LeRoy MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near LeRoy, Michigan.
1. White Pine Trail State Park
LONG DISTANCE PATHWAY
White Pine Trail State Park offers over 90 miles of multi-use trail stretching from Grand Rapids to Cadillac, passing directly through LeRoy. Hikers can enjoy a mostly flat, paved path surrounded by forest, fields, and occasional glimpses of lakes and wildlife. The trail is suitable for all levels and is popular for walking, biking, and nature viewing.
2. Rose Lake County Park
LAKE AND FOREST TRAILS
Rose Lake County Park in LeRoy features scenic hiking opportunities along wooded paths and the shoreline of Rose Lake. The park provides access to both easy and moderately challenging trails, with beautiful views of water, wetlands, and abundant birdlife. It's a peaceful place to hike, especially for those who enjoy a combination of woods and water.
3. Sunrise Lake State Forest Campground
RUSTIC FOREST HIKING
Sunrise Lake State Forest Campground offers rustic wooded trails ideal for exploring the natural landscape near LeRoy. Hikers can wander through quiet forests, spot wildlife, and access the peaceful lakeshore. The area is perfect for those seeking a back-to-nature hiking experience in a tranquil setting.
4. Buttles Road Pathway
LOCAL WOODS WALK
Buttles Road Pathway is a community hiking trail offering a pleasant stroll through the woodlands surrounding LeRoy. The path is suitable for families and anyone looking for a short, relaxing outdoor walk. It's a lesser-known spot, making it ideal for those who prefer quieter hikes close to town.
5. Buffalo Ridge Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATH
The Buffalo Ridge Trail, accessible in nearby Cadillac, offers a paved and mostly flat surface suitable for hiking, biking, and walking. Surrounded by forest and passing small farms and lakes, it provides a varied landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is known for its friendly community and beautiful natural views.
6. Pere Marquette State Trail
EXTENSIVE FOREST TRAIL
Pere Marquette State Trail stretches over 55 miles through woods, wetlands, and rural scenery, with a trailhead near LeRoy. Hikers enjoy peaceful surroundings and the chance to spot turtles, birds, and wildflowers along the journey. This trail is perfect for those seeking a lengthy trek through Michigan's heartland.
7. Big M Trail
CHALLENGING FOREST LOOPS
Big M Trail, located west of LeRoy in Manistee County, is a renowned network of hiking loops through dense hardwood forests and rolling hills. The area features trails for various skill levels and is popular for both hiking and mountain biking. Hikers appreciate the seclusion and diverse terrain offered by this extensive trail system.
8. Arcadia Marsh Trail
WETLAND WILDLIFE WALK
Arcadia Marsh Trail provides a unique boardwalk experience through a rare Great Lakes coastal wetland near the town of Arcadia. The short trail is excellent for birdwatching and enjoying views of marshlands teeming with wildlife. Interpretive signs along the path make it educational for hikers of all ages.
9. Betsie Valley Trail
RIVER AND LAKE VIEWS
Betsie Valley Trail stretches from Frankfort to Thompsonville, offering a 22-mile path along the Betsie River and Crystal Lake. The trail is mostly flat and crushed stone, perfect for casual hikes with views of water, woodlands, and wildflowers. It's a scenic option for those wanting to experience Michigan's natural beauty near the shoreline.
10. Tustin Trailhead (White Pine Trail)
TRAIL ACCESS POINT
The Tustin Trailhead on the White Pine Trail provides easy access to the region's premier multi-use pathway. Hikers can head north toward Cadillac or south toward LeRoy, experiencing both forest and farmland as they go. This trailhead is a convenient starting point for both short walks and longer treks.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
ICONIC STATE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's most iconic trails, from the lakeshore dunes at Sleeping Bear to the rugged Porcupine Mountains and the North Country National Scenic Trail. These trails offer a variety of experiences, whether hikers seek dramatic overlooks, ancient forests, or quiet lakeside paths. Michigan's diverse landscapes ensure unforgettable hiking adventures for all skill levels.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL PATHS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features some of the most breathtaking beach and coastal trails along the Great Lakes, such as those at Pictured Rocks and Sleeping Bear Dunes. Hikers can traverse sandy bluffs, forested dunes, and enjoy panoramic vistas of sparkling blue water. These shoreline hikes are perfect for those seeking both natural beauty and refreshing lake breezes.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE HAVENS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems point to trails off the beaten path, where solitude and encounters with wildlife are more likely. These lesser-known spots, such as Nordhouse Dunes or the Jordan Valley Pathway, offer quiet forests, wild rivers, and abundant animal life. They are ideal for hikers who crave peaceful, immersive nature experiences away from busy crowds.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the state's stunning fall color, showcased in places like Hartwick Pines, Porcupine Mountains, and the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Trails wind through dense forests ablaze with red, orange, and yellow, offering hikers unforgettable views and crisp autumn air. These routes are perfect for photographers and leaf-peepers seeking peak fall scenery.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS EXPANSE TRAIL
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers hundreds of miles of hiking through vast wilderness, old-growth forests, and alongside rushing waterfalls. The forest is known for its seclusion, rich wildlife, and beautifully maintained trails that range from easy walks to backcountry adventures. It's a premier destination for hikers seeking immersion in Michigan's northern wilds.