Grant MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Grant, Michigan.
1. Manistee River Trail
RIVERSIDE HIKING EXPERIENCE
Manistee River Trail offers hikers a scenic riverside adventure with dramatic bluffs, mature forests, and constant river views. The well-marked path traverses over footbridges and through lush woodlands, making it a favorite for both day hikes and overnight backpacking trips. Wildlife spotting and picturesque vistas along the Manistee River make this trail a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Crow's Nest/Tallmadge Woods Trail
FORESTED RIDGE RAMBLE
Crow's Nest/Tallmadge Woods Trail is known for its towering hardwoods, rolling terrain, and serene woodland setting. The varied elevation offers multiple scenic overlooks, especially vibrant during autumn. Hikers enjoy well-maintained paths perfect for a quiet walk or a moderate workout close to the Grand River.
3. Forestview Natural Area Trail
TRANQUIL NATURE WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail in Grant is a peaceful, family-friendly hiking destination surrounded by native Michigan woodlands. The trail features easy walking loops, interpretive signs, and opportunities to observe wildlife in a quiet setting. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing trek or an educational outing in the heart of Newaygo County.
4. Old Fishtown Trail — Water Tower Loop
HISTORIC WATERFRONT PATH
Old Fishtown Trail — Water Tower Loop takes hikers through the storied fishing village of Leland, blending history with a lakeside hiking experience. The path loops around the iconic water tower and along picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline. This trail offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty for both locals and visitors.
5. Delta East/West Trail
LAKESIDE HIKING LOOP
Delta East/West Trail is a popular suburban trail system offering easy walking and biking opportunities along tranquil lakes and woodlands. The well-kept paths are perfect for all skill levels, with plenty of benches and scenic rest stops along the way. It's an ideal spot for families, joggers, and anyone seeking a scenic escape near Lansing.
6. Newaygo State Park Trails
PINE FOREST TREKKING
Newaygo State Park Trails feature winding paths through old-growth pine forests perched above the Hardy Dam. Hikers can enjoy dramatic overlooks of the Muskegon River and the peaceful ambiance of undisturbed nature. With trail options for different fitness levels, it's a great destination for both short strolls and longer hikes.
7. White River Pathway
RIVERSIDE NATURE TRAIL
White River Pathway meanders along the crystal-clear White River through scenic forests and wetlands. This hike offers abundant opportunities for birdwatching, fishing access, and peaceful riverside relaxation. The pathway is well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a moderate hike near Newaygo County.
8. Hardy Dam Rustic Nature Trail
LAKESIDE WILDERNESS HIKE
Hardy Dam Rustic Nature Trail provides a rugged lakeside hiking experience along the Hardy Pond. The trail weaves through oak and pine forests with frequent water views and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife. It's a favorite for those seeking a more remote and rustic trek just north of Grant.
9. North Country National Scenic Trail
NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED PATH
The North Country National Scenic Trail passes through White Cloud, offering a segment of the largest national trail in the United States. Hikers experience varied terrain including hardwood forests, wetlands, and open meadows, all marked by excellent signage. It's perfect for both long-distance backpackers and day hikers who want to explore a piece of a vast cross-country trail.
10. Branstrom Park Trails
CITY PARK WOODLANDS
Branstrom Park Trails in Fremont feature a network of paved and natural-surface paths winding through hilly woodlands and around a scenic pond. The park's trails are well-loved for their variety, appealing to both families and hikers looking for challenging climbs. It's an accessible local option for outdoor recreation year-round.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATEWIDE TOP TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the premier trails found throughout the state, from the rugged Upper Peninsula to the lush Lower Peninsula. These top-rated hikes showcase Michigan's diverse environments, including dense forests, dramatic lakeshore cliffs, and rolling inland hills. Hikers can discover both challenging adventures and accessible family trails, representing the very best the state has to offer.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL LAKEFRONT WALKS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking spotlights spectacular hiking along the state's extensive Great Lakes shores. Trails here feature sandy beaches, sweeping dunes, and dramatic lake views, offering unforgettable experiences at places like Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pictured Rocks. Beachcombing, birdwatching, and breathtaking sunsets are highlights of these coastal trails.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE GETAWAYS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights lesser-known trails perfect for those seeking solitude and wildlife observation. These hikes traverse quiet forests, marshlands, and remote parklands, providing a tranquil escape from crowds. Adventurous hikers can discover rare plants, secret lakes, and encounters with native wildlife along these peaceful paths.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE SPECTACULAR
Michigan Autumn Hiking offers some of the best fall foliage views in the Midwest, as hardwood forests blaze with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Popular autumn hikes feature leaf-strewn trails, crisp air, and sweeping overlooks in state parks and forests. Visitors can experience the magic of Michigan's seasonal transformation from September through late October.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST FORESTED WILDERNESS
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula boasts hundreds of miles of scenic hiking trails through deep woods, along pristine rivers, and past tranquil lakes. Hikers can explore short interpretive loops or tackle rugged backcountry treks in a true wilderness setting. Wildlife viewing, old-growth trees, and peaceful solitude are hallmarks of the Ottawa hiking experience.