Luckily for those of us who love the great outdoors, Michigan is a beautiful place to be all year long. Sure, we occasionally find ourselves frustrated by unpredictable temperatures and rogue snowstorms in the middle of spring, but the vast majority of the Great Lakes State is worth exploring in every season. As you look toward the new year, here are 12 of the best hikes in Michigan to add to your outdoor bucket list – one for each month.
January: Pigeon Creek Park
Google Reviews/Deanna McIntyre Our list of some of the best hikes in Michigan starts at the lovely Pigeon Creek Park. Kick off the new year with a dose of natural splendor as you stroll along the lighted paths at Pigeon Creek Park in West Olive, which remain open until 10 p.m. for after-dark adventures. With options for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding available on top of hiking, this is a wonderful place to be when winter weather is upon us. 12524 Stanton St, West Olive, MI 49460, USA
February: Kensington Metropark
Google Reviews/Ghi Zheng It’s tough to beat the romance of a peaceful walk with your sweetheart, so celebrate Valentine’s Day this February by strolling hand-in-hand along the multiple pathways at Kensington Metropark. The main trail here is paved and extends for 9.5 miles through woodlands that look utterly magical when coated in snow. With an easily traversable terrain, this hike is perfect for a sweet outing. You’ll quickly discover that Kensington Metropark is one of the best winter parks near Detroit. 4570 Huron River Pkwy, Milford, MI 48381, USA
March: Boardman Lake Trail
Google Reviews/Boho Mamó The weather can be even more unpredictable than usual in March, so we recommend opting for a hike that’s short, sweet, and close to civilization. The Boardman Lake Trail is just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Traverse City - and it extends for just two miles. Enjoy marvelous views of Boardman Lake and surrounding woodlands before calling it a day. It’s one of the most scenic late-winter adventures you can take in Michigan.
April: Chippewa Trail at Negwegon State Park
Google Reviews/Casey O’Rourke During April, the first signs of spring have many Michiganders longing to get outside. After a long, cold winter, why not appreciate views of our quickly thawing Great Lakes? One fantastic option for April is the Chippewa Trail at Negwegon State Park, which forms a loop and offers amazing glimpses of Lake Huron in all its splendor. You’re likely to spot a few creatures this time of year, so keep your eyes peeled for turkeys, deer, and a plethora of birds. Learn more about this beautiful, secret beach in Michigan. Negwegon State Park, Ossineke, MI 49766, USA
May: Windmill Island Gardens
Google Reviews/Rob Cossin For those who call West Michigan home, May signals the arrival of the Tulip Time Festival in Holland - not to mention all sorts of budding wildflowers throughout the state. For a small fee, visitors can walk the loop at Windmill Island in Holland and take a short, leisurely stroll past tulip gardens, the iconic DeZwaan Windmill, and so much more. Talk about a marvelous May adventure. This beautiful destination in Michigan is bucket-list-worthy. 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
June: Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary
Google Reviews/Kirk Schultz Can’t get enough of those early summer blooms? You’ll fall in love with the trail at Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary in White Cloud, which sits within the Huron-Manistee National Forest and offers two distinct hikes: one that extends for 1.5 miles and another that measures just a half-mile. Of course, the real attraction here is the abundance of wildflowers, which burst with color along both trails. Learn more about this secret garden in Michigan. 4794 N Felch Ave, White Cloud, MI 49349, USA
July: Empire Bluff Trail
Google Reviews/M S As temperatures rise throughout the state, you’ll want to spend more time along the lakeshore. Summer is an ideal time to visit the incredible Empire Bluff Trail, which consists of a 1.5-mile trek through dune lands, forests, and more to reach a remarkable view of the surrounding Sleeping Bear Dunes. You’ll want to bring along your camera for this hike, as the brilliant blue waters are nothing short of spectacular. Empire Bluff Trail might just be one of the most beautiful boardwalk trails in the U.S. Honor, MI 49640, USA
August: Canyon Gorge Trail
Google Reviews/Kiersten J Holstege Summer might be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor adventures are over. Take one last vacation to the Upper Peninsula and stretch your legs along the Canyon Gorge Trail near L’Anse. This 3.9-mile trek is an out-and-back adventure that provides unbeatable views of Canyon Falls and the gorge itself, sometimes known as the “Grand Canyon of Michigan.” The trail itself is beginner-friendly and the payoff is truly second to none. It’s no surprise that Canyon Gorge Trail is one of the top-rated natural attractions in Michigan! Old US Highway 41, Old US Hwy 41, Michigan 49946, USA
September: Nichols Arboretum Trails
Google Reviews/Sahm Litkouhi Pull your sweaters out of storage and lace up your hiking boots for an early autumn adventure at the Arb (Nichols Arboretum), a beloved spot in Ann Arbor. College students will be back on campus, but that shouldn’t stop you from checking out the changing leaves and Huron River views along this 123-acre park’s various trails. Options include the Riverfront Trail, the Forest Trail, and the Prairie trail - each offering plenty of natural beauty and fresh air. No matter the time of year, Nichols Arboretum makes for an excellent day trip destination in Michigan. 1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
