20 Best Hikes in Michigan: Seasonal Guide With Maps & What to Wear

Michigan is a hiker’s paradise, with over 13,000 miles of trails, state parks, and national lakeshores. This guide covers 20 of the best hikes, from quick strolls to challenging multi-day adventures, with expert tips on gear, weather, and safety. Whether you’re hitting the trails in summer, chasing fall colors, or braving winter paths, this guide will help you pick the right hike and stay comfortable.

Quick Picks: The Best Hikes in Michigan at a Glance

If you’re short on time, here are Michigan’s top trails ranked by experience:

• Best overall scenic hike: Lakeshore–North Country Trail, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
  
• Best Hikes in Michigan Mountains: Escarpment Trail, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
  
• Best dune overlook: Pyramid Point Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
  
• Best challenging backpacking route: Greenstone Ridge Trail, Isle Royale National Park
  
• Best beginner-friendly trail: Maybury Hiking Loop or Munising Falls Trail
  
• Best fall color hike: Penosha Trail, Brighton Recreation Area
  
• Best winter hike: Tahquamenon Falls State Park or Wilderness State Park
  
• Best short but steep payoff: Sugarloaf Mountain (Marquette)
  
• Best Day Hikes in Michigan: Sugarloaf Mountain, Empire Bluff Trail, Munising Falls, Great Warren Dune Trail
  
• Best Hiking Trails in Michigan with Waterfalls: Tahquamenon Falls, Chapel Loop, Canyon Falls, Bond Falls
  
• Best Lower Peninsula hikes: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Jordan River Pathway, Manistee River Trail
  
• Best Detroit-area hikes: Iron Belle Trail, Penosha Trail, Maybury State Park

These routes cover the full spectrum of what Michigan offers—from dramatic cliffside paths to quiet forest loops close to major cities.

How to Choose Your Michigan Hike: Upper Peninsula vs. Lower Peninsula

Michigan’s two peninsulas offer very different hiking experiences.

Upper Peninsula (UP)

The UP is shaped by exposed bedrock, cold water, and vast, unbroken forest. Lake Superior controls much of the weather, bringing:

• Sudden wind shifts and lake-effect snow
• Cooler temperatures, even in midsummer
• Steeper elevation changes
• Long distances between trailhead
• Rocky, rooty footing and limited cell service

It’s the better choice for hikers who want solitude, challenge, and rugged, remote landscapes.

Lower Peninsula (LP)

The LP is softer in profile, built from sand dunes, hardwood forests, and inland lakes. Trails here typically offer:

• Easier access from major population centers
• More family-friendly routes
• A wide variety of ecosystems in a compact area
• Less exposure to extreme cold or wind

It’s ideal for half-day hikes, beginners, and mixed-ability groups who still want quality scenery without full-on backcountry conditions.

Best Hikes in Michigan – Upper Peninsula

1. Escarpment Trail — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

• Distance: 4.4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Ridge hiking with panoramic views, especially stunning in fall for foliage. Best in fall or early summer.
• Location: 33303 Headquarters Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953
• Map: https://share.google/ggJ76sLYjMnRxyXXU 

The Escarpment Trail provides sweeping views over Lake of the Clouds and the surrounding Porcupine Mountains. This hike offers rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas, making it one of Michigan’s most rewarding hikes. In fall, the vibrant foliage adds even more beauty to this already scenic hike.

2. Big Carp River Trail — Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

• Distance: 9.6 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Wilderness immersion and backpacking, ideal for spring through fall hikes.
• Location: R63M+2H, Ontonagon, MI 49953
• Map: https://share.google/8LiX4B9JB1vkveCIm 

The Big Carp River Trail offers a more remote, backcountry experience. It takes hikers through dense forests and across river crossings, culminating in stunning views at Lake of the Clouds. It’s a perfect trail for those looking to explore the wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

3. Greenstone Ridge Trail — Isle Royale National Park

• Distance: 40–43 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Pet-Friendly: No (pets not allowed on Isle Royale)
• Best For & Season: Multi-day backpacking and wildlife sightings, perfect for summer hikes.
• Location: Eagle Harbor Township, MI
• Map: https://share.google/OXRHitAV9P9Zkfsus 

The Greenstone Ridge Trail stretches across Isle Royale, offering incredible views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness. As one of the longest and most challenging trails on the island, it’s ideal for experienced backpackers looking for a remote, off-the-grid adventure. Expect to see wildlife like moose and loons along the way.

