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Best backpacking hiking trails in Michigan
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Best backpacking hiking trails in Michigan

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in Michigan.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Manistee River Loop

Manistee County, Michigan · star 5.0 (31) · 30.6 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

2

Easy

Midland to Mackinaw Trail from E Shearer Road to M 61

Midland County, Michigan · star 5.0 (19) · 29.7 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

3

Easy

Hodenpyl Dam Pond via North Country National Scenic Trail

Manistee County, Michigan · star 4.0 (20) · 30.8 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

4

Easy

Manistee River Trail

Wexford County, Michigan · star 5.0 (36) · 16.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 58 min

5

Easy

Jordan River Pathway Loop via Deadmans Hill

Antrim County, Michigan · star 4.0 (26) · 28.3 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

6

Easy

Little Garlic Falls Trail

Marquette County, Michigan · star 5.0 (28) · 12.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 46 min

7

Easy

Manistee River Trail - North Coates Highway

Manistee County, Michigan · star 5.0 (22) · 16.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 45 min

8

Easy

Spring Lake State Forest Campground via Fife Lake Trail

Grand Traverse County, Michigan · star 4.0 (35) · 32.2 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

9

Easy

North Manitou Island Loop

Leelanau County, Michigan · star 5.0 (25) · 26.3 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

10

Easy

Big Carp River Trail

Ontonagon County, Michigan · star 4.0 (29) · 26.1 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

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Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in Michigan

Rudolph Stark avatar

Manistee River Loop

PioneerSeeker21 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Fr. Antione Brown avatar

Midland to Mackinaw Trail from E Shearer Road to M 61

PassHollowtrekker40 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Bertie Pfannerstill avatar

Hodenpyl Dam Pond via North Country National Scenic Trail

GlacierTrailguardian16 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Doug Smith avatar

Manistee River Trail

GorgeRunner72 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Dr. Mathilde Johnston avatar

Jordan River Pathway Loop via Deadmans Hill

TrailfoxNaturelover85 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Michigan

What is the climate like for hiking in Michigan?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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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