Baldwin MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Baldwin, Michigan.
1. Pine Forest Pathway
FOREST TRAIL BY RIVER
Pine Forest Pathway offers hikers a scenic and accessible experience just northeast of Baldwin. Winding through a majestic forest along the curves of the Baldwin River, this well-marked, mostly flat loop trail is suitable for all skill levels. The interconnected loops begin near the Bray Creek State Forest Campground, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing all year round.
2. Manistee River Trail South
SCENIC RIVER HIKING
Manistee River Trail South is a celebrated hiking destination near Baldwin, renowned for its beautiful river views and diverse landscapes. Hikers can enjoy a well-maintained path that offers gentle elevation changes and access to wildlife sightings along the Manistee River. This trail is perfect for both day hikes and as a segment of longer backpacking adventures in the area.
3. Manistee River Trail Loop
LOOP WITH WATER VIEWS
The Manistee River Trail Loop near Baldwin provides hikers with a popular circuit that combines riverside beauty, forested terrain, and opportunities for overnight backpacking. Known for its suspension bridge crossing and scenic overlooks, this loop is a favorite for both new and experienced hikers. The trail's varied topography and access to natural features make it an ideal multi-day adventure.
4. Backpack the Manistee River Trail
BACKPACKING RIVER ADVENTURE
Backpacking the Manistee River Trail offers a rewarding experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature near Baldwin. The trail navigates alongside the river, passing through hardwood forests, bluffs, and breathtaking scenery, making it a top backpacking destination in western Michigan. Campers and backpackers will appreciate the peaceful campsites and abundant wildlife along the route.
5. Big M Trail
EXPANSIVE FOREST TRAIL
Big M Trail, situated near Wellston, is a multi-use trail system popular for both hiking and mountain biking. Spanning over 18 miles, these trails take hikers through dense forests and rolling hills, offering a tranquil wilderness experience. The trail system is well-marked and provides various loops suitable for different endurance levels.
6. Pere Marquette State Trail
RAIL TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Pere Marquette State Trail is a converted rail trail that stretches westward to Baldwin, catering to hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. Its mostly flat, paved surface and tree-lined surroundings make it ideal for family outings and long-distance exploration. With minimal crowds and scenic countryside views, it's a peaceful retreat for those seeking a leisurely hike.
7. Irons Area Tourist Association Snowmobile Trail
YEAR-ROUND MULTI-USE
Irons Area Tourist Association Snowmobile Trail offers extensive multi-use routes northwest of Baldwin, attracting hikers in the warmer months. This trail meanders through remote forests and gentle hills, providing a quiet escape and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The well-maintained trails are equally suited to snowmobiling and hiking, ensuring all-season adventure.
8. Betsie Valley Trail
SCENIC VALLEY WALK
Betsie Valley Trail begins near Baldwin and winds through forests, wetlands, and historic rail corridors for over 40 miles. Hikers can experience serene views, abundant birdlife, and a variety of wildflowers along the way. The well-maintained path is perfect for both short strolls and extended treks across the countryside.
9. Arcadia Marsh Trail
WETLAND NATURE WALK
Arcadia Marsh Trail, located northeast of Baldwin in Arcadia, features a short and easy walk through a unique wetland ecosystem. Elevated boardwalks allow hikers to observe marsh wildlife and seasonal blooms up close. The trail offers educational signage and birdwatching opportunities, making it family-friendly and accessible.
10. Midland-to-Mackinaw Hiking Trail
LONG-DISTANCE ADVENTURE
The Midland-to-Mackinaw Hiking Trail is a legendary long-distance trek beginning in Midland and stretching over 210 miles north to Mackinaw City. Hikers trace historic trade routes through varied terrain, including forests, wetlands, and small towns. This challenging route attracts adventurers seeking an immersive exploration of Michigan's natural and cultural heritage.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE HIKING PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the most iconic trails across the state, from towering dunes to ancient forests and sparkling rivers. Enthusiasts can find routes suitable for every ability, including scenic loops, rugged mountain ascents, and tranquil lakeside walks. These top-rated hikes showcase Michigan's remarkable diversity and offer breathtaking experiences year-round.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL WALKS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking celebrates the state's extraordinary coastal trails along the shores of the Great Lakes. Hikers enjoy miles of sandy beaches, dramatic dunes, and panoramic lake views, with opportunities for swimming and picnicking along the way. These trails provide some of the best beach hiking experiences in the Midwest, each offering a unique sense of Michigan's waterfront beauty.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TREKS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems introduce hikers to off-the-beaten-path trails offering seclusion and immersive wildlife observation. These less-trafficked routes weave through tranquil forests, remote wetlands, and unspoiled preserves, providing chances to spot rare birds and native animals. Ideal for solitude seekers, these gems reveal Michigan's quiet side away from the crowds.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE HIKES
Michigan Autumn Hiking highlights the state's most vibrant fall foliage routes, where colorful canopies of red, orange, and gold transform the landscapes each autumn. These hikes wind through hardwood forests, scenic bluffs, and lakeshores, offering spectacular views and memorable photo opportunities. Fall is the perfect season to experience Michigan's natural beauty at its most radiant.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAIL SYSTEM
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, spans nearly one million acres and boasts some of the finest hiking in the state. Hikers can explore pristine rivers, dramatic waterfalls, and vast old-growth forests along a multitude of marked trails. This expansive area offers remote wilderness experiences for both day hikes and multi-day excursions, appealing to avid explorers.