Farwell MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Farwell, Michigan.
1. Pere Marquette Rail-Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL JOURNEY
The Pere Marquette Rail-Trail in Farwell offers a paved 30-mile path that connects downtown Clare to Midland, passing through peaceful forests and charming small towns. This multi-use trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and skating, with helpful amenities like restrooms and easy access points near the Village of Farwell. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy smooth, uninterrupted travel through picturesque central Michigan landscapes.
2. Green Pine Lake Pathway
NATURAL LAKESIDE LOOP
The Green Pine Lake Pathway is a 13-mile multi-use trail near Farwell, traversing woodlands, lakes, and wetlands. Highlights include a one-mile self-guided interpretive section from Mud Lake Campground, offering educational insights about the local ecology. This pathway is great for hiking in all seasons, especially for those seeking a mix of nature and learning.
3. Neithercut Woodland Trail
FORESTED EDUCATIONAL WALK
Located at 4105 W Cadillac Dr, the Neithercut Woodland Trail provides a quiet, 2.5-mile route for hiking and cross-country skiing on the outskirts of Farwell. Managed by Central Michigan University, this trail is known for its peaceful wooded setting and educational opportunities involving local plants and wildlife. It's perfect for families and nature lovers wanting a gentle forest experience.
4. Budd Lake Trail
LAKESIDE TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Budd Lake Trail in Harrison offers a leisurely 4.2-mile loop around the scenic Budd Lake, using a mix of sidewalks and quiet roads. This easy-to-follow route is great for all ages, providing lake views and opportunities for birdwatching. It's a favorite local destination for both relaxed strolls and brisk fitness walks.
5. Mid Michigan Community College Trail
WOODLAND CAMPUS PATHS
The Mid Michigan Community College Trail in Harrison features wooded, hilly trails open year-round for hiking, running, and biking. These well-maintained paths wind through the campus, offering a safe and diverse outdoor experience for all skill levels. The varied landscape makes it an enjoyable spot for walkers and adventure seekers alike.
6. McIreland Trail
URBAN NATURE WALK
The McIreland Trail in Clare is a welcoming in-town route that connects neighborhoods and parks, providing residents a convenient way to enjoy outdoor activities. The trail offers a mix of natural scenery and city amenities, making it ideal for quick walks or jogs. Its accessible location draws both locals and visitors looking to stretch their legs within the city.
7. Forestview Natural Area Trail
SERENE FOREST TRAIL
The Forestview Natural Area Trail is known for its peaceful, wooded environment and serves as a quiet escape close to the city of Clare. Hikers can explore well-marked paths through mature forests, perfect for wildlife observation or a tranquil walk. This trail is popular for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere.
8. Delta East/West Trail
WOODLAND RECREATION TRAILS
The Delta East/West Trail in Clare offers dual-loop options through rolling woodlands, giving hikers a variety of distances and environments to explore. The area is valued for its well-kept paths and opportunities to see local flora and fauna. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, close-to-town hiking destination.
9. Beech Tree Loop
BEAUTIFUL BEECH FOREST
The Beech Tree Loop trail features impressive stands of mature beech trees and a peaceful, gently rolling terrain just outside Clare. Hikers enjoy the vivid greenery in spring and summer and brilliant colors in the fall. This loop is ideal for nature photography and those seeking a quiet, scenic walk.
10. Luton Park Trail
DIVERSE WOODLAND TERRAIN
Luton Park Trail in Rockford boasts a network of trails weaving through forest, meadow, and wetland habitats, making it a destination for hikers of all levels. The park is noted for its extensive wildflowers and birdwatching opportunities throughout the year. With loops of various lengths, it's a favorite for both short walks and longer hikes.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKE DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking represents the state's top-rated trails, from the rugged Porcupine Mountains to the picturesque Manistee River Trail. Michigan hikers enjoy a mix of lakeshore scenery, dense forests, and dramatic bluffs, with options for all skill levels. These celebrated trails offer memorable outdoor experiences year-round across every region of the state.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SPECTACULAR COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's premier beach and coastal trails, including those along Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron. These routes showcase dramatic dune landscapes, sandy beaches, and sweeping water views, perfect for sunrises, sunsets, and birdwatching. Hikers seeking breezy walks or rugged lakeshore adventures find some of the Midwest's best coastal hiking here.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE ESCAPES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails that offer solitude, abundant wildlife, and pristine landscapes across the state. These hidden spots provide a peaceful alternative to busier parks, with opportunities for quiet reflection and close encounters with nature. Outdoor lovers seeking privacy and discovery will find these trails rich with quiet beauty and natural surprises.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ROUTES
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the state's finest trails for experiencing vibrant fall colors, from hardwood forests ablaze in red and gold to scenic overlooks with panoramic views. Popular routes wind through hilly woodlands, lakeshores, and river valleys, drawing hikers during peak foliage season each October. These trails promise an unforgettable spectacle of seasonal color and crisp air for autumn adventurers.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS ADVENTURE TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula near Watersmeet, offers over 500 miles of hiking trails through dense forests, serene lakes, and dramatic waterfalls. Hikers can explore everything from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes, experiencing true wilderness and diverse wildlife along the way. The forest is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, solitude, and stunning natural beauty.