Hersey MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Hersey, Michigan.
1. Manistee River Trail
SCENIC RIVER TREK
The Manistee River Trail treats visitors to miles of riverside hiking through tranquil forests and open bluffs overlooking the Manistee River. This 12-mile trail is well-known for its scenic beauty, with frequent opportunities for wildlife spotting and breathtaking river views. Hikers can expect moderate terrain and access to backcountry camping along the trail.
2. Leelanau Trail
LONG DISTANCE PATHWAY
The Leelanau Trail offers a 17.5-mile paved route spanning from Traverse City to Suttons Bay, perfect for hiking and biking. This scenic trail passes through picturesque farmland, forests, and vineyards, providing a peaceful experience for nature lovers. Along the way, hikers enjoy multiple access points and charming towns in Michigan's scenic northwest.
3. Forestview Natural Area Trail
EASY FOREST LOOP
The Forestview Natural Area Trail is a short, 0.9-mile loop that winds through a quiet woodland near Cadillac. This gentle path is ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely stroll in nature. Interpretive signs and seasonal wildflowers add extra enjoyment to this accessible trail.
4. Old Baldy Trails
SAND DUNE ADVENTURE
Old Baldy Trails lead hikers through forest and sandy dune environments, culminating at a high overlook called Old Baldy. This 3.4-mile trail system is located near Ludington and features moderate climbs, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of Hamlin Lake and the surrounding countryside. The mix of dune, pine, and hardwood environments make this a favorite for local hikers.
5. Blue Lake Township Trails
FOREST AND LAKE VIEWS
Blue Lake Township Trails offer 2.3 miles of varied hiking through woods and near tranquil Blue Lake. With moderate elevation gain, hikers can enjoy peaceful surroundings and the serenity of a less-traveled natural area. These trails present a perfect escape into the heart of Michigan's forested countryside.
6. Advanced Loop
CHALLENGING FOREST ROUTE
The Advanced Loop near Cadillac is a 4.2-mile trail designed for hikers seeking a workout in dense northern Michigan woods. Its rolling terrain, moderate climbs, and natural beauty attract both experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The loop is popular for its quiet setting and opportunities for bird watching.
7. Catamount Trail
RIDGE AND WOODS PATH
The Catamount Trail is a 3.6-mile route near Reed City, known for its peaceful path through mixed hardwood forests. Rolling hills and gentle slopes make for an invigorating hike, while lookout points offer views of the surrounding countryside. This less-crowded trail is perfect for those seeking solitude and immersion in nature.
8. Ottawa Sands Loop
SAND DUNES AND WETLANDS
Ottawa Sands Loop provides a scenic 3-mile hike through dynamic sand dunes, coastal forests, and around a tranquil inland lake. Located in Ferrysburg, the trail offers diverse habitats perfect for birding, photography, and relaxed walking. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the protected dune ecosystem.
9. North Ottawa Dunes Loop
COASTAL DUNE ESCAPE
North Ottawa Dunes Loop features winding paths through 593 acres of towering dunes and thick forest. Just minutes from the Lake Michigan shoreline in Spring Lake, the network of trails provides excellent hiking year-round. Trail-goers experience frequent elevation changes and serene glimpses of rare dune habitats.
10. Pere Marquette State Trail
MULTI-USE RAIL TRAIL
Pere Marquette State Trail is a multi-use, 55-mile pathway stretching from Baldwin through Reed City to Clare, using a paved former rail corridor. This trail offers a flat, accessible route for hikers, bikers, and snowmobilers, traversing forests, rivers, and pastoral landscapes. Reed City is a central hub, making it a popular starting or stopping point for outdoor adventures.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
ICONIC STATE EXPERIENCE
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the state's most celebrated hiking destinations, from forested state parks to rugged Great Lakes shorelines. Enthusiasts can explore a range of environments, including waterfalls, high bluffs, and tranquil woodlands. With thousands of miles of trails, Michigan offers something for every hiker, regardless of skill level.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features iconic trails along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, where walkers enjoy sandy beaches, imposing dunes, and picturesque waterfront bluffs. These trails are perfect for those who love the combination of water views and breezy landscapes. Popular routes include Sleeping Bear Dunes, Pictured Rocks, and multiple state parks offering memorable lakeshore experiences.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails providing peaceful escapes, abundant wildlife, and unique natural features. These quieter paths traverse remote forests, wetlands, and glacial landscapes, making them ideal for solitude and birdwatching. Adventurers who seek out these hidden treasures are rewarded with undisturbed beauty and plenty of opportunities for nature observation.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE SPECTACULAR
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates trails renowned for their breathtaking displays of fall color, where vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves blanket the forests. Classic hikes in state and national forests offer panoramic views of the changing canopy and crisp autumn air. Each season, visitors flock to these routes for unforgettable leaf-peeping and vibrant photography.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS HIKING PARADISE
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers some of the best wilderness hiking in the Midwest, with more than 500 miles of trails. Visitors explore dense forests, sparkling lakes, dramatic waterfalls, and spectacular ridgelines, all home to abundant wildlife. The forest's remote setting promises solitude and breathtaking natural experiences for those willing to venture deeper into Michigan's wild north.