This Iconic Hiking Path in a Michigan State Forest Is Our Favorite First Hike of the Year

Michigan is home to many absolutely stunning places that are sure to impress, many of which are especially wonderful in the winter. Upon first thought, hiking in the winter in Michigan sounds... cold, at best, but there are trails you're sure to fall madly in love with, especially with a blanket of snow on the ground. My favorite little-known hiking path in Michigan is the Muncie Lakes Pathway. It is a winter lover's dream, and I suspect you'll adore it as much as any summer hike. You might even come out the other side with a new appreciation for the art of hiking in the winter.

This stunning pathway is just over 6 miles long and was specifically designed for cross-country skiing and cold-weather hikes. It is a satisfying, moderately challenging loop trail, but I promise it's worth every ounce of effort—especially when covered in a layer of fresh white snow. Winter in Michigan is truly magical for those of us who are madly in love with it, and this trail is a perfect introduction to a new year.

On your first-of-the-year winter hike in Michigan, you'll pass through old-growth forests, wetlands from long ago, and a couple of frozen-over lakes that will amaze you. In winter, this trail is groomed for cross-country skiing, and it's easy enough that even beginners can likely handle it. Fat-tire biking is also encouraged. Just beware of ice and dress for the weather. As you may surmise, then, skiers and bikers commonly use the trail, so be sure to plan accordingly and stay out of their way if you're not among them. Getting run over by a cross-country skier is never fun.

The scenery along the Muncie Lakes Pathway is absolutely awe-inspiring. The natural world is amazing, and Michigan's natural wonders are just waiting to be discovered. Another one of my favorite aspects of the hike is that it's so easy to follow—it's scenic and easy to figure out, but keep an eye out for fallen trees that may be hidden beneath the snow.

The views of Muncie Lake are to die for, and I strongly suspect anyone who does this hike will fall madly in love with it—I sure have. The adventure here is second to none, and I can't express how perfect this hiking trail is for a wintertime outing. Of course, you'll want to come back later, during summer, when everything is breathtakingly green, as well as in fall, when the forest is ablaze with color.

For more information about this amazing hiking trail in Michigan and all its winter glory, check out its official AllTrails listing. Are you worried about forgetting something? Check out this incredible winter packing list that you can't live without. Do you have a favorite winter hiking trail in Michigan? Let me know about it by filling out our nomination form. When you're ready for your next winter adventure in the Great Lakes State, be sure to check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for some extra information.