Who says you have to spend the winter months cooped up indoors? After all, Michigan is home to an incredible assortment of outdoor activities that make for fantastic natural adventures when the chilly weather arrives. If you love to immerse yourself in the beauty of winter, be sure to visit these nine incredible winter hikes in Michigan that lend themselves well to cold-weather strolls.

1. Pyramid Point Trail (Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore)
Maple City, MI 49664, USA
TripAdvisor/SuperSisKris
Sleeping Bear Dunes is stunning all year long, but there’s something extra special about checking it out during the winter months. After a half-mile trek, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and spectacular glimpses of the surrounding snow landscapes. There’s no better place to appreciate the beauty of winter along Michigan’s lakeshores.
2. William Derby Nature Preserve Loop (M-134, Cedarville)
Michigan 134, M-134, Cedarville, MI, USA
Google Reviews/Eric Metzger
This 2.8-mile loop is ideal for families who want to enjoy a day hike without over-exerting themselves or committing to a longer journey. During the wintertime, many visitors choose to enjoy cross-country skiing throughout the preserve, but you can also traverse the trail with your snow boots alone. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, birds, and other wildlife throughout.
3. Wolters Woods Preserve (6281 147th Ave, Holland)
6281 147th Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
AllTrails/Sheila Smith
This hidden gem in Holland consists of largely flat terrain, towering trees, and a sense of magic that’s especially palpable when snow coats the ground. The trail itself measures in at just under one mile, so it’s perfect for a quick stroll with your sweetheart at your side. It’s easy to get in touch with a sense of inner peace as you explore Wolters Woods.
4. Pine Baron Pathway (Lone Pine Rd, Gaylord)
Lone Pine Road, Lone Pine Rd, Hayes Township, MI 49735, USA
Google Reviews/Chad Johnston
In total, this pathway consists of nearly nine miles of trails that lend themselves to hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more. You can explore the entire system or simply check out one of the interconnected loops that make up the area’s walkways. With its flat terrain and forested setting, Pine Baron Pathway is great for a family excursion during winter months.

Related Stories

Here Are the 6 Best Places To Go Sled Riding In Michigan This Winter

Here Are the 6 Best Places To Go Sled Riding In Michigan This Winter

 Sip A Hot Drink In A Life-Sized Snow Globe At This Michigan Restaurant This Winter

Sip A Hot Drink In A Life-Sized Snow Globe At This Michigan Restaurant This Winter

 A Peaceful Escape Can Be Found At This Remote Waterfront Trail In Michigan

A Peaceful Escape Can Be Found At This Remote Waterfront Trail In Michigan
5. Nichols Arboretum (1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor)
48104, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
AllTrails/John Metlzer
Head to Ann Arbor for a day of strolling throughout this 123-acre gem, which is beautiful all year long. During the winter, you’ll enjoy snow-capped trees, views of the frozen Huron River, and a sense of quietude that will make you feel like you’ve landed in a dreamy winter wonderland. After a day of walking in the Arb, as it’s affectionately known, be sure to check out the many delights of downtown Ann Arbor.
6. Holliday Nature Preserve (6935 N Hix Rd, Westland)
6935 N Hix Rd, Westland, MI 48185, USA
Google Reviews/flatmatt0
You’ll find a handful of trails to choose from at Holliday Nature Preserve, ranging in length from 0.1 miles to 1.5 miles. No matter which paths you choose to traverse, you’ll appreciate snow fields, riverfront and creekfront beauty, and a variety of winter wildlife. If you’ve ever checked out this spot in the summer, rest assured that it’s just as fantastic when temperatures drop.
7. Pigeon Creek Park (12524 Stanton St, West Olive)
12524 Stanton St, West Olive, MI 49460, USA
Google Reviews/Deanna McIntyre
For those who prefer evening hikes, Pigeon Creek Park is sure to delight with its lighted trail options. Snowshoe or stroll under lights as you appreciate the serenity of this 444-acre outdoor space, which also offers a sledding hill and on-site lodge. If you find yourself in West Michigan, there’s no better place to embrace the undeniable marvels of winter.
8. Paint Creek Trails (Oakland County)
Paint Creek Trail, Rochester, MI 48306, USA
Facebook/Paint Creek Trail
For a longer adventure, check out Paint Creek Trail, a rail-trail option that extends for 8.9 miles in Oakland County. Because it consists of a limestone base, the trailway is easy to enjoy in every weather condition - including snow. Gaze out at marshlands, prairies, and wooded wonders as you follow this peaceful path. Just don’t forget to bundle up before you venture out.
9. Clinton River Trail (Oakland County)
Pontiac, MI, USA
Facebook/Clinton River Watershed Council
If you’d like to spend even more time in Oakland County, make your way to the 16-mile Clinton River Trail, which provides year-round recreational options for the entire family. Michiganders will appreciate the combination of rural and urban settings along the trail, which extends through several Metro Detroit communities. Round up the family and get ready to stretch your legs.

Have you hiked along any of these wonderful winter trails in Michigan during years past? Which spots were your favorite? We always love to hear from you, so share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or recommend a chilly weather hiking locale by filling out our nomination form here.

If you love the great outdoors, check out this forested hiking and biking park in Michigan.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Winter in Michigan

William Suphan | November 24, 2022

What is winter like in Michigan?

This is what winter is like in Michigan:

  • The cold season for winter in Michigan lasts for 3.2 months, starting on December 1 and ending on March 7.
  • Low winter temperatures in Michigan range from 13°F to 19°F and the highs are from 29°F to 33°F.
  • Average annual snowfall during winter in Michigan ranges from 64 inches to as much as 179 inches, depending on the area.
  • The coldest winter temperature ever recorded was -51°F in 1934 in Vanderbilt.

Now that you know what winter is like in Michigan, find out about five historical winter storms that have taken place in this state. 

What are the most popular winter activities in Michigan?

The most popular winter activities in Michigan include:

You can do many of the most popular winter activities in Michigan at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. 

What are the best winter destinations in Michigan?

Some of the best winter destinations in Michigan are:

  • Frankenmuth. This little town has a Bavarian Village with several holiday events for a German-style Christmas season.
  • Traverse City. This is a local favorite for skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and other winter fun.
  • Boyne Mountain. With various resorts and skiing trails, Boyne Mountain is a great place to visit in winter. 
  • Headlands Dark Sky Park. This is a perfect place to cozy up with sleeping bags and hot beverages for some stellar stargazing.

Find out about 11 more of the best winter destinations in Michigan. 

Related Articles

Explore Michigan