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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

Midland to Mackinaw Trail from E Shearer Road to M 61

Midland County, Michigan · star 4.5 (19) · 29.7 km · Est. 6 hrs 4 min

2

Easy

Manistee River Loop

Manistee County, Michigan · star 4.6 (31) · 30.6 km · Est. 6 hrs 58 min

3

Easy

Hodenpyl Dam Pond via North Country National Scenic Trail

Manistee County, Michigan · star 4.5 (20) · 30.8 km · Est. 7 hrs 28 min

4

Easy

Manistee River Trail - North Coates Highway

Manistee County, Michigan · star 4.6 (22) · 16.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 44 min

5

Easy

Waterloo Pinckney Trail and Potawatomi and Silver Lake Trail

Jackson County, Michigan · star N/A (0) · 55.6 km · Est. 2 days

6

Easy

Manistee River Trail

Wexford County, Michigan · star 4.6 (36) · 16.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 58 min

7

Easy

Nichols Lake via North Country National Scenic Trail

Newaygo County, Michigan · star 4.4 (28) · 27.9 km · Est. 5 hrs 51 min

8

Easy

Jordan River Pathway Loop via Deadmans Hill

Antrim County, Michigan · star 4.4 (26) · 28.3 km · Est. 6 hrs 26 min

9

Easy

Hoist Lake Loop Trails

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

10

Easy

Nordhouse Dunes Beach M9-1 Loop

Mason County, Michigan · star 4.6 (28) · 9.1 km · Est. 2 hrs

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Michigan

Fr. Antione Brown avatar

Midland to Mackinaw Trail from E Shearer Road to M 61

PassHollowtrekker40 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Rudolph Stark avatar

Manistee River Loop

PioneerSeeker21 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Bertie Pfannerstill avatar

Hodenpyl Dam Pond via North Country National Scenic Trail

GlacierTrailguardian16 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Patience Larson avatar

Manistee River Trail - North Coates Highway

TrailHikerlife81 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Waterloo Pinckney Trail and Potawatomi and Silver Lake Trail.

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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