Cadillac MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Cadillac, Michigan.
1. Cadillac Pathway
POPULAR MULTI-USE TRAIL
Cadillac Pathway offers over 11 miles of scenic, multi-use trails just outside Cadillac, Michigan. The pathway winds through diverse forests and rolling terrain, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. This well-maintained trail system is perfect for all skill levels and is a favorite choice for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
2. North Country Trail System
NATIONAL SCENIC ROUTE
The North Country Trail System traces its way through the Cadillac region, providing access to one of the nation's longest trails. Hikers can explore miles of forest, meadows, and wildflower fields, often catching glimpses of wildlife. The proximity to Cadillac makes it easy for visitors to experience both short and long sections of this renowned trail.
3. Heritage Trail at William Mitchell State Park
NATURALIST LAKESHORE WALK
The Heritage Trail at Mitchell State Park provides a beautiful lakeside hiking experience along the shores of Lake Mitchell and Lake Cadillac. Interpretive signs along the route share insights into the region's natural and cultural history. This easy walking trail is ideal for families interested in wildlife and water views.
4. Lake Cadillac Foot & Bike Path
SCENIC LAKE LOOP
The Lake Cadillac Foot & Bike Path is a paved loop circling the picturesque Lake Cadillac in the heart of the city. Hikers enjoy a mix of lake views, parks, and shaded stretches as the trail traverses both urban and natural areas. The accessible trail welcomes walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike.
5. Clam River Greenway
URBAN NATURE WALKWAY
The Clam River Greenway is a serene riverside path stretching through the city of Cadillac. This paved trail provides an inviting escape for walkers looking to enjoy river views, landscaped gardens, and public art installations. It is a favorite for locals seeking a peaceful stroll within city limits.
6. Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park
LONG-DISTANCE RAIL TRAIL
Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park is a premier multi-use trail stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. The northern section, accessible from Cadillac, offers a tranquil journey through forests, farmland, and small towns. Hikers can enjoy both short day hikes and longer treks on this former railroad corridor.
7. Mackenzie Pathway
FORESTED HIKING GETAWAY
Mackenzie Pathway is a gently rolling trail system located just south of downtown Cadillac. Surrounded by tall pines and hardwoods, the trail offers a peaceful setting for both short hikes and longer adventures. Its well-marked routes make it an appealing option for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
8. Big-M Recreation Area
HILLS AND WOODLAND TRAILS
Big-M Recreation Area, located near Manistee, features over 40 miles of rolling hills and forested trails within the Manistee National Forest. Popular for both day hikers and cross-country skiers, the trails offer a mix of moderate to challenging routes. The lush woodlands and diverse ecosystems make this a top regional destination for outdoor adventure.
9. Pere Marquette State Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
Pere Marquette State Trail follows a former railroad bed, connecting Cadillac with nearby communities through wooded landscapes and open countryside. The mostly flat, multi-use surface is great for walkers and cyclists looking for a scenic, easygoing route. Wildlife sightings and rural views are common along this family-friendly trail.
10. Manistee River Trail
RIVER VALLEY SCENERY
Manistee River Trail, just west of Cadillac near Mesick, offers hikers dramatic bluff-top vistas and serene riverside walks. The trail connects with the North Country Trail, creating a popular loop for backpackers. Its varied terrain and stunning river views make it a favorite for both day hikes and multi-day excursions.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the wide variety of top-tier hiking opportunities found throughout the state. From lush forests and rolling dunes to dramatic waterfalls and scenic overlooks, hikers can experience diverse landscapes across Michigan's public lands. Year-round, the state's extensive network of trails promises memorable adventure for all experience levels.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
LAKESIDE TRAIL ADVENTURES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's remarkable beach and coastal trails, especially along the shores of the Great Lakes. Hikers can traverse sandy dunes, dramatic cliffs, and stretches of unspoiled shoreline, all while enjoying views of sparkling blue waters. These trails are perfect for those seeking fresh lake breezes, birdwatching, and stunning sunsets.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems refers to the lesser-known trails that offer an abundance of peace, seclusion, and opportunities for wildlife observation. These less-traveled paths wind through tranquil forests, marshes, and quiet preserves where hikers may encounter deer, birds, and other local wildlife. Perfect for solitude seekers, these trails showcase Michigan's quieter, wilder side.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAIL EXPERIENCES
Michigan Autumn Hiking draws hikers to blazing fall color displays in forests, state parks, and national lakeshores across the state. Trails wind through maple and oak woodlands where vibrant reds, oranges, and golds paint the landscape each autumn. These routes are especially popular from late September through October for those seeking classic Midwest autumn scenery.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS HIKING PARADISE
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, offers hundreds of miles of trails through pristine wilderness. Hikers can explore old-growth forests, waterfall-laden rivers, and remote lakes on both short day hikes and extended backpacking trips. The forest's vastness and natural diversity make it a premier hiking destination for those seeking immersion in nature.