Hit the Trails

?: Greg Viau

Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air can be a great activity for almost everyone! West Michigan offers great experiences outdoors on its various trails. Whether you’re looking to hike, go for a stroll, or bike you’re sure to find something here!

South

Discover Kalamazoo and all of their trails including the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail. The trail extends for 35 miles throughout Kalamazoo County. More than half of the trail is paved which allows for a relaxing bike ride or a simple stroll for anyone.

Pierce Cedar Creek Institute offers a wide variety of trails for your use. From 0.2 miles to 2.1 miles each trail is well marked by a different color. They welcome your pets as long as you keep them leashed. Make sure to stop here on your next trip to Hastings!

Sarett Nature Center in Benton Harbor offers a unique opportunity. Walk through the trails and experience the nature around you. You can choose your route with distances ranging from 700 feet to 1 mile. Spend time trying out various routes each with a beautiful view of nature.

Central

On your next visit to the Lowell area don’t forget to plan a hike on the North Country Trail. This trail covers 4,600 miles across eight states, including Michigan! You can hop on the trail in Lowell and hike as far as you wish, whether it’s a few miles or an overnight backpacking trip. 

Silver Lake State Park in Mears offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Not only is it located along the shores of Lake Michigan but it also has nearly 2,000 acres of sand dunes. The park offers various hiking trails and the dunes are ORV accessible.

Blandford Nature Center in Grand Rapids offers various hiking trails throughout the property. The trails go through the farm, the woodlands, and the highland. There’s also wetlands throughout the land that attract various wildlife. You can even bring your furry friends on your visit as long as they’re on a leash. Trails are open year round, well-maintained, and ready for your arrival!

Muskegon State Park is a great place for your next hike. With over 12 miles of trails and six different loops of various lengths you’re sure to find the best trail to hike. The trials wind through a variety of landscapes and marked along the way. When the cold weather hits and snow begins to fall the park is still a great place to visit. Daily snowshoe rentals are available through the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. You can explore the same park trails in a new way!

North

Boyne Mountain Resort offers an abundance of trails to enjoy at your leisure. Boyne is filled with miles of well-marked hiking trails through timberland, mountains and rolling hills. You’re bound to encounter some wildlife along your hike. The trails are also designed for every hikers ability level.

Grass River Natural Area is a 1,492 acre nature preserve in Bellaire that offers six different trail loops throughout the preserve totaling 7 miles of well-maintained trail. You can even walk along the boardwalk which floats above the northern fen and cedar wetlands. This is a hike you won’t want to miss!

Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area offers over 30 miles of trails where you can hike, bike, and engage in winter sports. Located just outside of downtown Bellaire the trail is ready for both novice and experienced trail users. The trail offers something for everyone, including you!

Upper Peninsula

Drummond Island Tourism Association offers the best hiking trails on the island including the Heritage Hiking Trail, Rainbow Cross Country Trail, Williams Nature Preserve, and the Drummond Island Resort Trail. Each of these trails varies in distance with the shortest only one mile while the longest stretches up to fifteen miles. Whether you’re looking to engage in some cross country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking one of these four trails is right for you!

The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge offers a great starting point for the Copper Harbor Trails. These trails offer 37 miles of hiking through the scenic Keweenaw Peninsula. Their difficulties range from easy to intermediate to expert. No matter what route you choose you’re sure to see breathtaking views along your hike!

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boasts 100 miles of hiking trails for your enjoyment. Trails range in their lengths and each one offers a unique experience. You can hike along the trails with some of the most gorgeous views in the state. Whether it’s the view of Lake Superior, a stop at a waterfall or visit to a lighthouse you’re sure to enjoy these trails.

West Michigan offers everything you’re looking for in a trail! As you adventure through our thousands of miles of trails, you’re bound to find the perfect trail for you.