October: Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Google Reviews/Venita S. There’s something utterly magical about Tahquamenon Falls during the autumn months, so hop in the car and head out for a hike at this Michigan must-see, which is home to six separate hiking trails. For a short and sweet option, check out the half-mile Tahquamenon Nature Trail. If you’re looking for more of an extended outdoor journey, try the 7.4-mile Tahquamenon Wilderness Loop. Did you know that Tahquamenon Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan? All the more reason to plan your adventure to this natural wonder! 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768, USA
November: Warren Dunes State Park
Google Reviews/Melanie Sahly Before the snow arrives in full force, enjoy an outdoor excursion at Warren Dunes State Park, which offers six stunning miles of trails along the shores of Lake Michigan. The longest options here offer mile-long strolls through forested swaths, dune lands, and sandy shorelines. Be sure to bundle up, as the lakefront is known for its chilly temps during late fall and early winter. 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125, USA
December: Paint Creek Trail
Facebook/Paint Creek Trail Last but not least on our list of the best hikes in Michigan is Paint Creek Trail. December is a month full of celebration, so you’ll want to round out your year of hikes with an extra-special experience. We recommend a winter stroll along the sprawling Paint Creek Trail, which winds through various communities in Oakland County and features stunning views of woodlands, prairies, and so much more. Can you imagine a better place to bid adieu to the year? Oakland County, MI, USA
Have you explored any of these incredible hiking trails in the Great Lakes State? Share your experiences with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another must-see trail and its most beautiful season by filling out our nomination form.
Google Reviews/Deanna McIntyre
Our list of some of the best hikes in Michigan starts at the lovely Pigeon Creek Park. Kick off the new year with a dose of natural splendor as you stroll along the lighted paths at Pigeon Creek Park in West Olive, which remain open until 10 p.m. for after-dark adventures. With options for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding available on top of hiking, this is a wonderful place to be when winter weather is upon us.
12524 Stanton St, West Olive, MI 49460, USA
Google Reviews/Ghi Zheng
It’s tough to beat the romance of a peaceful walk with your sweetheart, so celebrate Valentine’s Day this February by strolling hand-in-hand along the multiple pathways at Kensington Metropark. The main trail here is paved and extends for 9.5 miles through woodlands that look utterly magical when coated in snow. With an easily traversable terrain, this hike is perfect for a sweet outing. You’ll quickly discover that Kensington Metropark is one of the best winter parks near Detroit.
4570 Huron River Pkwy, Milford, MI 48381, USA
Google Reviews/Boho Mamó
The weather can be even more unpredictable than usual in March, so we recommend opting for a hike that’s short, sweet, and close to civilization. The Boardman Lake Trail is just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Traverse City - and it extends for just two miles. Enjoy marvelous views of Boardman Lake and surrounding woodlands before calling it a day. It’s one of the most scenic late-winter adventures you can take in Michigan.
Google Reviews/Casey O’Rourke
During April, the first signs of spring have many Michiganders longing to get outside. After a long, cold winter, why not appreciate views of our quickly thawing Great Lakes? One fantastic option for April is the Chippewa Trail at Negwegon State Park, which forms a loop and offers amazing glimpses of Lake Huron in all its splendor. You’re likely to spot a few creatures this time of year, so keep your eyes peeled for turkeys, deer, and a plethora of birds. Learn more about this beautiful, secret beach in Michigan.
Negwegon State Park, Ossineke, MI 49766, USA
Google Reviews/Rob Cossin
For those who call West Michigan home, May signals the arrival of the Tulip Time Festival in Holland - not to mention all sorts of budding wildflowers throughout the state. For a small fee, visitors can walk the loop at Windmill Island in Holland and take a short, leisurely stroll past tulip gardens, the iconic DeZwaan Windmill, and so much more. Talk about a marvelous May adventure. This beautiful destination in Michigan is bucket-list-worthy.
1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
Google Reviews/Kirk Schultz
Can’t get enough of those early summer blooms? You’ll fall in love with the trail at Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary in White Cloud, which sits within the Huron-Manistee National Forest and offers two distinct hikes: one that extends for 1.5 miles and another that measures just a half-mile. Of course, the real attraction here is the abundance of wildflowers, which burst with color along both trails. Learn more about this secret garden in Michigan.
