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Best coastal hikes in Michigan
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Best coastal hikes in Michigan

Looking for hikes where the ocean's your soundtrack? These coastal routes let you hike with a sea breeze in your hair.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Michigan.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Coast Guard Park Loop

Ottawa County, Michigan · star 4.4 (27) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 12 min

2

Easy

North Country and Chapel Creek Trail - Miners Lake

Alger County, Michigan · star 4.5 (29) · 12.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 56 min

3

Easy

Chapel Lake - Chapel Rock Loop Trail

Alger County, Michigan · star 4.6 (26) · 16.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 44 min

4

Easy

Lake Minnawanna Loop - Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area

Lapeer County, Michigan · star 4.5 (25) · 7.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 32 min

5

Easy

Horseshoe Bay Trail - Lake Huron

Mackinac County, Michigan · star 4.6 (38) · 4.8 km · Est. 58 min

6

Easy

Lost Lake - Ridge - Island Loop Trail

Mason County, Michigan · star 4.3 (31) · 8.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 57 min

7

Easy

Presque Isle Park Loop

Marquette County, Michigan · star 4.5 (20) · 3.6 km · Est. 48 min

8

Medium

Cut River Bridge State Roadside Park

Mackinac County, Michigan · star 4.5 (35) · 1.7 km · Est. 29 min

9

Easy

Magoon Creek Nature Area Loop

Manistee County, Michigan · star 4.5 (22) · 2.1 km · Est. 28 min

10

Easy

Mackinac Island Loop

Mackinac County, Michigan · star 4.4 (21) · 12.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 37 min

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Reviews for coastal hikes in Michigan

Susanna Murazik avatar

Coast Guard Park Loop

PeakSkiwanderer90 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Lorelei Luettgen I avatar

North Country and Chapel Creek Trail - Miners Lake

VistaGraniterover83 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Lorrine Rice avatar

Chapel Lake - Chapel Rock Loop Trail

ValleyExpeditioner20 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Robin Ruecker avatar

Lake Minnawanna Loop - Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area

FrostCairntracker83 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Riley Blakeman avatar

Horseshoe Bay Trail - Lake Huron

Rileyblakeman4 · reviewed 9 months 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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