Alma MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Alma, Michigan.
1. Forest Hill Nature Area
WILDLIFE AND WOODS EXPLORATION
Forest Hill Nature Area offers diverse habitats and easy hiking trails perfect for observing wildlife and lush woodlands. Located in Alma, visitors can explore native plantings while enjoying a peaceful walk through serene natural settings. The area is popular with students and nature lovers looking for accessible outdoor experiences close to town.
2. Fred Meijer Heartland Trail
LONG-DISTANCE SCENIC PATHWAY
The Fred Meijer Heartland Trail stretches nearly 42 miles through central Michigan, starting right in Alma. This well-maintained, paved trail cuts through farmland and forests, linking several rural communities and providing ample opportunities for lengthy hikes and wildlife viewing. Its smooth surface makes it great for both experienced hikers and families.
3. Fred Meijer Grand River Valley Rail Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY ADVENTURE
The Fred Meijer Grand River Valley Rail Trail is a developing network spanning 125 miles, with Alma as one of its endpoints. Hikers can enjoy a mix of paved and gravel surfaces while traversing peaceful farmland, riverbanks, and scenic rural landscapes. It's a popular route for those seeking a blend of nature and small-town charm.
4. Northern Tier Trail
URBAN CONNECTOR LOOP
Northern Tier Trail in Alma provides a smooth, accessible hike winding through residential neighborhoods and campus areas. The route is ideal for urban walkers or students commuting by foot, offering a mix of easy walking and local activity. While not heavily scenic, it's a practical and pleasant path for daily outings.
5. Chippewa Trail
RIVER VALLEY JOURNEY
The Chippewa Trail connects Mount Pleasant to the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy, offering hikers a scenic riverside walk. This paved trail is a favorite for seeing wildlife along quiet forested stretches and open riverbanks. Just a short drive from Alma, it's perfect for a half-day hiking excursion.
6. Pere Marquette Rail-Trail
ICONIC RAIL-TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Pere Marquette Rail-Trail starts in Midland and covers over 30 miles of paved, flat pathway through mid-Michigan. Known for its accessibility and forested scenery, this trail attracts long-distance walkers, cyclists, and families. It's easily accessible from Alma for a day hike on one of Michigan's most popular rail-trails.
7. Fred Meijer Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee Trail
HISTORIC FOREST CORRIDOR
The Fred Meijer Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee Trail features over 40 miles of partially paved and gravel trails through woodlands and rural communities. Connecting several towns, including Owosso, the trail is excellent for those seeking a quiet, straightforward walk with options for longer treks. The trail's linear route is ideal for both hikers and cyclists.
8. Lansing River Trail
URBAN AND WILDLIFE BLEND
Lansing River Trail weaves more than 20 miles through parks, riverbanks, and downtown Lansing. It passes notable attractions like Hawk Island Park and Potter Park Zoo, making it a dynamic experience for both city and nature lovers. The trail is a great option for Alma residents seeking a day trip to a diverse hiking environment.
9. Fred Meijer Flat River Trail
RIVERSIDE CITY PARKS ROUTE
Fred Meijer Flat River Trail links multiple city parks in Greenville, following the scenic Flat River for six miles. Hikers enjoy forested pathways and river views, with the trail weaving through quiet green spaces and vibrant parklands. It's a pleasant destination for Alma locals wanting a mix of nature and small-town atmosphere.
10. Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park
MICHIGAN'S LONGEST TRAIL
Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park stretches nearly 93 miles from Grand Rapids northward, providing one of Michigan's most extensive hiking experiences. The trail blends urban, farmland, and forested sections, passing through multiple towns along its route. For Alma hikers seeking extended adventures, this trail showcases the diversity of Michigan's landscapes.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP DESTINATIONS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses celebrated trails across the state, from the dunes and waterfalls of the Upper Peninsula to forested paths in the Lower Peninsula. Adventurers can experience diverse terrains—lush forests, rolling hills, rivers, and lakes—all within a day's drive. Whether seeking challenging backcountry routes or family-friendly walks, Michigan is known for its outstanding hiking variety.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL AND BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's best coastal paths, from the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to hidden stretches along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. These trails offer panoramic water views, sandy beaches, and dune landscapes, ideal for both day hikes and multi-day coastal adventures. The state's impressive shoreline access makes it a top destination for beach and lakefront hiking.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE ADVENTURES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems guide explorers to lesser-known trails prized for tranquility, wildlife sightings, and solitude. These off-the-beaten-path locations range from quiet forest preserves to secluded nature areas teeming with birds and deer. Nature enthusiasts can embrace Michigan's wild side away from crowds, making each outing a unique adventure.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE SPECTACULAR
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the state's stunning display of fall foliage, with top trails passing through fiery hardwood forests and scenic overlooks. Hikers can enjoy crisp air and vibrant colors along ridgelines, lakes, and winding rivers during peak season. This time of year transforms Michigan's landscapes, making autumn hikes especially memorable for photographers and nature lovers.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS AND WATERFALLS
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula is renowned for its rugged wilderness, old-growth forests, and abundant waterfalls. The forest features an extensive network of hiking trails ideal for exploring dense woodlands, pristine rivers, and scenic vistas. Hikers in Ottawa National Forest experience some of Michigan's wildest, most beautiful landscapes.