4794 N Felch Ave, White Cloud, MI 49349, USA
Google Reviews/M S
As temperatures rise throughout the state, you’ll want to spend more time along the lakeshore. Summer is an ideal time to visit the incredible Empire Bluff Trail, which consists of a 1.5-mile trek through dune lands, forests, and more to reach a remarkable view of the surrounding Sleeping Bear Dunes. You’ll want to bring along your camera for this hike, as the brilliant blue waters are nothing short of spectacular. Empire Bluff Trail might just be one of the most beautiful boardwalk trails in the U.S.
Honor, MI 49640, USA
Google Reviews/Kiersten J Holstege
Summer might be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor adventures are over. Take one last vacation to the Upper Peninsula and stretch your legs along the Canyon Gorge Trail near L’Anse. This 3.9-mile trek is an out-and-back adventure that provides unbeatable views of Canyon Falls and the gorge itself, sometimes known as the “Grand Canyon of Michigan.” The trail itself is beginner-friendly and the payoff is truly second to none. It’s no surprise that Canyon Gorge Trail is one of the top-rated natural attractions in Michigan!
Old US Highway 41, Old US Hwy 41, Michigan 49946, USA
Google Reviews/Sahm Litkouhi
Pull your sweaters out of storage and lace up your hiking boots for an early autumn adventure at the Arb (Nichols Arboretum), a beloved spot in Ann Arbor. College students will be back on campus, but that shouldn’t stop you from checking out the changing leaves and Huron River views along this 123-acre park’s various trails. Options include the Riverfront Trail, the Forest Trail, and the Prairie trail - each offering plenty of natural beauty and fresh air. No matter the time of year, Nichols Arboretum makes for an excellent day trip destination in Michigan.
1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA
Google Reviews/Venita S.
There’s something utterly magical about Tahquamenon Falls during the autumn months, so hop in the car and head out for a hike at this Michigan must-see, which is home to six separate hiking trails. For a short and sweet option, check out the half-mile Tahquamenon Nature Trail. If you’re looking for more of an extended outdoor journey, try the 7.4-mile Tahquamenon Wilderness Loop. Did you know that Tahquamenon Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan? All the more reason to plan your adventure to this natural wonder!
41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768, USA
Google Reviews/Melanie Sahly
Before the snow arrives in full force, enjoy an outdoor excursion at Warren Dunes State Park, which offers six stunning miles of trails along the shores of Lake Michigan. The longest options here offer mile-long strolls through forested swaths, dune lands, and sandy shorelines. Be sure to bundle up, as the lakefront is known for its chilly temps during late fall and early winter.
12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125, USA
Facebook/Paint Creek Trail
Last but not least on our list of the best hikes in Michigan is Paint Creek Trail. December is a month full of celebration, so you’ll want to round out your year of hikes with an extra-special experience. We recommend a winter stroll along the sprawling Paint Creek Trail, which winds through various communities in Oakland County and features stunning views of woodlands, prairies, and so much more. Can you imagine a better place to bid adieu to the year?
Oakland County, MI, USA
Can’t get enough hiking? Read about this stunning year-round canopy walk in Michigan.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Michigan, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Michigan December 19, 2022 Beth C. What are the top natural wonders in Michigan? Michigan is positively brimming with gorgeous natural wonders to discover. Some of the top natural wonders in Michigan include:
Lake of the Clouds Ocqueoc Falls Canyon Falls Torch Lake Eben Ice Caves Black Rocks Isle Royale National Park Tahquamenon Falls Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Porcupine Mountains The Manitou Islands Port Crescent State Park Silver Lake Sand Dunes
From the shoreline to the rolling hills, no region of Michigan is quite like another. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our previous article outlining the most incredible natural attractions in Michigan that everyone should experience at least once.
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Michigan
December 19, 2022
Beth C.
What are the top natural wonders in Michigan? Michigan is positively brimming with gorgeous natural wonders to discover. Some of the top natural wonders in Michigan include:
Lake of the Clouds Ocqueoc Falls Canyon Falls Torch Lake Eben Ice Caves Black Rocks Isle Royale National Park Tahquamenon Falls Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Porcupine Mountains The Manitou Islands Port Crescent State Park Silver Lake Sand Dunes
From the shoreline to the rolling hills, no region of Michigan is quite like another. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our previous article outlining the most incredible natural attractions in Michigan that everyone should experience at least once.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Michigan is positively brimming with gorgeous natural wonders to discover. Some of the top natural wonders in Michigan include:
- Lake of the Clouds
- Ocqueoc Falls
- Canyon Falls
- Torch Lake
- Eben Ice Caves
- Black Rocks
- Isle Royale National Park
- Tahquamenon Falls
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
- Porcupine Mountains
- The Manitou Islands
- Port Crescent State Park
- Silver Lake Sand Dunes
From the shoreline to the rolling hills, no region of Michigan is quite like another. Looking for more inspiration? Check out our previous article outlining the most incredible natural attractions in Michigan that everyone should experience at least once.