4. Lakeshore Trail / North Country Trail — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

• Distance: 42 miles (full trail), shorter sections available
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Lakeside hiking, waterfalls, and photography; best in spring to fall, particularly late spring and early summer.
• Location: 1505 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862
• Map: https://share.google/xjphiSzMWUE1t85UW 

The Lakeshore Trail takes you along the beautiful Pictured Rocks cliffs, with views of crystal-clear beaches, waterfalls, and iconic landmarks like Miners Castle. It’s a versatile trail with options for both short day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips.

5. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

• Distance: Various short trails (1–7 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Waterfalls and family-friendly hikes; ideal in fall for color and winter for frozen falls.
• Location: 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768
• Map: https://share.google/rXZBd9Hn5XHhrZH3j 

Tahquamenon Falls is a must-see natural wonder. The falls are particularly stunning in winter when they freeze into a breathtaking icy landscape. The park offers several trails that are easy to follow, making it perfect for families and beginner hikers.

6. Sugarloaf Mountain — Marquette

• Distance: 1–1.5 miles
• Difficulty: Short but Steep
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Quick scenic hike with panoramic views, perfect for year-round sunrise or sunset views.
• Location: 4350 Sugarloaf Mountain Rd, Marquette, MI 49855
• Map: https://share.google/q0ttIUTj6rKARvfL1 

Sugarloaf Mountain offers one of the best views in the UP. This short but steep trail leads to the summit, where you can enjoy sweeping views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests. It’s a perfect quick hike for those looking to catch a sunrise or sunset.

7. Canyon Falls & Bond Falls — Western UP

• Distance: 1–2 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Waterfalls and scenic photography, great for spring through fall hikes.
• Location (Canyon Falls): Canyon Falls Rd, Baraga, MI 49908
• Map (Canyon Falls): https://share.google/OBZUFLnhIybsDXHtB 
• Location (Bond Falls): Bond Falls Rd, Paulding, MI 49958
• Map (Bond Falls): https://share.google/TnVNTnMG0sUG19Zak 

Canyon Falls and Bond Falls are two of the most picturesque waterfalls in Michigan. Both are easily accessible and provide great opportunities for photography. These short trails are perfect for families and casual hikers looking to explore the beauty of Michigan’s waterfalls.

8. Great Sand Bay & Keweenaw Peninsula Waterfalls

• Distance: Short hikes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Coastal walks and waterfalls, ideal for summer and fall.
• Location: M-26, Mohawk, MI 49950
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TkSfknCEHrdT2jR79 

Great Sand Bay offers a peaceful lakeside experience with scenic views of Lake Superior, while nearby waterfalls like Haven Falls and Jacob’s Falls add to the natural beauty. It’s a perfect combination of nature’s beauty and tranquility.

Upper Peninsula Trail Dressing Tip

Climate: The UP is Michigan at its coldest and wildest. Near Lake Superior, spring and fall often sit around 35–55°F (2–13°C), summers are a cool 50–70°F (10–21°C), and late fall to early spring regularly dips below freezing. Wind and humidity make it feel colder than the forecast.

Strategy: Think “light alpine”: a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid layer, plus a tough windproof, weatherproof shell. Your goal is to stay warm and dry without feeling bulky as conditions change through the day.

Your Go-To Picks:

1. Alpargali Aerogel Graphene Puffer Jacket – Built for real cold, with NASA-inspired aerogel, graphene, and Sorona® insulation to keep you comfortable from -40°C to +10°C. The Teflon™ shell shrugs off wind, snow, and slush, while the smart pocket layout and details make it just as useful in camp as it is on a windy ridge.
   
   
2. Alpargali CoreShell Jacket – A versatile softshell for three-season UP hikes. It’s warmer and more breathable than classic fleece, with a 10K/10K waterproof-breathable membrane that handles wind and passing showers, making it an easy grab for most trips that don’t involve deep winter.

Best Hikes in Michigan – Northern Lower Peninsula

9. Pyramid Point Trail — Sleeping Bear Dunes

• Distance: 3 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Sand dune overlooks with spectacular views of Lake Michigan; best in spring through fall, especially for sunrise/sunset views.
• Location: Cleveland Township, MI 49664
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/azSxuJ7QjUaV5JbAA 

Pyramid Point is one of the best spots for panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. The trail is a moderate climb, but the payoff at the top is worth the effort, especially when the sun is low in the sky, casting a golden light over the dunes and lake.

10. Empire Bluff Trail — Sleeping Bear Dunes

• Distance: 1.5 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Short but scenic hike with breathtaking lake views; best in spring through fall.
• Location: Empire Bluff Trail, Honor, MI 49640
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/i39VdXzpz1M6Vq6t6 

The Empire Bluff Trail is a short, relatively easy hike that leads to an expansive view of Lake Michigan from a bluff. This is one of the best hikes for those looking for a quick yet stunning hike with incredible vistas, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.

11. Dune Climb / Dune Hiking Trail — Sleeping Bear Dunes

• Distance: 4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (due to sand)
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: A challenging dune climb with stunning views of Lake Michigan; best in summer for clear skies, but be prepared for hot sand.
• Location: 6748 S Dune Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/j7yY7W5muCyAQwsS8 

The Dune Climb is one of the most iconic challenges in Sleeping Bear Dunes. The steep, sandy climb can be tough, but the view at the top is absolutely worth it. The trail also loops around some of the dunes, offering a unique perspective on this ever-changing landscape.

12. Manistee River Trail & Fife Lake Loop

• Distance: 19–23 miles (Manistee River Trail), 21 miles (Fife Lake Loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Multi-day backpacking along the Manistee River; great in spring and fall for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Location: US-131, Fife Lake, MI 49633
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CeoGdfmzPvTKx9qf6 

The Manistee River Trail is a popular trail known for its scenic river views, bridges, and forested landscapes. If you're looking for a longer hike, the Fife Lake Loop offers a less trafficked, equally beautiful experience with great views of the Manistee River. Both trails are perfect for beginners to intermediate backpackers.

13. Jordan River Pathway

• Distance: 20 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: A challenging trail that runs alongside the Jordan River; best in spring and fall for fewer bugs and beautiful foliage.
• Location: Michigan
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dPesHb8aKec4tNSZ8 

The Jordan River Pathway is a beautiful, serene trail that follows the Jordan River through the woods. It’s an excellent hike for those seeking a peaceful, relatively undisturbed environment. While the trail can be challenging in sections, it’s perfect for those who enjoy solitude and nature.

14. Grass River Natural Area & Glacial Hills

• Distance: 1–7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Wildlife watching, wetlands, and forest views; best in spring and fall when wildlife is most active and foliage is vibrant.
• Location: 6500 Alden Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/usmUx8T5tCUPPaVC8 

This hidden gem near Bellaire is a great place for wildlife watching, especially river otters, and offers a series of scenic trails through wetlands and forests. The Grass River Natural Area is perfect for a shorter, relaxed hike that brings you close to nature with minimal elevation gain.

15. Antrim Creek Natural Area & Sand Lakes Quiet Area

• Distance: 2–7 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Relaxing woodland and lake views; best in late spring to early fall for the best weather and less crowded trails.
• Location: 9890 Old Dixie Hwy, Ellsworth, MI 49729
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HMRdNoa6pW8U2gsb9 

Antrim Creek Natural Area offers peaceful trails along Lake Michigan with stunning views, perfect for a short getaway. The nearby Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers a peaceful woodland trail that is perfect for quiet walks and bird watching. Both locations are ideal for families and beginner hikers.

Northern Lower Peninsula Trail Dressing Tip

Climate: Around Sleeping Bear, Traverse City, Bellaire, and Manistee, temps are cooler but more forgiving: 40–65°F (4–18°C) in spring and fall, and roughly 60–80°F (15–27°C) in summer. Mornings by the lake can feel chilly, while dunes and forests warm up quickly once the sun is out.

Strategy: Layer light and flexible: a quick-dry tee, a thin insulating piece, and a packable shell you can throw on when the wind or weather changes. You want gear that feels good both on the trail and when you’re back in town.

Your Go-To Picks:

1. Alpargali Graphene Lightweight Jacket – A go-to for cool mornings and breezy afternoons. The graphene back panel helps stabilize your body heat, Sorona® insulation adds gentle warmth, and the Teflon™ finish resists light rain and trail grime without feeling heavy.
   
   
2. Alpargali Men’s All-Weather Outdoor Jacket – Ideal if your day mixes hiking with roadside lookouts, breweries, or small towns. With a 15K waterproof / 15K breathable shell, 14 waterproof pockets, and travel-friendly features, it handles changing weather and still looks sharp off the trail.

Best Hikes in Michigan – Southern Lower Peninsula

16. Great Warren Dune Trail

• Distance: 4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Sand dune views and beach vistas, ideal for summer and fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
• Location: 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7HmPE8vcAMyEpwZh7 

Located in Warren Dunes State Park, the Great Warren Dune Trail offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan and a challenging hike through towering dunes. The trail ascends a steep dune before rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the shoreline. It’s a great hike for those seeking a bit of a workout mixed with scenic beach views.

