Akron MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Akron, Michigan.
1. Applewood Trail
SCENIC LOCAL CONNECTOR
The Applewood Trail in Akron serves as a convenient connector, offering a pleasant and well-maintained path for both hikers and cyclists. With benches along the route and opportunities for geocaching, it's ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely outdoor experience. The trail's accessible design makes it a favorite for locals looking to enjoy a quick nature outing.
2. Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail
RIVERSIDE WALKWAY ADVENTURE
The Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail provides nearly 18 miles of scenic paths that meander along the Saginaw River and through lush parks in Bay City. It's perfect for enjoying river views, spotting wildlife, and exploring both urban and natural landscapes. This multi-use trail is popular for hiking, biking, and nature walks year-round.
3. Bay-Zil Rail Trail
PEACEFUL RAIL TRAIL
The Bay-Zil Rail Trail spans 7 miles, connecting communities through a peaceful corridor of green space just outside of Akron. Bordered by woodlands and farmland, this trail offers quiet hiking conditions and opportunities to spot birds and local wildlife. It's a wonderful choice for those seeking solitude and a slower pace.
4. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
ALL-SEASON FOREST ROUTE
The Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail features over 5 miles of looped trails designed for hiking in the warmer months and cross-country skiing in winter. Winding through mature forests and rolling terrain, it's known for its serene atmosphere and well-groomed paths. The varied landscape makes this trail a hit with nature enthusiasts and fitness hikers alike.
5. Shields Trail
WOODED RECREATION LOOP
Shields Trail in Saginaw Township offers nearly 5 miles of gentle, shaded paths ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers. With its easy access and tranquil surroundings, the trail is a favorite for family outings and birdwatching. Benches and rest areas along the loop provide comfortable spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.
6. Forestview Natural Area Trail
NATURE PRESERVE WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail in Midland offers a short yet rewarding hike through a protected natural preserve. The 0.9-mile trail loops among native wildflowers and hardwood trees, making it ideal for a quick immersion into nature. Its easy terrain and educational signs are perfect for families and casual hikers.
7. Delta East/West Trail
URBAN NATURE PATHWAY
The Delta East/West Trail provides a 2-mile stretch of urban greenway in Lansing, welcoming both walkers and bikers. The trail features gentle grades and scenic corridors, connecting neighborhoods with parks and natural spaces. It's an easy option for city residents looking for quick access to the outdoors.
8. Tobico Marsh and Frank N. Andersen Nature Trail
WETLANDS WILDLIFE HAVEN
Tobico Marsh and Frank N. Andersen Nature Trail offer an immersive hike through one of Michigan's largest coastal wetlands near Bay City. Hikers can traverse boardwalks and dirt trails while observing migratory birds, turtles, and other wildlife unique to the marsh ecosystem. The trails' diversity and rich habitats make them a destination for nature lovers and photographers.
9. Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park
NATIVE HISTORY TRAIL
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park near Cass City features a short hiking trail that leads visitors to ancient rock carvings created by Native Americans centuries ago. The forested path offers interpretive signs explaining the site's archaeological and cultural significance. This unique destination combines a peaceful walk with a tangible connection to Michigan's indigenous heritage.
10. Sleeper State Park
BEACHFRONT FOREST TRAILS
Sleeper State Park in Caseville boasts wooded trails that wind through dunes and forests before reaching the shores of Lake Huron. With several miles of hiking options, the park offers opportunities for both quiet woodland walks and stunning lake vistas. The combination of diverse habitats makes this a favorite for summer hiking and wildlife observation.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking refers to the state's most iconic trails, stretching from the forests of the Upper Peninsula to the picturesque beaches of the Great Lakes. With landscapes ranging from rugged mountains in the Porcupine Mountains to gentle lakeside strolls, Michigan delivers unforgettable hiking experiences for all skill levels. These top-rated trails are renowned for their scenery, accessibility, and year-round appeal.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
LAKESHORE TRAIL EXPERIENCES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the best hiking along the state's famous Great Lakes coastlines, where sandy beaches meet forested dunes and clear blue water. Trails such as those at Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pictured Rocks offer breathtaking vistas and diverse ecological environments. These shoreline routes are especially popular for their combination of beach trekking, dune climbing, and expansive lake views.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails scattered across the state that offer solitude, pristine settings, and abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. From remote forest paths in the Thumb region to quiet riverside walks, these spots are perfect for adventurers seeking peaceful escapes. Hikers can enjoy unspoiled nature while encountering fewer crowds and unique flora and fauna.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE DESTINATIONS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the best places to experience the state's spectacular fall foliage, from maple-lined trails in Southern Michigan to the dramatic color displays of the Upper Peninsula. Classic hikes like those in Hartwick Pines and the Porcupine Mountains attract leaf-peepers from across the Midwest. Each trail offers an unrivaled opportunity to enjoy crisp air and vibrant autumn landscapes.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS HIKING
Ottawa National Forest near Ironwood features hundreds of miles of trails through deep forests, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. Hikers can explore everything from short interpretive paths to rugged backcountry routes, all immersed in the serene environment of the western Upper Peninsula. This area is renowned for its remote beauty, diverse wildlife, and outstanding opportunities for outdoor adventure.