Lake Orion MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Lake Orion, Michigan.
1. Bald Mountain State Recreation Area – Red Trail Loop
SCENIC WOODLAND ADVENTURE
Bald Mountain State Recreation Area – Red Trail Loop offers a diverse hiking experience through rolling hills and dense woodlands. Trail users will find varied terrain with lake views and opportunities to spot local wildlife along the well-maintained path. This loop is a favorite for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers seeking a scenic escape close to Lake Orion.
2. Heart Lake – Orange Trails Loop
LAKESIDE FOREST LOOP
Heart Lake – Orange Trails Loop provides hikers with tranquil routes winding around pristine Heart Lake amid oak and maple forests. This trail is suitable for all skill levels, offering gentle elevation changes and picturesque scenery year-round. The area is known for birdwatching and the serenity provided by its peaceful woodlands.
3. Orion Oaks County Park Trails
SPRAWLING NATURAL HAVEN
Orion Oaks County Park encompasses 916 acres and features about 10 miles of interconnected hiking and biking trails. The park is also home to Lake Sixteen, where visitors can enjoy fishing and wildlife spotting, and the area is wheelchair accessible. Its expansive trail network offers a mixture of open meadows, forests, and wetland exploration.
4. Polly Ann Trail
HISTORIC RAIL-TRAIL TREK
The Polly Ann Trail stretches north from Orion Township, following a former railroad corridor through several small towns and rural landscapes. This non-motorized greenway is accessible year-round and is suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Its crushed stone and asphalt surfaces provide a comfortable trek for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
5. Black Creek Nature Trail
SERENE CREEKSIDE WALK
Black Creek Nature Trail is a short yet picturesque 1.7-mile trail that runs alongside the gentle waters of Black Creek. The route is popular with families and those seeking a quiet walk surrounded by native plants and occasional wildlife. Interpretive signage along the trail enhances the experience with information on local ecology.
6. Paint Creek Trail
RENOWNED MULTI-USE PATHWAY
The Paint Creek Trail begins near Lake Orion and extends south for nearly 9 miles, meandering through woods, wetlands, and meadows. As Michigan's first non-motorized rail-trail, it offers a smooth and scenic route beloved by hikers, cyclists, and runners alike. The trail provides excellent birdwatching and peaceful natural vistas all year.
7. Applewood Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NATURE PATH
Applewood Trail is a gentle 1.8-mile path that winds through quiet neighborhoods and pockets of greenery within Lake Orion. It's ideal for families and casual walkers who appreciate a leisurely route with fresh air and minimal traffic. The trail's proximity to local parks makes it a convenient option for a quick outing.
8. Bicentennial Park Pathway
URBAN GREENWAY WALK
Bicentennial Park Pathway offers 2.8 miles of paved and natural-surface trails that wind through community green spaces and recreational areas. Its flat terrain and amenities make it popular among both walkers and joggers. The pathway is lined with shade trees, benches, and connects seamlessly to local parks.
9. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
CHALLENGING FOREST LOOP
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail offers 5.1 miles of rugged paths through dense forest, providing an elevated challenge for experienced hikers and cross-country skiers. The trail is noted for its rolling hills and peaceful, remote setting. Each season reveals a different aspect of the landscape, from wildflower blooms to snowy vistas.
10. Forestview Natural Area Trail
WOODLAND ESCAPE ROUTE
Forestview Natural Area Trail is a short, 0.9-mile excursion through mature woodlands near Lake Orion. It's a peaceful spot for those seeking solitude and a quick connection with nature. The well-marked path is ideal for a meditative walk or a brief retreat from daily routines.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most renowned trails across the state, from dramatic bluffs to ancient forests and sparkling lakeshores. Hikers can experience everything from rocky climbs to peaceful woodland strolls, each offering a unique perspective on Michigan's natural beauty. Whether exploring national parks or state recreation areas, Michigan boasts an adventure for every level of hiker.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SCENIC BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's most beautiful beach and dune trails, from the sandy stretches of Lake Michigan to the rugged cliffs of the Upper Peninsula. Walkers can wander through dramatic dune landscapes, along pristine freshwater beaches, and through lush coastal forests. These coastal routes provide some of the most picturesque hiking experiences in the Midwest.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDERNESS TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore lesser-known trails rich in wildlife, tranquil forests, and remote lakes. These spots offer the best opportunities for solitude, nature photography, and quiet observation of birds and animals. Secluded routes throughout the state give hikers a true sense of discovery and peaceful immersion in nature.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ESCAPES
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the state's most stunning routes for iconic fall foliage viewing, from northern hardwood forests to lakefront bluffs. Trails wind through vibrant canopies of red, orange, and gold, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. The crisp autumn air and brilliant colors make these hikes a seasonal highlight for visitors and locals alike.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST NORTHWOODS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest invites hikers to over 196,000 acres of wilderness in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, with trails traversing old-growth forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. This expansive forest offers routes for every ability, from short interpretive paths to challenging backcountry treks. The area is celebrated for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation.