Gladwin MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Gladwin, Michigan.
1. Gladwin City Walking Trail
IN-TOWN SCENIC PATHWAY
The Gladwin City Walking Trail offers a convenient and scenic route for walkers and bikers within the city of Gladwin. Stretching over 6 miles for a round trip, the trail winds through parks and along peaceful residential areas. It's perfect for those seeking an accessible, well-maintained path to enjoy nature close to town.
2. Gladwin State Forest Trails
FOREST EXPLORATION ROUTES
Gladwin State Forest Trails provide miles of well-marked routes through beautiful northern Michigan woodlands. Hikers can experience diverse terrain, abundant wildlife, and the serenity of expansive forest landscapes. These trails are suited for both casual strolls and longer treks for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Trail of Two Cities
CONNECTING GLADWIN & BEAVERTON
The Trail of Two Cities is a paved, all-seasons path designed to connect Gladwin and Beaverton, offering a comfortable journey for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Travelers will pass through scenic sections of Gladwin County and can enjoy small-town and rural views along the way. The trail is ideal for a relaxed outdoor adventure suitable for all ages.
4. North Park Trail
RIVERSIDE RECREATION PATH
North Park Trail provides local access to the Cedar River, with a paved walking and biking path set against a backdrop of green space. This trail is popular for picnics, birdwatching, and light exercise. Its close proximity to downtown Gladwin makes it a favorite for visitors and residents alike.
5. Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail
LONG MULTI-USE CORRIDOR
The Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail stretches over 17.8 miles through Bay City, offering scenic water views and wooded sections along a well-maintained path. Ideal for long-distance hikers and cyclists, this trail connects parks, neighborhoods, and cultural sites. Its length and easy access points make it one of the most popular regional trails.
6. Bay-Zil Rail Trail
RAIL-TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Bay-Zil Rail Trail is a 7-mile multi-use path that runs along a former railroad corridor in Bay City. It provides a smooth, flat hike through rural landscapes and is suited for all skill levels. This peaceful route is excellent for walking, jogging, and cycling away from busy roads.
7. Chippewa Trail
SHORT FAMILY-FRIENDLY PATH
Chippewa Trail is a 4.1-mile route connecting Midland and the Chippewa Nature Center, blending natural beauty with accessibility. This easygoing trail runs through vibrant forests and wetlands, making it a great spot for family outings and nature observation. Its amenities and gentle grades appeal to hikers of all ages.
8. Tawas Bay Pedestrian and Bike Path
WATERFRONT ADVENTURE ROUTE
The Tawas Bay Pedestrian and Bike Path follows the Lake Huron shoreline for several miles in East Tawas. With gorgeous water views and access to beaches and parks, it's a favorite for leisurely strolls and bike rides. The flat, paved surface makes it ideal for all skill levels.
9. Pere Marquette State Trail
EXTENSIVE WOODLAND TRAIL
Pere Marquette State Trail offers a lengthy stretch of scenic hiking through forests, small towns, and open land from Clare to Baldwin. The trail is a favorite for hiking, biking, and even snowmobiling in winter months. It features frequent wildlife sightings and tranquil, natural surroundings.
10. Thomas Township Trail
COMMUNITY GREENWAY PATH
Thomas Township Trail is a well-maintained community trail that meanders through parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. Known for its excellent signage and trail conditions, it offers a pleasant experience for walking, running, and biking. The route is welcoming for families and connects several local points of interest.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP RATED STATEWIDE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's most acclaimed hiking destinations, from dense forests and rugged hills to crystal-clear lake shores. Michigan's best trails are celebrated for their diversity, natural splendor, and accessibility to hikers of all skill levels. Whether exploring remote wilderness or well-trodden paths, these top spots showcase the state's premier hiking experiences.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH & COASTAL WALKS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking presents some of the finest trails along the Great Lakes, offering sandy beaches and dramatic bluffs. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views, cool breezes, and the calming sound of waves as they explore these coastal paths. These trails are perfect for those seeking a unique blend of water and wilderness on their hikes.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems feature lesser-known trails where solitude and wildlife sightings are common. These out-of-the-way spots are perfect for those craving quiet and a deeper connection with pristine forests and wetlands. Each location promises a peaceful escape and a chance to observe Michigan's natural wonders up close.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the best trails for experiencing the state's vibrant fall colors. From hardwood forests to ridgelines and lakeshores, these routes offer spectacular views as the leaves turn shades of red, orange, and gold. Fall hikers will enjoy crisp air and unforgettable scenery during this magical season.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS ADVENTURES
Ottawa National Forest covers nearly a million acres in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering hundreds of miles of hiking trails through ancient forests, waterfalls, and rivers. Hikers can explore challenging backcountry routes or serene, well-marked paths while enjoying an abundance of wildlife and natural wonders. This forest is a highlight for those seeking both adventure and solitude among Michigan's wildest landscapes.