17. Penosha Trail — Brighton Recreation Area

• Distance: 5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Forested loop with scenic views, especially stunning in autumn for fall colors.
• Location: Brighton, MI 48116
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/B3YVTzUGKWfcN5i18 

The Penosha Trail at Brighton Recreation Area is a relatively easy loop trail that offers beautiful views of wetlands, forests, and lakes. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxing hike in the woods, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, especially during the vibrant autumn season.

18. Grand River Trail — Near Lansing

• Distance: 4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Riverside hiking, ideal in spring and fall for cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.
• Location: Grand River Park, 3205 Lansing Rd, Lansing, MI 48911
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bNeSvxGzB1kTdFHW6 

The Grand River Trail provides a peaceful escape along Michigan's longest river. It winds through woodlands, wetlands, and riverbanks, offering a diverse range of scenery. It’s a perfect hike for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city while staying close to nature.

19. Maybury Hiking Loop — Near Detroit

• Distance: 3.1 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: Relaxing walk through woodlands, best in spring and summer for pleasant weather.
• Location: 49601 Eight Mile W, Northville, MI 48167
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MujemaH3W8Hsi9Ly9 

Located near Detroit, Maybury State Park offers an easy, family-friendly loop trail through quiet woodlands. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a short, peaceful hike without leaving the city. The trail is well-maintained and great for a quick outdoor escape.

20. Bald Mountain & Iron Belle Trail Segments

• Distance: Varies by segment (Iron Belle Trail spans 1,250 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
• Best For & Season: A variety of trail sections for all experience levels, great in spring through fall for cooler weather and wildlife viewing.
• Location: 1330 E Greenshield Rd, Lake Orion, MI 48360
• Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wisLuMfPantMcp478 

The Bald Mountain Trail offers scenic views of the surrounding forests and lakes, while the nearby segments of the Iron Belle Trail provide longer, more challenging hikes across Michigan. Whether you choose a short day hike or a longer trek, this area offers a wide range of experiences for all skill levels.

Southern Lower Peninsula Trail Dressing Tip

Climate: In the south—Warren Dunes, Brighton, Lansing, the Detroit area—conditions are milder. Spring and fall usually range from 45–70°F (7–21°C), summers from 65–85°F (18–29°C), and winters are softer than up north. Many hikes are shorter and closer to town, so you’re moving a lot and warming up quickly.

Strategy: Prioritize comfort and easy layering: a breathable base, a light insulating layer, and an outer layer you can pull on or off without thinking too much about it.

Your Go-To Picks:

1. Alpargali Graphene Vest – Perfect when you need a bit more warmth without committing to a full jacket. Graphene and Sorona® keep your core comfortable, while the slim profile works just as well over a tee on the trail as it does with jeans in the city.
   
   
2. Alpargali Graphene Lightweight Jacket or Alpargali CoreShell Jacket – Choose the Graphene Lightweight for warmer months and breezy summer evenings, or CoreShell for colder fall and early-spring days. Both layer easily over the vest and give you dependable protection when the wind picks up or the weather turns.

Safety, Trail Etiquette & Leave No Trace

Michigan’s trails span diverse ecosystems—from fragile dunes to wetlands and old-growth forests. Follow these guidelines:

• Stay on marked trails
  
  
• Pack out all trash, including apple cores
  
  
• Respect wildlife (bears, moose, foxes)
  
  
• Check weather conditions—Michigan storms form fast
  
  
• Carry map/navigation tools

Planning Your Michigan Hiking Trip

Michigan really rewards hikers who show up prepared. The trails are beautiful in every season, but the weather can turn quickly—especially in fall and winter—so packing layers and thinking ahead makes all the difference.

If this hiking guide helped you choose where to go, the next step is making sure you’re comfortable out there. That’s where Alpargali comes in: we build men’s gear with real Midwest conditions in mind, from cold lake winds to long days on mixed terrain. Take a look at our jackets, vests, and trail-ready layers, and pick the pieces that match the way you hike.

Enjoy the trails—and if you decide to gear up with Alpargali, we’ll be right there with you, mile after mile.

FAQs about Hikes in Michigan

What is the best hike in Michigan?

The Empire Bluffs Overlook Trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is often considered the best hike for its stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding dunes.

What is the hardest hike in Michigan?

The Greenstone Ridge Trail on Isle Royale National Park is considered the hardest, offering a challenging 43-mile route with rugged terrain and remote conditions.

What is the most beautiful park in Michigan?

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is widely regarded as the most beautiful park in Michigan, known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and clear blue waters of Lake Superior.

What is the most scenic place in Michigan?

The Sleeping Bear Dunes is often called the most scenic place in Michigan, offering breathtaking views from its towering dunes and overlooks of Lake Michigan.