fantastically scenic state parks in Michigan will provide you with everything from trails to beaches to wildlife-viewing opportunities. Whether you’re at Silver Lake Sand Dunes or Ludington State Park, you’ll never run out of natural fun.
What are some of the other best outdoor activities in Michigan?
Stretching your legs along hiking trails is just one way to experience the great outdoors in Michigan. For those who adore nature, our state is nothing short of a dreamland, offering ample outdoor recreation options in every season. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled an outdoor bucket list for Michiganders that details everything from kayak journeys to scenic tours to top-notch camping spots. What’s not to love?
