The best hiking trails in Michigan

1433 Hiking Trails

"Michigan's trails unveil diverse landscapes, captivating wildlife, and breathtaking vistas for every adventurous spirit."

Michigan offers a hiker's paradise with its diverse landscapes, from the rugged cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to the serene beauty of Isle Royale. Traverse the lush forests of the Upper Peninsula, where waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear lakes, or explore the rolling dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Each trail unveils unique wildlife and breathtaking vistas, inviting you to immerse yourself in nature's splendor. Discover Michigan's trails and let adventure guide your steps!

Most popular trails

Medium

Shore To Shore Trail

Leelanau County, Michigan · star 5.0 (5) · 366.0 km · Est. 15 day

Medium

North Country Trail - Manistee River Trail Loop

Wexford County, Michigan · star 5.0 (6) · 35.0 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

Difficult

North Country Trail - Ohio

Hillsdale County, Michigan · star 5.0 (6) · 1689.6 km · Est. 2 mth 11 day

Easy

White Pine Trail

Kent County, Michigan · star 5.0 (7) · 151.3 km · Est. 6 day

Medium

North Country Trail - Michigan Southeast

Emmet County, Michigan · star 5.0 (4) · 967.0 km · Est. 1 mth 10 day

Medium

Potawatomi Trail

Livingston County, Michigan · star 5.0 (6) · 28.3 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

Medium

Iron Ore Heritage Trail

Marquette County, Michigan · star 4.0 (2) · 61.9 km · Est. 2 day

Easy

Highbanks Trail

Iosco County, Michigan · star 4.0 (3) · 20.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 17 min

Medium

Nordhouse Dunes

Mason County, Michigan · star 4.0 (7) · 18.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 12 min

Easy

Kal-Haven Trail

Van Buren County, Michigan · star 4.0 (3) · 62.8 km · Est. 2 day

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FAQs about hiking in Michigan

What is the climate like for hiking in Michigan?

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Michigan offers four distinct seasons for hikers. Summers (June-August) are warm but can be humid, which makes hiking along the lakeshore trails quite pleasant. However, winters (December-February) can be frigid with heavy snow, making trails suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

The spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons offer milder temperatures and less humidity, perfect for hiking. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall treats hikers to vibrant autumn foliage.
In summary, spring and fall are the best times for hiking in Michigan, with comfortable temperatures and stunning natural beauty. It's wise to check the local weather and trail conditions beforehand, for instance on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/).

Do I need a permit to hike in Michigan?

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Generally, hiking in Michigan doesn't require permits, but some state parks and recreational areas might require an entry fee or pass. For specific information about permits, contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/), which oversees most public lands in the state.

Is wild camping allowed in Michigan?

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Wild camping in Michigan is permitted in most national forests and some state forests, but regulations apply. Campers should respect Leave No Trace principles and consult the U.S. Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/hmnf/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=18536&actid=34) and Michigan Department of Natural Resources (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/) for specific rules.

Are there mountain rescue services in Michigan?

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In case of an emergency while hiking in Michigan, dial 911. Search and rescue operations are typically handled by county sheriff's departments in collaboration with local agencies. The Michigan Search and Rescue (https://www.musartf.org/) is a useful resource for additional safety information and guidelines.

Are there dangerous plants in Michigan?

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Michigan's diverse flora includes hardwoods, conifers, and blooming wildflowers. Particularly in spring, hikers can enjoy trilliums, violets, and lady's slippers. Michigan Flora Online (http://michiganflora.net/) provides detailed information about the state's plant life. Remember to respect all plant life and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Michigan?

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Michigan's fauna includes deer, squirrels, foxes, and occasionally black bears. Beware of ticks and mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. Carry insect repellent and check for ticks after hikes. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/) provides more detailed information on local wildlife.

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