Au Gres MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Au Gres, Michigan.
1. Tawas Point State Park
COASTAL DUNES AND TRAILS
Tawas Point State Park offers hikers a unique landscape of sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and picturesque Lake Huron views. Trail options wind along the shoreline and through natural habitats, making it popular for birdwatching and leisurely strolls. The park is known for its scenic lighthouse and is a premier destination for those seeking coastal Michigan hiking at its finest.
2. Corsair Hiking and Cross Country Skiing Trail
FORESTED LOOP TRAILS
The Corsair Trail System features over 44 miles of interconnected loops winding through the Huron National Forest. Hikers enjoy a peaceful setting among rolling hills, quiet streams, and mature hardwood forests. This popular trail network is suitable for all skill levels and offers an immersive northern Michigan wilderness experience.
3. Bay City Recreation Area
WETLANDS AND WOODLANDS
Bay City Recreation Area boasts a rich mix of wetlands, woodlands, and meadows along the shore of Saginaw Bay. Its extensive trail system includes paved and unpaved routes ideal for hiking, birding, and nature observation. Visitors find scenic overlooks and interpretive signs highlighting the area's diverse wildlife and habitats.
4. Tobico Marsh and Frank N. Andersen Nature Trail
MARSHLAND HABITAT HIKES
The Tobico Marsh and Frank N. Andersen Nature Trail offer immersive hikes through one of Michigan's largest coastal wetlands. Elevated boardwalks and observation towers allow for excellent birdwatching and serene marsh views. The diverse plant and wildlife communities make this a favorite destination for exploring natural Michigan.
5. Rifle River Recreation Area
RIVERSIDE FOREST TRAILS
Rifle River Recreation Area features more than 10,000 acres of rolling woodlands, pristine lakes, and fast-flowing streams. Hikers can enjoy a variety of looped trails with opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and peaceful solitude. The park's trails suit both casual walkers and those seeking more adventurous terrain.
6. Point Au Gres Park
SHORELINE CAMPING & TRAILS
Point Au Gres Park sits along the Lake Huron shoreline and offers easy access to sandy beaches plus several short nature walks. The site features rental cabins, campsites, and a day-use area, making it a convenient launch point for outdoor adventures. Walkers enjoy tranquil lakefront scenes and abundant wildlife in a relaxed park setting.
7. Au Gres City Park & Riverfront Campground
RIVERFRONT WALKING TRAILS
Au Gres City Park & Riverfront Campground provides scenic paved paths along the river, perfect for leisurely strolls and wildlife viewing. Guests enjoy broad recreational facilities, river access, and the peaceful charm of a small waterfront town. The park is ideal for families and travelers seeking a relaxing hike close to town amenities.
8. Bay Avenue Walking Route
TOWN-SIDE WALKING PATH
Bay Avenue offers a short, accessible walking route close to downtown Au Gres and Lake Huron. This path is well-suited for casual walkers looking for a peaceful stroll with pleasant neighborhood and water views. Its convenient location makes it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking quick outdoor exercise.
9. Blue Water Trail
SCENIC WATERFRONT EXPLORATION
The Blue Water Trail in Au Gres is designed primarily for paddling but offers shoreline hiking and exploration opportunities. Hikers can enjoy walking along stretches of beach and nearby parks, experiencing Michigan's freshwater coastline and diverse birdlife. The trail starts at Point Au Gres Park, making it an excellent base for island and shore exploration.
10. Rifle River Water Trail
RIPARIAN PATHWAYS
Rifle River Water Trail traces the winding course of the Rifle River, with hiking opportunities along the riverbanks and adjoining parks. This route offers peaceful riverside scenery and is popular for both wildlife viewing and gentle walks. The area is perfect for those seeking a combination of aquatic and trail-based adventures.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
ICONIC TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking refers to the state's most celebrated trails, including the North Country Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness. These destinations showcase diverse terrains, from towering dunes and old-growth forests to sparkling inland lakes and rivers. Hikers can experience Michigan's natural splendor, varied ecosystems, and unspoiled beauty on these renowned routes.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL BEACH ADVENTURES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's unparalleled beach and coastal trail experiences. Places like Sleeping Bear Dunes, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Tawas Point State Park provide miles of sandy paths, dramatic bluffs, and sweeping lake vistas. Hikers enjoy unique access to the Great Lakes' shores, with ever-changing scenery and abundant wildlife.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE ESCAPES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems spotlights off-the-beaten-path trails perfect for solitude and wildlife observation. From lesser-known forest preserves to quiet river corridors, these locations provide a peaceful retreat away from crowds. Hikers can expect rewarding encounters with native flora and fauna in tranquil, untouched settings.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TREK
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the best trails for vibrant seasonal color, with routes winding through hardwood forests and scenic vistas. Popular spots like Hartwick Pines and the Upper Peninsula deliver breathtaking displays of red, orange, and gold foliage. Hikers find crisp air, peaceful woods, and panoramic autumn views throughout the state.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, boasts hundreds of miles of hiking trails through pristine woodlands, lakes, and waterfalls. Visitors encounter lightly traveled paths amid old-growth forests and abundant wildlife. The forest offers countless opportunities for backcountry adventure, camping, and immersive nature exploration.