Alanson Michigan HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Alanson, Michigan.
1. North Western State Trail
MULTI-USE SCENIC PATHWAY
The North Western State Trail stretches 32 miles, connecting Petoskey and Alanson via a converted rail corridor. Hikers enjoy a diverse landscape including forests, wetlands, and glimpses of Lake Michigan along well-maintained sections. The trail's easy access and mixed-surface make it ideal for day hikes or longer treks through northern Michigan's scenic beauty.
2. Boyne Valley Trailway
RIVERSIDE WOODED TRAIL
The Boyne Valley Trailway offers a peaceful hike through rolling woodlands and follows parts of the Boyne River for serene water views. Its 6.3-mile length is popular for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts seeking a blend of open fields and shaded forest. The well-marked path makes it accessible for hikers of most experience levels.
3. Grass River Natural Area Rail Trail
WETLANDS AND WILDLIFE
Grass River Natural Area Rail Trail immerses hikers in a unique wetland environment rich in flora and fauna. The 2.2-mile trail is a haven for birdwatchers and those interested in observing Michigan's diverse plant life. Boardwalks and marked paths offer easy exploration while preserving the delicate ecosystem.
4. Allan and Virginia McCune Nature Preserve
FORESTS AND MEADOWS WALK
The Allan and Virginia McCune Nature Preserve features 3.5 miles of trails meandering through hardwoods, meadows, pine plantations, and creeks. Visitors enjoy tranquil natural beauty and a variety of habitats, providing excellent opportunities for quiet walks and wildlife sightings. Easy access and two parking lots make it convenient for families and casual hikers.
5. Bay View Woods
HISTORIC NATURE PRESERVE
Bay View Woods offers nearly 4 miles of gentle trails weaving through 168 acres of forest, fields, and unique geological formations. The preserve features habitats for numerous bird species and wildflowers, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers. Well-marked paths make this an accessible adventure near downtown Petoskey.
6. Bear River Valley Recreation Area
RIVER GORGE ADVENTURE
Bear River Valley Recreation Area provides a rugged hiking experience along the rushing Bear River. Dramatic bluffs, forested slopes, and designated overlooks make this trail system a favorite for those seeking a more challenging hike. The trails are accessible from downtown Petoskey, offering a quick escape to wild terrain.
7. Oden Island Nature Preserve
ISLAND FOREST ESCAPE
Oden Island Nature Preserve encompasses mature forests, fragile wetlands, and lake views on a quiet island setting. Roughly a mile of trails skirt the eastern perimeter, inviting visitors to relaxing strolls and two peaceful benches with lakeside vistas. The preserve is ideal for those seeking a short, tranquil hike surrounded by water and woodland.
8. Petoskey State Park Trails
LAKE MICHIGAN VIEWS
Petoskey State Park features sandy trail loops through dune and forest habitats along Lake Michigan's shore. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking water views, wildflower meadows, and direct beach access from several paths. These scenic trails are excellent for families, photographers, and anyone seeking to experience the area's signature Petoskey stones.
9. Avalanche Mountain Preserve
HILLTOP PANORAMIC HIKES
Avalanche Mountain Preserve invites hikers to climb more than 400 steps to panoramic views overlooking Boyne City and Lake Charlevoix. The preserve's network of trails also winds through forested hills, making it popular for both hiking and mountain biking. Abundant wildlife and scenic overlooks reward those who make the ascent.
10. Little Traverse Wheelway
COASTAL BIKING AND HIKING
Little Traverse Wheelway runs along the Lake Michigan shoreline, providing almost 26 miles of multi-use paved paths from Charlevoix through Petoskey to Harbor Springs. Hikers can enjoy easy access to scenic overlooks, parks, and small beach areas. The route is ideal for a leisurely stroll, long run, or sunset walk by the water.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP-RATED STATE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's premier trails, from lakeshore bluffs to old-growth forests and rugged ridgelines. Trails such as the North Country Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore showcase the state's natural diversity and scenic vistas. These top-rated hikes provide memorable outdoor adventures for all experience levels.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL AND BEACH WALKS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking is renowned for its trails along the shores of the Great Lakes, featuring sandy beaches, dune vistas, and stunning sunsets. Popular routes include the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the trails of Warren Dunes State Park, offering easy beach access and dramatic lake views. These paths are perfect for those seeking the beauty of Michigan's freshwater coasts.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE EXPERIENCES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems spotlights quiet, less-traveled trails ideal for peace, solitude, and wildlife observation. Locations like the Jordan River Pathway and Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area immerse hikers in dense forests, sparkling streams, and abundant wildlife far from the crowds. These trails promise a tranquil and unforgettable connection to Michigan's wilder side.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
VIBRANT FALL COLOR TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the state's spectacular fall foliage, with trails winding through brilliant hardwood forests ablaze in red, gold, and orange. Favorites include the Porcupine Mountains, Hartwick Pines, and the Tunnel of Trees, offering hikers breathtaking views and crisp autumn air. These paths are best experienced from late September to early November for peak color.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TREKKING
Ottawa National Forest spans nearly a million acres in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, offering endless opportunities for backcountry hiking and exploration. Trails wind through old-growth forest, past waterfalls, lakes, and rivers, inviting adventure seekers to experience pristine wilderness. With vast solitude and varied terrain, hiking here is a highlight for serious outdoor enthusiasts.