Clinton MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Clinton, Michigan.
1. Clinton River Trail
REGIONAL MULTI-USE PATH
The Clinton River Trail is a popular 16-mile multi-use pathway stretching through Sylvan Lake and several neighboring cities. It offers access to scenic river views, woodland corridors, and urban parks, making it a favorite for hikers, cyclists, and runners. This well-maintained trail connects with larger cross-state routes, providing both short local outings and longer adventures for all skill levels.
2. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
FORESTED LOOP TRAILS
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail offers an extensive system of wooded pathways just outside Clinton, Michigan. Visitors enjoy winding through rich forests on this 5-mile loop, with diverse terrain suiting both hikers and cross-country skiers. The trail's tranquil setting makes it excellent for peaceful nature walks and wildlife watching.
3. Shields Trail
WILDLIFE VIEWING PATH
The Shields Trail provides an immersive experience through wetlands and woodlands within the Pinckney area. At just under 5 miles, this trail is perfect for casual hikers seeking to spot birds and native wildlife. The scenic route features boardwalks and serene natural beauty, ideal for family walks and outdoor photography.
4. River Trail
SCENIC RIVER PATHWAY
River Trail in Dexter offers a short but rewarding 0.9-mile hike alongside picturesque riverbanks. The terrain is gentle, making it accessible for visitors of all abilities who want a quick escape to nature. Beautiful water vistas and leafy surroundings provide a relaxing break near Clinton, Michigan.
5. Orange Loop
LONG WOODLAND CIRCUIT
The Orange Loop is a 7.3-mile circuit weaving through rolling forests and scenic glades near Clinton. This trail is popular with seasoned hikers looking for a challenge and rewarding views. Its elevation changes and variety of environments make it a favorite for extended day hikes.
6. Bluffs Nature Area
URBAN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Bluffs Nature Area is a hidden gem in Ann Arbor, featuring wooded trails with hilltop vistas overlooking the Huron River. The park's well-maintained paths offer peaceful walks through wildflower meadows and mature forests. It's an ideal spot for local hiking, birdwatching, and escaping city bustle.
7. Potawatomi Trail
CLASSIC LOOP ADVENTURE
Potawatomi Trail is one of southeast Michigan's most renowned hiking routes, spanning 17.5 miles through the heart of Pinckney Recreation Area. Popular with hikers and backpackers, it offers challenging hills, lake views, and dense forests. This well-marked loop is perfect for those seeking a full-day or overnight adventure.
8. Joe Prance Nature Trail and Butterfly Gardens
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NATURE WALK
The Joe Prance Nature Trail and Butterfly Gardens in Monroe offer a gentle 0.9-mile stroll through vibrant gardens and natural habitats. Families and children especially enjoy spotting butterflies, wildflowers, and native wildlife throughout the year. Educational signage and easy terrain make this a welcoming spot for all ages.
9. Civic Center Park Walking Trails
COMMUNITY PARK TRAILS
Civic Center Park in Clinton Township features a network of paved and natural-surface walking trails for all seasons. The park offers open green spaces, playgrounds, and shaded paths, providing an inviting setting for casual strolls and daily exercise. Its convenient location and amenities attract both residents and visitors year-round.
10. Mountain Bike Trail
MULTI-USE FOREST PATH
The Mountain Bike Trail in Pinckney serves both hikers and cyclists with its nearly 10-mile route through diverse forests and hilly terrain. Although designed for bikes, hikers enjoy the challenging grades, variety of scenery, and quiet woods. The path is well-marked and accessible from key points within the recreation area.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATEWIDE TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses a selection of the most acclaimed hiking destinations found throughout the state, offering everything from rugged shoreline trails to peaceful inland forests. Whether adventurers seek sweeping vistas, waterfall hikes, or tranquil lake loops, Michigan delivers unforgettable outdoor experiences for all skill levels. These premier trails showcase the state's natural diversity and make Michigan a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SCENIC COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's most beautiful beach and coastal trails, where sandy paths meet the fresh waters of the Great Lakes. From the dramatic dunes of Sleeping Bear to the quiet shores of Lake Huron, these hikes offer sweeping lake views and unique landscapes. Coastal hikes are perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and the relaxing sounds of water along Michigan's stunning shorelines.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems invite adventurers to explore lesser-known trails renowned for seclusion, peace, and excellent wildlife observation. These off-the-beaten-path locations are often tucked in quiet state parks or nature preserves, far from crowds. Such secret spots are ideal for hikers seeking solitude and a deeper connection with Michigan's diverse flora and fauna.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
STUNNING FALL COLORS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the most spectacular hikes for experiencing the state's renowned fall foliage. From hardwood forests in the Lower Peninsula to dramatic bluffs in the Upper Peninsula, these trails put hikers beneath a vibrant canopy of reds, oranges, and golds. Autumn hiking in Michigan offers crisp air, scenic landscapes, and some of the most memorable outdoor experiences of the year.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS ADVENTURE LAND
Ottawa National Forest in Ironwood is a vast expanse of wilderness in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, crisscrossed by hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Visitors encounter waterfalls, old-growth forests, rivers, and remote backcountry—perfect for both short hikes and multi-day treks. The forest's pristine landscapes offer some of Michigan's most exceptional opportunities for outdoor adventure and solitude.