Hillsdale MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Hillsdale, Michigan.
1. Kiwanis Baw Beese Trail
SCENIC LAKEFRONT PATH
The Kiwanis Baw Beese Trail in Hillsdale weaves along the shoreline of Baw Beese Lake, offering hikers and cyclists beautiful waterfront views and easy access to parks and picnic areas. The trail's mostly flat terrain makes it an accessible option for beginners and families looking for a leisurely outdoor experience. Wildlife sightings and tranquil scenery make this a popular local destination year-round.
2. Litchfield Nature Trail - Fireman's Park
WOODLAND WILDLIFE WALK
The Litchfield Nature Trail at Fireman's Park offers a peaceful escape through mature woods and native plant habitats in Litchfield. Short and manageable, this trail provides opportunities for birdwatching, nature photography, and quiet moments along the way. The route is well-marked and perfect for those seeking a quick hike without leaving town.
3. Bundy Hill and Bundy Hill Off Road Park Loop
FORESTED RIDGE LOOP
Bundy Hill's hiking loop near Jerome features forested slopes and gentle ridges, providing a moderately challenging trek. The trail traverses through a mix of hardwoods and evergreens, and adventurous visitors can explore adjacent off-road park areas for added excitement. Local hikers appreciate the changing scenery throughout the seasons.
4. Bluffs Nature Trail
RIVERSIDE BLUFF VIEWS
Bluffs Nature Trail, located in Jackson, guides walkers along elevated terrain overlooking the river and surrounding woodlands. This short loop rewards visitors with panoramic vistas and glimpses of local flora and fauna. Its proximity to the city makes it ideal for a quick yet refreshing outing.
5. Martin Luther King Equality Trail
URBAN MEETS NATURE
The Martin Luther King Equality Trail in Jackson blends urban convenience with stretches of natural scenery along the Kalamazoo rivers. Designed for both walkers and cyclists, this paved path provides a comfortable route for commuting or recreation. City landmarks and tree-lined passages make it a vibrant option close to downtown.
6. North Country Trail - Ohio Section
CROSS-STATE TREKKING
The North Country Trail's Ohio segment passes through Hillsdale County, connecting hikers to one of the country's longest continuous trails. This section traverses farmland, wetlands, and woodlands, offering a varied landscape and a true long-distance hiking experience. Trailheads in the area provide access for both short and extended adventures.
7. Delta East/West Trail
MEADOWS AND FORESTS
Delta East/West Trail in Jackson invites hikers through restored meadows and hardwood forests, perfect for observing wildflowers and native songbirds. Smooth paths and gentle grades appeal to both beginners and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. Benches and learning stations along the way encourage mindful exploration.
8. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
YEAR-ROUND WILDERNESS
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail near Jackson offers multi-season enjoyment, from hiking in summer to cross-country skiing in winter. The 5-mile loop traverses quiet forests, rolling hills, and occasional wetlands. Frequent wildlife sightings and peaceful surroundings make it a local favorite for nature lovers.
9. Beech Tree Loop
SHADED FOREST WALK
The Beech Tree Loop in Jackson showcases classic Michigan beech and maple woods on a short and easy loop. Its dense canopy provides shade and a serene atmosphere, especially welcome during hot summer months. The trail's manageable distance makes it popular for family outings and casual strolls.
10. Lake Number Two Overlook Scenic Trail
HILLSIDE LAKE VIEWS
Lake Number Two Overlook Scenic Trail in Hillsdale County ascends gently to a vantage point over tranquil waters and forested hills. Hikers are rewarded with expansive lake vistas and peaceful rest spots along the way. The trail is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset when the view is especially striking.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATEWIDE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking offers access to some of the most beloved trails in the state, spanning forests, dunes, and lakeshores. From rugged wilderness in the Upper Peninsula to accessible paths in state parks, Michigan boasts options for every experience level. Outdoor enthusiasts can expect diverse scenery, challenging routes, and plentiful wildlife along these celebrated trails.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL AND BEACH WALKS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights breathtaking routes along the state's Great Lakes shores, from sandy beaches to towering dunes. Hikers can enjoy freshwater vistas, lighthouses, and unique flora while exploring these coastal gems. Many shoreline trails are family-friendly and offer opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and birdwatching.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE ESCAPES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails ideal for solitude, wildlife observation, and off-the-beaten-path discovery. These quiet routes wind through undisturbed forests, remote wetlands, and tranquil lakesides, often rewarding hikers with encounters with deer, birds, and other native animals. Intimate and peaceful, these hikes are perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with Michigan's wild landscapes.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
BEST FOR FALL COLOR
Michigan Autumn Hiking offers travelers the chance to witness vibrant fall foliage along scenic trails statewide. From hardwood forests blazing in reds and golds to overlooks with sweeping views of color-drenched hills, these routes are a must-see in October and November. Hikers often time their visits for peak color, making for memorable photos and crisp, refreshing walks.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
Ottawa National Forest in the western Upper Peninsula features over 500 miles of trails through pristine forests, rivers, and cascading waterfalls. Hikers can choose from short interpretive loops to challenging backcountry treks, with abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing and solitude. The forest is especially renowned for its lush summer greenery and spectacular autumn color displays.