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Best lake hiking trails in Kalamazoo County
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Best lake hiking trails in Kalamazoo County

Want a trail where the views are as smooth as the water鈥檚 surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature鈥檚 beauty鈥攍iterally鈥攚hile enjoying the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors.

Here are some great trails to explore in Kalamazoo County.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Asylum Lake Preserve Loop

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 5.0 (22) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 0 min

2

Easy

West Lake Nature Preserve Loop

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 4.0 (27) · 2.3 km · Est. 28 min

3

Easy

Kleinstuck Preserve Loop

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 5.0 (19) · 1.5 km · Est. 20 min

4

Easy

Spring Valley Lake Loop

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 5.0 (21) · 2.5 km · Est. 34 min

5

Easy

Yellow Loop Trail near Eagle Lake and Fort Custer Recreation Area

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 5.0 (17) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 22 min

6

Easy

Eagle Lake via Yellow, Green Trail

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 5.0 (31) · 23.6 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

7

Easy

Moab and Atwater Loop Trail

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 5.0 (25) · 6.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 27 min

8

Easy

Wintergreen Lake Loop

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 4.0 (24) · 2.7 km · Est. 34 min

9

Easy

Eagle Lake - Green Loop Trail

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 4.0 (33) · 11.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 26 min

10

Easy

Red Trail and Yellow Trail Loop - Eagle Lake

Kalamazoo County, Michigan · star 4.0 (20) · 12.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 42 min

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Reviews for lake hiking trails in Kalamazoo County

Candance Rowe avatar

Asylum Lake Preserve Loop

PebbleTrailblazer60 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Amb. Neda Koepp avatar

West Lake Nature Preserve Loop

WandererMeadowwalker45 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Hobert Miller avatar

Kleinstuck Preserve Loop

TundraWayfarer61 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Malik Corwin avatar

Spring Valley Lake Loop

RidgeBlazer65 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Busy Witch avatar

Yellow Loop Trail near Eagle Lake and Fort Custer Recreation Area

BusyWitch 路 reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Walked 2.6 km before turning around due to Izzy's ankle hurting. Will be back

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Kalamazoo County

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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