Michigan Hiking Trails You Don't Want to Miss

Michigan is recognized for its beautiful vistas. While many Michiganders head to the slopes in the winter, snowshoeing, and engaging in other winter outdoor activities, local hikers wait all winter to be able to explore some of the United States' finest hiking routes.

 

Residents of Liv Multifamily apartments have a wealth of recreational amenities at their disposal, including expansive hiking trails, fenced-in dog parks, and outdoor heated swimming pools. However, no amount of breathtaking grounds can compare to the immersive beauty that Michigan's backcountry and recreational areas provide.

 

Whether you're a first-time hiker eager for a stroll in the city or a seasoned backcountry adventurer seeking an exciting workout, this list has some of Michigan's most beautiful hikes.

 

1. Belle Isle Loop  

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Time from Traverse City: 7 hours, 20 minutes

Belle Isle is an excellent spot for less experienced loop hikers who desire breathtaking views. With its lush greenery, spurts of the river, and picturesque sights of Detroit, Belle Isle will not disappoint nature lovers.

 

The loop is a little over five and a half miles long and contains few hills, making it perfect for those new to hiking.

 

If you're in Detroit, a stroll around Belle Isle Loop is the ideal way to spend your afternoon. While enjoying the place, you may join other outdoor enthusiasts who may be fishing, birding, or cycling.

 

2. Empire Bluff Trail  

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Time from Traverse City: 40 minutes

The Empire Bluff Trail is one of the most pleasant hikes in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This hike is an excellent option for families who want to experience beautiful scenery without putting in too much time and effort.

 

The Empire Bluff Trail, which is only an hour away from Traverse City and one-and-a-half miles long, can be completed in less than an hour.

 

Traverse City is known as a four-season playground, making it an appealing relocation option for families, and the Empire Bluff Trail has a year-round appeal. Hikers who reach the top of the Bluff in the summer will be greeted with magnificent views of Lake Michigan, whereas winter explorers will enjoy trekking across the trail in their snowshoes.

 

For all hikes in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, take care to read every warning sign. In winter, melted ice and snow can make footing more treacherous near steep drop-offs.

 

3. Scoville Point via Stoll Trail  

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Time from Traverse City: varies based on transportation method, roughly 4-7 hours

If you're visiting or living in Michigan, taking a hike at Scoville Point should be at the top of your to-do list. This area in Isle Royale National Park will give hikers unrivaled views of Lake Superior while being rewarded with an easily manageable loop trail.

 

Stoll Trail is only a little more than five miles long and can be completed in an hour and a half. Although you won't get the solitude of other backcountry spots due to the trail's popularity, Scoville Point has some remarkable bird and animal viewing opportunities.

 

Even though Isle Royale National Park is one of the most beautiful spots on Earth, visitors frequently overlook it because it can only be reached by seaplane, private boat, or ferry. If you're prepared to do a little extra planning, getting there isn't difficult.

 

The National Park Service's website provides detailed instructions on how to plan your trip, depending on your location and chosen mode of transportation.

 

4. Escarpment Trail  

Level of Difficulty: Hard

Time from Traverse City: 7 hours, 20 minutes

The Escarpment Trail is a challenging hike, but one that every Michigander should attempt. This trail is eight and a half miles long with over 1,500 feet of elevation gain. Even the most experienced hiker will get a good workout on this trail.

 

The trail is located in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, along a bluff with panoramic views of Lake of the Clouds and the Upper Carp River. Three access points offer hikers alternative routes.

 

5. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Trail  

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Time from Traverse City: 4 hours

The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Trail is not only one of the most gorgeous hikes in Michigan but also has sections that are part of the North Country National Scenic Trail - making it a destination for hikers from all over the United States.

 

The Grand Marais to Munising via North Country Trail gives visitors a quintessential Michigan hiking experience, with dramatic waterfalls, sheer cliffs, dunes, and expansive views of the state's many lakes.

 

This section of the trail is 42 miles long, and it's best to hike it over several days. You need a Backcountry permit to stay overnight at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and you can only camp in designated campsites there.

 

However, because permits are required to camp in this wild area and it takes longer to get to, hikers have a higher chance of experiencing peace and quiet.

 

Enjoying the Best Michigan Hiking Trails  

Though people come from all over to see the state's picturesque scenery, residents of Michigan are especially lucky because they can get to even the most rural areas in less than a day.

 

Consider an easy excursion like the Belle Isle Loop Trail to build your confidence while learning how to trek. More experienced hikers may enjoy the benefits of the Escarpment Trail or the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Trail.

 

Whatever trek you pick, the views will not disappoint.

Rock formations next to the water.