Baraga MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Baraga, Michigan.
1. North Country Trail
LONG-DISTANCE ADVENTURE PATH
The North Country Trail offers hikers an impressive journey, stretching about 192 miles through the western Upper Peninsula near Baraga. This trail showcases a diverse landscape of waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and dense forests, epitomizing the rugged beauty of Michigan. It's a prime choice for those seeking extended hikes and a true immersion into Michigan's wild, uninhabited terrain.
2. Baraga Nature Trail
EASY FORESTED LOOP
The Baraga Nature Trail is a 0.75-mile loop that winds gently through a peaceful forested area within Baraga. Easily accessible from the campground, this trail is great for families and casual hikers interested in a relaxing walk amid natural surroundings. Its well-marked path provides an ideal introduction to the region's flora and fauna.
3. Mount Arvon Trail
HIGHEST POINT IN MICHIGAN
The Mount Arvon Trail leads hikers to Michigan's highest natural elevation, set in the remote forests near L'Anse. The route offers a moderately challenging hike rewarded by panoramic vistas over the Upper Peninsula's lakes and hills. It's a must-visit for summit-seekers wanting a sense of accomplishment amid serene wilderness.
4. Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
RUGGED WILDERNESS CANYON
The Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness provides a thrilling hiking experience, featuring dramatic cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and deep, forested canyons. Trails in this area are best suited for experienced hikers who crave adventure and scenic solitude. The wilderness is a spectacular example of the Upper Peninsula's natural power and beauty.
5. Silver Mountain Trail
SUMMIT VIEWS & HISTORY
Silver Mountain Trail takes visitors up a steep, rocky path to an old fire lookout atop Silver Mountain. After a brief but rewarding climb, hikers are treated to sweeping views of the Sturgeon River Valley and surrounding forests. The mountain's rich history and panoramic sights make it a local favorite.
6. Little Mountain Trail
SHORT HIKE, BIG VIEWS
The Little Mountain Trail is a short but rewarding hike just outside L'Anse, quickly ascending through forest to a rocky overlook. At the summit, hikers enjoy picturesque views of Keweenaw Bay and the distant Huron Mountains. Its accessibility and stunning vistas make it perfect for families and sunset enthusiasts.
7. Canyon Gorge Trail
SPECTACULAR WATERFALL SCENERY
The Canyon Gorge Trail in L'Anse leads visitors along the rim of an impressive gorge carved by powerful waterfalls and the Sturgeon River. This easy trail offers multiple viewpoints to witness the dramatic landscape and surging water below. It's an accessible route for anyone wishing to experience the area's geologic wonders.
8. Bergland to Sidnaw Rail-Trail
RAIL-TRAIL THROUGH WOODLAND
The Bergland to Sidnaw Rail-Trail stretches across scenic northwoods, following an old railroad grade through forests and occasional open farmland near Sidnaw. This long, multi-use trail is ideal for hikers looking for peace and the occasional wildlife sighting. Its gentle grades make it suitable for hikers, bikers, and families alike.
9. Escarpment Trail
DRAMATIC MOUNTAIN RIDGE
The Escarpment Trail in the Porcupine Mountains offers some of Michigan's most breathtaking ridgeline hiking, with sweeping views over Lake of the Clouds and the vast wilderness valley below. The trail is moderately to strenuously graded, rewarding hikers with awe-inspiring scenery throughout. It's an essential destination for those seeking dramatic vistas in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
10. Iron Belle Trail
STATE-SPANNING MULTI-USE PATH
The Iron Belle Trail is Michigan's ambitious hiking and biking route, running from Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula to Belle Isle in Detroit. Its Upper Peninsula segment features remote woods, lakes, and rivers, allowing hikers to experience Michigan's varied terrain and expansive natural character. The trail is well-marked, providing access points for day hikes or extended treks.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the premier trails and parks that define Michigan's outdoor hiking reputation. From the Porcupine Mountains to Pictured Rocks, the state boasts an array of landscapes—including old growth forests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes—making it a hiker's paradise. These top-rated trails offer everything from challenging mountain climbs to peaceful shoreline strolls, suitable for every level of adventurer.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SANDY BEACHES & CLIFFS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking introduces some of the state's most beloved coastal hikes, where sandy beaches meet wild, rocky shores. Destinations like Pictured Rocks and the Lake Superior shoreline offer trails with breathtaking water vistas, sandstone cliffs, and cool, refreshing breezes. These routes are ideal for hikers seeking the unique beauty of Michigan's freshwater coasts.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECRET TRAILS & WILDLIFE
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems takes explorers off the beaten path to secluded trails, nature preserves, and less-traveled state parks. These quiet spots are prime for wildlife observation, birdwatching, and peace away from the crowds, often featuring pristine forests and tranquil lakes. These hidden gems promise immersive solitude and rich encounters with Michigan's wild inhabitants.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
SPECTACULAR FALL COLORS
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the state's vibrant fall foliage, when maples, oaks, and aspens ignite the forests with red, orange, and gold hues. Trails like the Escarpment, North Country, and Chapel Falls offer unforgettable leaf-peeping opportunities amid crisp autumn air. Each year, hikers flock to these routes to marvel at the seasonal magic and photograph Michigan's natural splendor.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS ESCAPE
Ottawa National Forest spans nearly one million acres of pristine Upper Peninsula wilderness, offering a vast network of hiking trails through old-growth woods, streams, and serene lakes. Popular routes such as the North Country Trail and wilderness loops immerse visitors in deep forests, with excellent chances to spot wildlife and enjoy tranquil surroundings. The forest is a top destination for hikers seeking adventure, solitude, and breathtaking beauty year-round.