Custer MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Custer, Michigan.
1. Pere Marquette Rail-Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE TRAIL
Pere Marquette Rail-Trail offers a picturesque, flat route winding through forests and farmland, perfect for hikers of all abilities. The trail provides a peaceful experience with easy access from Custer, Michigan, and is known for its well-maintained surfaces and tranquil scenery. Hikers can enjoy birdwatching, wildflowers, and the gentle ambiance of the Michigan countryside along this beloved path.
2. North Country Trail
NATIONALLY SIGNIFICANT PATH
The North Country Trail is a segment of a sprawling national hiking trail that traverses diverse landscapes around Custer, Michigan. This portion of the trail takes hikers through pine forests, wetlands, and open meadows, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and solitude. Trailheads in the area make it easy for both short excursions and longer treks, appealing to both casual hikers and backpackers.
3. Ludington State Park Trails
BEACH & FOREST WALKING
Ludington State Park Trails deliver stunning dune landscapes, lush forests, and scenic views along Lake Michigan's shoreline. Trail options range from easy strolls to longer hikes that explore beaches, marshes, and the historic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. This popular park is a short drive from Custer and is a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts.
4. Big M Recreation Area
ROLLING WOODS & HILLS
Big M Recreation Area, just northeast of Custer, is renowned for its rolling terrain and looped trail system within the Manistee National Forest. Hikers can enjoy peaceful woods, fern-filled valleys, and an extensive network of routes suitable for both short and challenging hikes. The area is less crowded than other parks, making it a fine destination for solitude amidst nature.
5. Pentwater Pathway
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ROUTES
Pentwater Pathway is a favorite for families, offering gentle hiking loops through quiet pine forests near the village of Pentwater. Well-marked trails make navigation simple, and the area is known for its abundant birdlife and peaceful atmosphere. Hikers of all skill levels can appreciate the scenic beauty and accessibility of this popular local gem.
6. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area
RARE FRESHWATER DUNES
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area near Custer boasts rare and stunning freshwater dune ecosystems along Lake Michigan's shore. The trails meander through open sand dunes, pine forests, and secluded beaches, offering a unique blend of habitats. Hikers are treated to panoramic lake views, abundant wildlife, and the opportunity for backcountry camping.
7. Sable River Trail
RIVERSIDE HIKING PATH
Sable River Trail follows the gentle curves of the Sable River, providing a peaceful walk through forests and wetlands. The trail is easily accessible and offers scenic views along the riverbank, perfect for those seeking a tranquil, nature-filled escape. Birdwatchers and photographers will find numerous opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy the serene riverside setting.
8. Copper Creek Trail
WOODLAND LOOP HIKE
Copper Creek Trail provides a moderate loop through a mix of hardwood and pine forests just outside of Custer. The trail is well marked and features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for most hikers. Along the way, visitors can enjoy wildflowers, quiet streams, and the soothing sounds of northern Michigan woods.
9. Lincoln Hills Pathway
UPLAND FOREST ADVENTURE
Lincoln Hills Pathway is known for its upland forest setting, winding through rolling hills and mixed woodlands north of Ludington. Hikers can experience lengthy, well-maintained trails with beautiful views, especially during the autumn months. The pathway offers several route options, catering to both moderate and longer-distance hikes.
10. Fort Custer Recreation Area
LAKESIDE TRAILS & WILDS
Fort Custer Recreation Area provides more than 40 miles of hiking trails circling three scenic lakes and traversing a mix of woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. Located in Augusta, the park offers varied terrain for hikers, as well as opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Its well-marked trails are popular for both day-trippers and those looking to explore Michigan's natural diversity.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses a collection of the state's most awe-inspiring trails, from the rugged cliffs of the Upper Peninsula to serene inland forests and river valleys. Michigan is celebrated for its well-maintained trails that offer a range of difficulty levels and scenery, catering to both novice and experienced hikers. Exploring these top destinations promises memorable views, diverse wildlife, and a true sense of Michigan's outdoor spirit.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
EXPLORING COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights some of the best beach and coastal trails in the state, featuring sandy dunes, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking vistas. Trails along the Great Lakes provide hikers with unique access to miles of unspoiled shoreline, scenic overlooks, and tranquil beaches. These coastal paths are perfect for those seeking the refreshing experience of hiking alongside Michigan's iconic waters.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUSION & WILDLIFE WATCHING
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems offer secluded trails ideal for hikers in search of solitude and outstanding opportunities for wildlife observation. These lesser-known routes traverse quiet forests, undisturbed wetlands, and out-of-the-way preserves, providing a peaceful escape from busier paths. For those who value tranquility and encounters with native species, these hidden gems promise a truly immersive nature experience.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WONDERLANDS
Michigan Autumn Hiking presents the state's top destinations for breathtaking fall foliage, with trails winding through forests ablaze in red, orange, and gold. Scenic lookouts and wooded pathways capture the essence of Michigan's colorful season, attracting hikers and photographers alike. Whether in the Upper or Lower Peninsula, autumn hiking in Michigan delivers unforgettable views and crisp, invigorating air.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest, headquartered in Ironwood, is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails that cut through pristine forests, waterfalls, and remote lakes. This expansive forest covers nearly one million acres in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, offering both short and multi-day adventures with a true sense of wildness. Ideal for those seeking immersion in nature, Ottawa National Forest is a premier destination for rugged and scenic hiking experiences.