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Best backpacking hikes in Michigan
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Best backpacking hikes in Michigan

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Michigan.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Little Garlic Falls Trail

Marquette County, Michigan · star 4.6 (28) · 12.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 46 min

2

Easy

Spring Lake State Forest Campground via Fife Lake Trail

Grand Traverse County, Michigan · star 4.5 (35) · 32.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 44 min

3

Easy

CRooked Lake and Silver Lake Loop via Potawatomi Trail

Washtenaw County, Michigan · star 4.7 (31) · 13.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 51 min

4

Easy

Chief Pontiac Hiking Trail

Oakland County, Michigan · star 4.5 (26) · 10.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 26 min

5

Easy

Penoyer and Hoist Lakes Trail

Alcona County, Michigan · star 4.4 (24) · 12.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 41 min

6

Easy

Summit Peak, North Mirror Lake and Correction Line Loop Trail

Ontonagon County, Michigan · star 4.5 (22) · 26.1 km · Est. 6 hrs 10 min

7

Easy

Hoist Lake Loop Trails

Alcona County, Michigan · star 4.5 (24) · 24.5 km · Est. 5 hrs 34 min

8

Easy

North Mirror Lake Trail

Ontonagon County, Michigan · star 4.5 (34) · 13.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 18 min

9

Easy

Moskey Basin Access Trail

Keweenaw County, Michigan · star 4.5 (28) · 33.7 km · Est. 7 hrs 5 min

10

Easy

Waterloo Pinckney Loop Trail

Jackson County, Michigan · star 4.5 (30) · 17.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 11 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Michigan

Daniel Mayer DDS avatar

Little Garlic Falls Trail

JourneyScout81 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Ilona Halvorson avatar

Spring Lake State Forest Campground via Fife Lake Trail

FjordNaturelover44 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Geneva Reilly avatar

CRooked Lake and Silver Lake Loop via Potawatomi Trail

ClimberAdventurer65 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Spencer Kassulke avatar

Chief Pontiac Hiking Trail

WaypointScrambler11 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Delphine Raynor avatar

Penoyer and Hoist Lakes Trail

RidgeHikerlife14 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes 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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