Coloma MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Coloma, Michigan.
1. Eliason Nature Reserve Trail
SCENIC NATURE LOOP
Eliason Nature Reserve Trail in Coloma offers hikers a peaceful escape into a forested preserve with gentle terrain and well-maintained paths. The loop winds through the woods and around small wetlands, making it ideal for bird watching and short, leisurely walks. With its close proximity to town, this trail is perfect for both families and solo hikers seeking a quick dose of nature.
2. Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail
RIVERSIDE MULTI-USE PATH
The Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail extends through Niles, offering a paved route along the St. Joseph River for hiking, biking, and accessible strolls. Visitors enjoy scenic river views, bridges, and easy connections to parks and downtown attractions. This trail is especially popular for longer distance hikes or peaceful day trips along the water.
3. Kal-Haven Trail State Park
RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
Kal-Haven Trail State Park spans 33 miles between South Haven and Kalamazoo, following a historic rail corridor through rural Michigan landscapes. Hikers can experience forests, farmland, bridges, and small towns along this flat, crushed limestone path. The trail is suitable for day hikes, long walks, and multi-day adventures with plenty of scenic spots along the way.
4. Van Buren State Park
LAKE MICHIGAN BLUFFS
Van Buren State Park in South Haven features dramatic hiking trails atop sand dunes and wooded bluffs with sweeping views of Lake Michigan. The park offers several miles of trails through forest and along the shoreline, perfect for beach access and sunset walks. It's a favorite destination for both short hikes and relaxing lakeside picnics.
5. Dune Succession Trail
DUNES AND SCENIC VIEWS
Dune Succession Trail highlights the unique ecological changes of towering sand dunes, providing panoramic vistas over Lake Michigan and rare plant life. This short but steep trail includes stairways and boardwalks, ideal for those seeking a quick but rewarding hike. It's a must-visit for nature lovers interested in geology, ecology, and spectacular lake views.
6. Wakazoo Trail (Northwest Trail)
EXTENSIVE FOREST PATH
Wakazoo Trail, also known as the Northwest Trail, stretches over 11 miles through the forests and sand dunes near Saugatuck. With winding paths and varying terrain, it offers hikers a chance to explore both peaceful woods and open dune landscapes. This trail is popular with locals and visitors who want a longer hiking experience on Michigan's west coast.
7. Singing Sands Trail
COASTAL BIKE & HIKE
The Singing Sands Trail in New Buffalo offers a paved route perfect for both hiking and biking, running near the Lake Michigan shoreline. The trail features access to beaches, dunes, and amenities, making it ideal for family outings or connecting to local attractions. Its smooth surface and scenic surroundings appeal to visitors of all ages.
8. Ridge Trail
SHORT WOODLAND WALK
Ridge Trail provides a brief but enjoyable woodland trek within Coloma, offering hikers an opportunity to explore local flora along a gently rolling path. The trail is ideal for those seeking a quick escape into nature without venturing far from town. Its manageable length and shaded route make it popular for casual walks and short hikes.
9. Black River Preserve
RIVERSIDE NATURE RETREAT
Black River Preserve near South Haven features a network of forested trails following the Black River, creating ideal conditions for wildlife spotting and serene hikes. Boardwalks and bridges enhance the experience, especially in spring and fall when migratory birds are prevalent. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquility and biodiversity found along these picturesque river trails.
10. Van Buren Trail State Park
MULTI-USE RAIL TRAIL
Van Buren Trail State Park connects Hartford to South Haven with over 14 miles of rail-trail, offering a diverse mix of forest, farmland, and wetlands. Hikers can enjoy the mostly flat, natural-surface path suitable for all skill levels and ideal for longer treks. This trail provides an excellent way to experience southwest Michigan's rural beauty and abundant wildlife.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP-RATED HIKE EXPERIENCES
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the state's most acclaimed trails, ranging from the rugged Porcupine Mountains to the iconic North Country Trail and the breathtaking Pictured Rocks. Hikers can find everything from dense forests and wild rivers to dramatic cliffs and pristine lakeshores. This collection is perfect for those seeking Michigan's premier hiking experiences across varying landscapes and regions.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAILS & BEACHES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the best trails along Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron, where hikers can enjoy sandy beaches, towering dunes, and scenic overlooks. Popular destinations include Sleeping Bear Dunes, Warren Dunes, and the North Country Trail's lakeshore segments. These coastal hikes are ideal for beach walks, sunset views, and unforgettable waterfront adventures.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE WALKS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems showcases trails off the beaten path, perfect for adventurers seeking peace, solitude, and encounters with wildlife. These little-known spots include lesser-visited state parks, secluded forests, and quiet nature preserves brimming with native species. Hikers will appreciate the tranquil settings and increased chances for bird watching and wildlife observation.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the state's most beautiful fall trails, renowned for vibrant reds, golds, and oranges each October. From the Upper Peninsula's hardwood forests to lower Michigan's rolling hills, hikers can immerse themselves in breathtaking seasonal colors. These hikes provide the perfect backdrop for photography, crisp air walks, and classic autumn leaf peeping.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS TRAIL ADVENTURES
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula offers miles of pristine hiking trails through boreal forests, cascading rivers, and remote wilderness. Hikers can explore famous paths such as the North Country Trail, Black River Scenic Byway, and wilderness areas full of waterfalls and wildlife. With its vast natural beauty and sense of remoteness, Ottawa is a top destination for serious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.