Jackson MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Jackson, Michigan.
1. Falling Waters Trail
SCENIC RAIL-TRAIL EXPERIENCE
Falling Waters Trail connects the City of Jackson to the Village of Concord along a 10.5-mile paved path built on a former railroad corridor. The trail winds through woodlands, wetlands, and the picturesque Lime Lake, offering abundant opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy Michigan's seasonal beauty. Its wide, level surface makes it ideal for walking, running, and cycling year-round.
2. Dahlem Environmental Education Center
NATURE TRAILS & WILDLIFE
The Dahlem Environmental Education Center features over 5 miles of trails through diverse habitats including oak-hickory woods, grasslands, and wetlands. Visitors can explore themed paths like the Butterfly Trail and the accessible Nature for All Trail, perfect for families and those with mobility needs. This serene preserve offers peaceful hiking and plentiful opportunities to see birds, wildflowers, and pollinators.
3. Ella Sharp Park Trail
URBAN PARK ADVENTURE
Ella Sharp Park Trail invites hikers to experience a mix of open lawns, woodlands, and riverside scenery within Jackson's largest city park. The trail system meanders past gardens, playgrounds, and a historic museum campus, making it a great spot for families and casual walkers. With well-marked paths and plenty of shade, it's a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors close to town.
4. MLK Equality Trail
URBAN GREENWAY WALKING
The MLK Equality Trail provides a paved urban greenway stretching through the heart of Jackson. Popular for both walking and cycling, this accessible path offers a convenient way to explore city neighborhoods and connect to various parks. The trail is lined with mature trees and public art installations, adding interest to every visit.
5. PAKA Trail
SHORT MULTI-USE PATHWAY
PAKA Trail offers a brief but pleasant route through quiet suburban neighborhoods in Jackson. Ideal for quick strolls or neighborhood bike rides, the well-maintained path features gentle grades and easy access from local streets. It's a popular choice for residents seeking a low-key, scenic outing close to home.
6. Iron Belle Trail (Jackson Section)
STATEWIDE TRAIL CONNECTION
The Iron Belle Trail is Michigan's ambitious hiking and biking corridor, with the Jackson section providing a scenic stretch for local hikers. Winding through city parks and natural areas before connecting to larger statewide routes, it's a gateway to exploring Michigan on foot. Hikers enjoy a variety of landscapes, from riverside paths to shaded woodlands, along this well-traveled network.
7. Great Lake-to-Lake Trail (Jackson Segment)
CROSS-STATE HIKING ROUTE
The Great Lake-to-Lake Trail passes through Jackson, forming part of a route that spans from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. In the Jackson area, hikers can travel along converted rail corridors and paved paths, experiencing a variety of local ecosystems. Whether starting a long-distance adventure or enjoying a shorter segment, this trail offers flexibility for all skill levels.
8. Lime Lake Segment
LAKESIDE WILDLIFE VIEWING
The Lime Lake Segment, part of the Falling Waters Trail, is a favorite destination for lakeside hiking and wildlife watching. Hikers can pause at Lime Lake's shores to see birds, turtles, and lush wetland vegetation. This tranquil section provides a peaceful atmosphere and changing views in every season.
9. Concord Trailhead (Falling Waters Trail)
WESTERN TRAIL ENTRANCE
Concord Trailhead marks the western gateway to the Falling Waters Trail, inviting hikers to explore wetlands, forests, and the Kalamazoo River bridge. The starting point offers ample parking and a scenic transition from village life to rural landscapes. Adventure seekers and nature lovers alike enjoy this easy-access point for a day on the trail.
10. Jackson Intercity Trail
URBAN TRAIL CONNECTOR
Jackson Intercity Trail weaves through city neighborhoods, connecting key green spaces and downtown areas. Well-suited for family outings and fitness enthusiasts, it offers a safe, paved route for walking, jogging, or cycling. Trail users appreciate the accessible design and close proximity to local amenities.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP MICHIGAN TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the most iconic and diverse hiking destinations found throughout the state, from dense forests and rolling hills to majestic dunes along the Great Lakes. Hikers can discover nationally recognized trails, rugged wilderness areas, and rich cultural landscapes that showcase Michigan's natural beauty. From challenging backpacking routes to family-friendly loops, these trails offer something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
GREAT LAKES BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features renowned beach and coastal paths along the shores of the Great Lakes, with miles of sand dunes, bluffs, and waterfront views. These trails invite hikers to enjoy sunrises and sunsets over the water, explore unique dune ecosystems, and swim in crystal-clear lakes. Both state parks and national lakeshores offer unforgettable experiences for those seeking the best of Michigan's beach hiking.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDERNESS HIKING
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems celebrates trails that lead adventurers off the beaten path to quiet forests, remote lakes, and abundant wildlife habitats. These lesser-known routes provide solitude, opportunities for birdwatching, and a closer connection with nature away from the crowds. Ideal for those seeking peaceful hikes and memorable wildlife encounters, these hidden gems represent the state's wildest corners.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAIL VIEWS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the best destinations to witness the state's renowned fall foliage in all its glory. Trails wind through vibrant forests of maple, oak, and aspen, offering panoramic views of red, gold, and orange leaves that blanket the landscape. Autumn hikes in Michigan are a feast for the senses, making this season a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST NORTHWOODS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails winding through the rugged beauty of Michigan's western Upper Peninsula. Hikers can trek through dense hardwood forests, past waterfalls, lakes, and wild rivers, encountering diverse wildlife along the way. With both short interpretive trails and challenging backcountry routes, Ottawa National Forest is a premier destination for nature lovers and wilderness explorers.