Gaylord MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Gaylord, Michigan.
1. Pigeon River Country State Forest
VAST FOREST WILDERNESS
Pigeon River Country State Forest is a sprawling 109,000-acre forest teeming with diverse wildlife, including Michigan's only free-ranging elk herd. Visitors can explore dozens of trails winding through old-growth woods, clear rivers, and scenic vistas that feel remote and wild. The forest offers routes ranging from casual walks to challenging backcountry hikes, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Pickerel Lake Pathway
SCENIC LAKE LOOP
Pickerel Lake Pathway offers a scenic 2-mile loop nestled among old pine forests and cedar swamps near the quiet shores of Pickerel Lake. Hikers are treated to tranquil lake views throughout the route, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy peaceful nature sounds. The trail's gentle terrain makes it accessible for casual hikers and families seeking a serene day outdoors.
3. Pine Baron Pathway
FAMILY FRIENDLY LOOPS
Pine Baron Pathway includes four short, well-marked loops averaging two miles each, winding through peaceful pine and hardwood forests just outside Gaylord. With gentle terrain, benches for resting, and open clearings for picnics, it is ideal for families and beginner hikers. The area is rich with wildlife, so keep a lookout for birds and deer as you hike.
4. North Central State Trail
RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
The North Central State Trail stretches 61 miles from Gaylord to Mackinaw City, offering a picturesque journey for hikers, cyclists, and snowmobilers alike. This rail-trail features mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for all skill levels, with varied scenery from forests and rivers to charming small towns. The trail is perfect for both short day hikes and longer excursions through Northern Michigan's heartland.
5. Aspen Park Trail
URBAN NATURE ESCAPE
Aspen Park Trail is a popular local gem featuring paved and unpaved loops through mature woodlands on the edge of Gaylord. With wildlife observation areas, boardwalks, and scenic overlooks, it is a favorite for families, runners, and dog walkers seeking a quick nature break. The park also has cross-country ski trails in winter, making it a year-round destination.
6. High Country Pathway
CHALLENGING LOOP HIKE
High Country Pathway is an 80-mile loop traversing the rugged heart of Pigeon River Country near Vanderbilt and is considered one of the most demanding long-distance hikes in Michigan. Hikers can expect rolling hills, remote woodlands, and pristine river views throughout this adventurous trail. The pathway is perfect for experienced backpackers looking for solitude and a true wilderness challenge.
7. Sturgeon River Preserve Trail
RIVER AND SWAMP HAVEN
Sturgeon River Preserve Trail offers a quiet hiking experience along Michigan's fastest river, with boardwalks traversing wetlands, ancient forests, and open meadows. The preserve is a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking tranquil river views close to Gaylord. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon trek surrounded by unspoiled nature.
8. Gaylord State Forest Pathway
DIVERSE WOODLAND ROUTES
Gaylord State Forest Pathway is a network of well-maintained trails featuring varying loop lengths through northern hardwood and pine forests. The gently rolling terrain and scenic woodland views offer a classic Michigan hiking experience for visitors of all ages. Wildlife sightings are common, adding interest to every visit.
9. Wah Wah Soo Trail
LAKESIDE FOREST WALK
Wah Wah Soo Trail offers a short and easy hike near the shores of Otsego Lake, perfect for beginners or families with small children. The trail meanders through shaded forests and provides quick access to the lakefront for swimming or picnicking after your hike. It's an accessible option for a relaxing day outdoors close to town.
10. Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve
HISTORIC NATURE SITE
Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve features over 700 acres of protected land with an extensive trail network passing through forests, meadows, and past historic sawmill ruins. The preserve is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife photography, with well-marked paths for all ability levels. Interpretive signs enhance the experience by providing insights into local history and natural features.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATEWIDE TRAIL FAVORITES
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the premier trails found across the entire state, from the rugged Upper Peninsula to scenic Lower Peninsula destinations. Iconic routes such as the North Country Trail, Porcupine Mountains, and Sleeping Bear Dunes offer a diverse range of landscapes for every type of hiker. These trails showcase Michigan's natural wonders, including forests, waterfalls, lakeshores, and vibrant wildlife.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking offers some of the best beach and coastal hiking in the Midwest, with hundreds of miles of sandy trails and dramatic lake views. Hikers can explore routes along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, traversing dunes, bluffs, and lighthouses. These trails are perfect for those seeking refreshing breezes, birdwatching, and spectacular sunsets over the Great Lakes.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE ROUTES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems spotlights lesser-known trails that offer quiet solitude and exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation. These secluded routes meander through untouched forests, rare wetlands, and remote valleys, providing a peaceful escape from the crowds. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, these trails reveal Michigan's wilder, quieter side.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking presents the state's top destinations for fall color, where forests burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Classic trails such as those in Hartwick Pines, Porcupine Mountains, and the Jordan River Valley offer unforgettable foliage displays. Crisp air and sweeping overlooks make these autumn hikes a must-experience for leaf-peepers.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WESTERN UP WILDERNESS
Ottawa National Forest covers nearly one million acres in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula and provides a vast playground of hiking opportunities. Trails travel through old-growth forests, beside wild rivers, and to remote waterfalls, making it an adventurer's paradise. With abundant wildlife and opportunities for backcountry camping, it's ideal for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience.