Fowler MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Fowler, Michigan.
1. Fred Meijer CIS Trail (Fowler to St. Johns)
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATHWAY
The Fred Meijer CIS Trail from Fowler to St. Johns offers a picturesque, family-friendly rail trail experience right from the village of Fowler. Stretching approximately 10 miles through rural landscapes, this multi-use trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying views of Michigan farmland and small communities. Visitors will appreciate the well-maintained, flat path that encourages outdoor activity in all seasons.
2. Fred Meijer CIS Trail (Pewamo to Fowler)
RURAL RAIL TRAIL STRETCH
The Fred Meijer CIS Trail's Pewamo to Fowler section is a 5-mile rail-trail segment known for its quiet, peaceful atmosphere and easy accessibility. Hikers can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride through farmland, wildflowers, and picturesque countryside connecting Pewamo and Fowler. The well-marked path makes it a great option for families or those seeking a gentle outdoor adventure.
3. Horse Trail
EXTENDED WOODLAND ROUTE
The Horse Trail near Fowler winds 4.6 miles through wooded areas, providing hikers and equestrians with a scenic and tranquil outdoor setting. This longer trail is perfect for those seeking a quieter excursion within reach of the local community. Wildlife sightings and seasonal wildflowers add to the natural appeal of this lesser-traveled route.
4. Mallard Trail
SHORT NATURE LOOP
The Mallard Trail is a short, 0.9-mile nature loop ideal for casual walkers and nature enthusiasts in Fowler. The trail features easy terrain and a peaceful atmosphere, making it suitable for families and those looking for a quick outdoor escape. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy a stroll here, as the area attracts a variety of local birds.
5. Muskrat Trail
WILDLIFE OBSERVATION PATH
Muskrat Trail, located in the vicinity of Fowler, offers a brief 0.2-mile walk tailored for those interested in spotting wildlife and enjoying wetland views. The trail's easy access and short length make it a convenient spot for families and beginning hikers. Seasonal changes bring varying flora and fauna, enhancing the trail's year-round appeal.
6. Woodpecker Trail
BIRDING AND FOREST WALK
The Woodpecker Trail provides a 0.6-mile journey through wooded terrain near Fowler, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and forest exploration. With its compact route, this trail is perfect for a peaceful morning or afternoon hike. Nature lovers will appreciate the diversity of birds and plant life found along the path.
7. 17th Infantry Loop Trail
HISTORICAL SHORT LOOP
The 17th Infantry Loop Trail is a brief, 0.2-mile loop that provides a quick nature walk with subtle historical ambiance. Located near Fowler, this path is ideal for families or individuals seeking a short stroll close to the village center. The simple route makes it approachable for all ages and fitness levels.
8. Chippewa Nature Center Trails
LUSH NATURE PRESERVE
Chippewa Nature Center in Midland offers over 19 miles of scenic trails winding through diverse habitats including forests, wetlands, and riverside environments. The center is celebrated for its educational programs and peaceful, well-marked paths, making it a top destination for both avid hikers and families. Visitors enjoy abundant wildlife and interpretive signage highlighting the region's natural history.
9. Sleepy Hollow State Park
LAKESIDE ADVENTURE TRAILS
Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg features over 16 miles of hiking trails encircling Lake Ovid and passing through forest, prairie, and marshland. Hikers are treated to beautiful water views, rich wildlife, and a tranquil park atmosphere. The variety of well-maintained routes accommodates both casual walkers and seasoned trekkers.
10. Anderson Park Trails
COMMUNITY WOODS HIKE
Anderson Park in St. Johns provides easy, accessible trails through woodlands and meadows, making it a favorite for locals in the Clinton County area. The park is perfect for families seeking a quiet outing or for solo hikers wanting to immerse themselves in nature close to town. Ample shade and gentle grades make it enjoyable year-round.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP MICHIGAN TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most acclaimed trails across the state, offering hikers everything from rugged mountain paths to tranquil forest strolls. These trails are celebrated for their scenic beauty, accessibility, and the diverse environments that showcase Michigan's natural splendor. From national parks to local gems, hikers of all experience levels find rewarding adventures throughout the state.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features some of the best beach and coastal trails, winding alongside the Great Lakes' sandy shores and dramatic dunes. Hikers can enjoy refreshing lake breezes, stunning sunset views, and unique ecosystems as they explore these much-loved waterfront routes. From easy boardwalks to challenging dune climbs, Michigan's shoreline trails are a must for beach hikers.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE ROUTES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems represent the state's more secluded and lesser-known trails, ideal for those seeking tranquility and wildlife observation. These quiet paths often traverse dense forests, wetlands, and remote landscapes, making them perfect for hiking in solitude. Birdwatchers and nature photographers especially cherish these off-the-beaten-path destinations.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking leads hikers through some of the state's most spectacular fall foliage routes, where forests transform into vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold. These trails typically wind through hardwood forests and rolling hills, offering panoramic views and crisp autumn air. Each year, residents and visitors flock to these routes to experience Michigan's seasonal beauty at its peak.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest, near Ironwood, features over 196 miles of hiking trails meandering through pristine forests, rugged rivers, and tranquil lakes. This expansive public land in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is celebrated for its old-growth woods, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips. Hikers of all skill levels can find routes that showcase the wild beauty of northern Michigan.