As the warm weather persists, now is the time to get outside and enjoy the wonderful nature trails that Michigan has to offer. Hike the pristine wooded trails and discover the wildlife that lives near you. Or ride miles of paved trails from lake to lake on a bicycle. Wherever you are in the state some trails offer an amazing experience.

 

South West Michigan

 

Hiking

 

Hike on Pierce Cedar Creek Institute’s Black Walnut Trail in August and read the children's book, Poo-Dunnit? A Forest Floor Mystery by Katelyn Aronson. You can also hike the Lupine Trail and learn about animal tracks. These are free, self-guided programs available from August 1st through 31st.

 

River Town Adventures, located in downtown Lansing on the Lansing River Trail, offers kayak, canoe, and SUP rentals. Paddle along the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, or explore the 20+ mile paved Lansing River Trail by walking, biking, or rollerblading. Along the way, you can visit multiple museums and attractions, or head to Michigan State University for even more opportunities.

 

Hiking

 

The Lakeshore Harvest Ride in Southwest Michigan is a scenic bike tour offering routes ranging from 15 to 62 miles. Riders can explore wineries, cider mills, farms, and art studios. This ride supports the Blue Star Trail, a planned 20-mile path from Saugatuck to South Haven, promoting safety and wellness. In September, enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds, with towns offering cultural events, outdoor activities, art galleries, shops, and diverse cuisine, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

 

Saugatuck/Douglas including Saugatuck Dunes State Park, with 1,000 acres of hills, dunes, and 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, and the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, featuring unspoiled dunes, wetlands, and the Kalamazoo River channel. For more information, visit here.  The towns are also bike-friendly, with several trails available and easy-to-find bike rentals at places like Blue Star Barns Coffee & Bikes, Big Lake Outfitters, and In The Elements Rental. For more details, visit here.

 

Hiking

 

Set in the middle of the US-12 Heritage Trail, in south-central Michigan, Coldwater Country is a haven for relaxation. From hiking and biking trails to two chains of lakes, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area. Take a hike on the paved trails at Heritage Park in Coldwater, on the gravel trails along the Sauk River, or rent a pontoon and explore the water trail along either the North or South Coldwater Chain of Lakes.

 

Central West Michigan

 

Hiking

 

In Mt. Pleasant, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities. The Chippewa River offers kayaking, canoeing, and tubing, with rentals available from Buckley’s Mountainside Canoes and Chippewa River Outfitters. For biking, Mt. Pleasant features both paved pathways for casual rides and rugged dirt trails for more adventurous cyclists. The area also boasts over 1,000 acres of parkland and 19 nature preserves, perfect for hiking and unwinding in nature. For more information on biking, visit here, for kayaking and canoeing on the Chippewa River, click here, and for hiking spots along the Chippewa River, check this link.

 

By land or by lake, Holland is a terrific hub for those who love to hit the trails. Cyclists enjoy more than 150 miles of dedicated paths, including loops linking popular destinations like Tunnel Park, Windmill Island, and Kollen Park. Other scenic routes include the 11-mile wooded tract to Saugatuck and the 20-mile Lakeshore Connector Path to Grand Haven. Hikers can explore 4,000 acres of varied terrain, including marshlands, wooded glens, and towering dunes. Kayakers can enjoy the tranquil Lake Macatawa Loop. Bike and kayak rentals are readily available in town, making it easy to gear up for your adventure.

 

Hiking

 

Muskegon County has a brand-new escape for nature lovers! Dune Harbor Park over two miles of trails weaving through forested dunes and around scenic inland lakes. The park is dog-friendly (on leash) and features a 2.3-mile South Lake loop trail, with the North Lake trail leading to Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Look out for wildlife and listen for the calls of migrating birds. Open from dawn to dusk, the park requires a parking permit, available at the park kiosk or various locations around Muskegon County.

