You Can Hike in Two States in One Day on This Michigan Trail

The morning air in the Upper Peninsula carries a chill in early autumn. Standing on the eastern bank of the Montreal River, north of Ironwood, the sound of water fills the space between the pine trees. My boots crunch on the gravel path as I approach the State Highway 122 bridge. This is the western edge of Michigan, a landscape defined by dense forests and the expanse of Lake Superior to the north. Walking across this span of concrete and steel, I'm stepping out of one state and into another. If you're looking to hike two states at once in Michigan and Wisconsin, the North Country National Scenic Trail provides the route to experience this geographical novelty.

How This Michigan Trail Lets You Hike in Two States in One Day

Stretching over 4,000 miles across the country—from North Dakota to Vermont—the North Country National Scenic Trail is a massive undertaking for thru-hikers. However, you don't need to walk for months to experience this unique footpath. The trail winds through the Ottawa National Forest in the Upper Peninsula before meeting the Montreal River, which marks the border between the two states. By starting your hike on the Michigan side near Ironwood and heading west toward Saxon Harbor, Wisconsin, you cross the river and enter the Badger State. Cross-state hiking trails are rare, and this segment allows you to transition from Michigan into the woods of northern Wisconsin in a single afternoon.

Trail Overview: Terrain, Wildlife, and Sights

A hike along this segment of the trail requires preparation. The path is primarily packed dirt and gravel, with short bits of road walking, that winds through stands of hemlock, birch, and sugar maple. Moving along the river corridor, the sound of water is a constant soundtrack. Expect to encounter ravines and exposed roots, making sturdy footwear a necessity. Wildlife is abundant in this region; white-tailed deer are common, and hikers occasionally spot black bears or bald eagles near the water. Although exceedingly rare, you could even run into a moose or wolf. The physical sensation of the trail changes as it climbs away from the riverbed, offering elevated views of the forest canopy before descending back toward the banks of the river.

Before you set out on this hike, you'll need to keep some things in mind. There is no fee or permit required for day hiking this segment. The trail is open to the public year-round, but winter conditions in the Upper Peninsula are severe, often requiring snowshoes or cross-country skis to navigate—and even then, the snow may be too deep. I think it's best to plan your hike between late May and early October to avoid deep snow and seasonal road closures. Cell service is unreliable in the Ottawa National Forest, so be sure to bring a paper map or download one from AllTrails before leaving. Parking is available near the Highway 122 bridge, but the dirt lot is small, so arriving plan to arrive early to the trailhead just in case.

Nearby Attractions to Extend Your Adventure

Maximize your time in the area by exploring the surrounding towns and landmarks. South of the trail, the twin cities of Ironwood, Michigan, and Hurley, Wisconsin, offer a look into the region's mining history. You can walk the downtown streets to see historic architecture and grab a meal—like one of the regionally famous pasties—at a local eatery. After your hike, drive to the Superior Falls Scenic Area, located near the mouth of the Montreal River. Here, the water drops into Lake Superior against a backdrop of cliffs. The contrast between the trail and the falls highlights the region's varying terrain.

Traversing the Michigan-Wisconsin border on a cross-state hiking trail offers a sense of accomplishment that you don't get on a typical daily walk. The transition is marked not by a toll booth or an off-ramp, but by the flow of a river and a shift in the tree line—making it a sublime experience. So why not pack your boots and hit the road to experience this crossing for yourself? If you're ready to explore more adventurous destinations in Michigan, try out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to start building your travel plan.