Harrisville MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Harrisville, Michigan.
1. Harrisville-Cedar Run Nature Trail
FORESTED PARK EXPERIENCE
The Harrisville-Cedar Run Nature Trail is a scenic two-mile path winding through dense pine and cedar forests inside Harrisville State Park. Visitors enjoy tranquil surroundings, an abundance of native flora, and opportunities for wildlife observation along this gently rolling trail. The trail also connects to other park features and is suited for hiking in fair weather or cross-country skiing in winter.
2. Harrisville Heritage Trail
HISTORIC PARKWAY WALK
Harrisville Heritage Trail is a paved, two-mile route running north and south through Harrisville State Park and connecting the park with the rest of the city via Third Street. The trail offers hikers easy access to both the park's sandy beaches and forested areas, making it a favorite for leisurely walks, biking, and birdwatching. Its convenient layout passes by campgrounds and day-use areas, ideal for a family-friendly outing.
3. Huron Sunrise Trail
LAKE HURON VIEWS
The Huron Sunrise Trail stretches along the Lake Huron shoreline near Alpena, offering panoramic water vistas, easy walking paths, and access to scenic beaches. The well-maintained trail is popular for both short strolls and longer hikes, with interpretive signage highlighting local history and wildlife. Hikers appreciate the cooling lake breezes and the picturesque coastal scenery throughout the seasons.
4. Alpena Bi-Path
URBAN-RURAL CONNECTOR
The Alpena Bi-Path is a 14-mile trail network that weaves through both urban landscapes and natural areas around Alpena. Hikers can explore routes along the Thunder Bay River, through city parks, and past historic sites, making it an excellent path for experiencing diverse environments. The trail is accessible for all skill levels and offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, jogging, and cycling.
5. Negwegon State Park Trails
WILDERNESS COAST HIKING
Negwegon State Park features miles of primitive trails through isolated hardwood forests, wetlands, and undisturbed Lake Huron shoreline. Hikers seeking solitude appreciate the park's remote location, rustic atmosphere, and exceptional birdwatching. With few amenities and no crowds, these trails deliver a truly rugged and tranquil hiking experience.
6. Sturgeon Point Lighthouse Trail
HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSE HIKE
The Sturgeon Point Lighthouse Trail winds through meadows and woodlands toward the iconic lighthouse and its stunning views of Lake Huron. This easy trail is ideal for history buffs, families, and nature lovers who enjoy combining a breezy coastal walk with maritime heritage. The area is also noted for its wildflowers, birdlife, and peaceful picnic spots.
7. Alcona Dam Pond Trail
RIVERFRONT NATURE WALK
Alcona Dam Pond Trail follows the Au Sable River, offering hikers scenic views of quiet waters, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. The trailhead is conveniently located near the dam and is popular for fishing, birdwatching, and photography. With a relatively flat terrain, it's suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities.
8. Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area
SERENE FOREST LOOPS
The Hoist Lake Foot Travel Area encompasses over 20 miles of looped trails through peaceful hardwood and pine forests interspersed with pristine lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts cherish the varied terrain, opportunities for backpacking, and the chance to spot deer, beaver, and waterfowl. The secluded setting provides a perfect escape into nature for both day and overnight hikers.
9. Thompson's Harbor State Park Trails
COASTAL NATURE SANCTUARY
Thompson's Harbor State Park offers miles of rustic footpaths winding through rare limestone plains, fragrant cedar forests, and along Lake Huron's unspoiled coastline. Hikers are treated to wildflower displays in spring, bird migrations, and sweeping lake vistas year-round. The park's tranquil environment and diverse habitats make it a gem for exploration.
10. Black River Pathway
RIVERSIDE WILDLIFE TRAIL
The Black River Pathway meanders along the scenic Black River, providing hikers with peaceful forest walks, gentle river views, and regular wildlife sightings. The trail, known for its gentle grades and quiet surroundings, is ideal for families and casual walkers. With easy access points and interpretive signs, visitors can learn about local ecology as they explore.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS IN STATE
Best Michigan Hiking describes the most renowned trails statewide, from rugged Upper Peninsula treks to scenic Lower Peninsula routes. Michigan's premier hikes showcase old-growth forests, thundering waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks across diverse environments. These destinations attract outdoor lovers eager to experience the state's natural beauty at its finest.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SCENIC BEACHES & COASTS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking celebrates the state's extensive waterfront trails, leading adventurers along Great Lakes beaches, sand dunes, and bluffs. Hikers experience the sights and sounds of rolling surf, sweeping lake views, and diverse coastal wildlife. These trails are perfect for summer outings and for those who love hiking beside pristine waters.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems refers to lesser-known trails offering solitude, quiet forests, and excellent wildlife observation across the state. These secluded paths are ideal for those seeking peaceful hikes away from crowds, where encounters with deer, fox, and songbirds are common. The experience often feels intimate and immersive, perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking highlights the best trails to witness the state's breathtaking fall foliage in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Popular in state and national forests, these routes offer crisp air, leaf-carpeted paths, and scenic lookouts. Hikers flock to these areas each October for the quintessential Midwest autumn experience.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest encompasses over 900,000 acres of rolling hills, old-growth forest, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula. Hikers encounter waterfalls, remote lakes, and abundant wildlife while exploring its extensive network of marked paths. The forest offers something for every experience level, from short walks to challenging backcountry treks.