 

Lakeshore Drive Trail: This paved trail is an Ottawa County classic stretching 20 miles along Lakeshore Drive road. This trail connects Grand Haven State Park to Holland State Park while crossing through natural areas and beaches like Rosy Mound and Kirk Park. The trail is open from dawn to dusk and offers a long ride or walk, plenty of amazing scenery, and an adventure for one or the entire family!

 

North West Michigan & Upper Peninsula

 

Lake View Hotel

 

Whether you're boating or fishing, sailing on the lake, hiking or biking Charlevoix’s many trails or spending time playing in the winter snow, you'll soon realize that Charlevoix truly is Northern Michigan's greatest kept secret.

 

If you’re looking for hiking, biking and trails this summer, look to Lake View Hotel on Mackinac Island! With over 70 miles of trails and no motor vehicles allowed, the island is the perfect place to explore this summer.

 

Get ready for your next outdoor adventure in Mackinaw City, a haven for hiking and biking enthusiasts. With trails for all skill levels, you can explore scenic pathways or historical routes. Mackinaw City is the gateway to the North Western and North Central State Trail systems, including a 75-mile trail to Waters and routes toward Petoskey, passing through charming small towns. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual biker, Mackinaw City's trail systems offer an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the beauty of the trails, the charm of downtown, and thrilling outdoor adventures.

 

Biking

 

Treetops is home to over 3,300 acres of rolling hills overlooking the Pigeon River Valley. Take it all in on foot with their scenic hiking trails. We have just created a new property trail map to help visitors easily navigate. Check it out!

 

Petoskey Area is home to many great hiking and biking trails! Check out Avalanche Mountain Preserve in Boyne City and Skyline Trail in Petoskey. For a water trail, check out the Inland Waterway in Alanson. This connects Crooked Lake, Crooked River, Burt Lake, Indian River, Mullet Lake, Cheboygan River, finally to Lake Huron.

 

Whether a beginner or expert cyclist, hit the backroads and cruise along the endless bike trails that Marquette County has to offer. With routes such as the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, Marquette Mountain's Downhill Bike Park and the Noquemanon Trail Network (NTN), riders can coast through the scenic area on a series of trails perfect for every skill level. For those looking to travel on foot, the several scenic hiking trails throughout Marquette County offer endless family fun and incredible sights of Marquette County and the surrounding area. Enjoy several of Marquette’s local favorites including the moderate Mount Marquette hike with views of Lake Superior and the city of Marquette as well as the beautiful excursion to Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook, providing visitors with a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful landscape below. 

 

Hiking

 

Adventure is calling at Drummond Island Resort for those looking for hiking and biking this August! Cruise the island on their bike rentals (complimentary for resort guests) or hike on one of the 4 scenic trails on property. There are also 2 nature preserves and other parks nearby and no end to the adventures to be had!

 

Black Star Farms has fantastic hiking and biking opportunities right on their property! The Suttons Bay location features miles of on-site trails that wind through picturesque forests, orchards, and vineyards, offering a unique and immersive way to experience the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. For those who love cycling, you can embark on a Leelanau Wine Trail Bike Tour right from their property, connecting to the scenic TART Trail. After your adventure, relax and unwind with a glass of wine or a cocktail on the terrace patio, soaking in the stunning views. We also offer convenient bicycle and E-bike rentals on-site, provided by Suttons Bay Bikes, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Come and explore the beauty of Black Star Farms Suttons Bay, where adventure meets relaxation!

 

Grass River Natural Area

 

With 5,500 acres to explore Northern Michigan’s Shanty Creek Resort offers a variety of options to just get outside and play. Grab a pair of hiking boots, walking shoes, or even a bicycle to enjoy the on-site trails at the resort. For a workout in a beautiful setting, a summertime climb of Schuss Mountain delivers a great hike. Just a few miles down the road from Shanty Creek Resort to some of the most sought-after trails in the state at Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area. Visitors will enjoy more than 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Or take in the trails at nearby Grass River Natural Area, a 1125-acre preserve with seven miles of trails, boardwalks, bridges, and observation platforms that provide easy access to and showcase the region’s connection with the waterways.