Lincoln MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Lincoln, Michigan.
1. Tiger Trek Trail
BIODIVERSE WOODED MEADOW
Tiger Trek Trail brings hikers through a scenic landscape of Burch groves and summer meadows, offering a peaceful, natural escape just outside downtown Lincoln. Easily accessible from Barlow Road, this gently meandering trail is ideal for both casual walkers and trail runners seeking diversity in plant and bird life. The blend of open meadow and shaded woodland makes the trail enjoyable across multiple seasons.
2. Forestview Natural Area Trail
QUIET FOREST PATHWAY
The Forestview Natural Area Trail lies in Lincoln and features an immersive route through tranquil woodlands and gently rolling terrain. Hikers here can enjoy shaded paths, native wildflowers, and the serenity of a less-traveled area. It's a favorite for those seeking solitude and the ambient sounds of northern Michigan forests.
3. Hoist Lakes Area
LARGE GLACIAL LAKES LOOP
Hoist Lakes Area, near Lincoln, offers more than 19 miles of hiking trails circling picturesque glacial lakes and untouched wetlands. Multiple loop options allow for both short nature walks and extended backcountry experiences. The area is celebrated for its wildlife sightings, remote lakeside campsites, and peaceful, rugged beauty.
4. Frank N. Anderson Nature Trail
ACCESSIBLE NATURE WALK
Frank N. Anderson Nature Trail in Lincoln provides an easy and accessible walk through forested sections and open clearings. Its short, well-kept loop is perfect for families and those new to hiking, with interpretive signage highlighting local flora. Benches and birdwatching spots make it a relaxing destination for a quick outdoor break.
5. Marl Lake Trail System
SCENIC LAKESHORE HIKING
The Marl Lake Trail System, located near South Branch, offers hikers winding shoreline paths with stunning lake views and tranquil forest stretches. Boardwalks traverse marshy areas, providing a safe way to observe wetlands and spot wildlife. The loop is well-loved for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant birdlife.
6. Shingle Mill Pathway Loop
STREAMSIDE FOREST TRAILS
Shingle Mill Pathway Loop in Grayling, MI takes hikers along winding streams and through dense hardwood forests in the heart of northern Michigan. With several loop options, from shorter hikes to longer treks, this deeply wooded route appeals to a range of skill levels. The pathway is especially popular in spring and fall for its wildflowers and fall colors.
7. North Country Trail (NCT): Michigan
NATIONAL SCENIC LONG TRAIL
The North Country Trail (NCT) traverses Michigan from the Ohio border to the Upper Peninsula, offering varied landscapes of forests, rivers, and lakes. Its segment near Lincoln provides hikers with peaceful woods, wildflower-rich meadows, and wildlife observation opportunities. As part of America's longest National Scenic Trail, it delivers a true wilderness adventure.
8. Alpena Bi-Path
URBAN-RURAL CONNECTOR
Alpena Bi-Path is a 14-mile multi-use trail in Alpena, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and scenic areas on the Thunder Bay River. This well-maintained path offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, suitable for both walkers and cyclists. Rest areas and picnic spots make it a favorite for leisurely outings.
9. Alpena to Hillman Trail
RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
The Alpena to Hillman Trail stretches 22 miles along a former railroad corridor, providing a scenic tour from Alpena to Hillman. Hikers traverse forests, wetlands, and farmlands, encountering a mix of wildlife and rural vistas. The flat trail surface makes it accessible for all levels, and the journey offers a unique glimpse into Michigan's natural heartland.
10. Iosco Exploration Trail
FOREST TO LAKE PATHWAY
Iosco Exploration Trail runs through Iosco County and connects hikers with diverse landscapes, including woodlands, rivers, and inland lakes. Well-signed and partially paved sections make the trail family-friendly, with several scenic overlooks along the way. It's a popular trail for those looking to experience the region's ecological variety.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking refers to the variety of outstanding trails across the state, from rugged mountain pathways in the Upper Peninsula to tranquil forest walks in northern Michigan. Hikers can enjoy scenic lakeshores, thick forests, and challenging climbs, all within Michigan's extensive system of parks and natural areas. The state is renowned for offering something for every level of hiker, making it a prime destination for trail enthusiasts.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL AND BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's beautiful beach and coastal trails, where hikers can stroll along sandy shores, tall dunes, and dramatic cliffs. These scenic coastal hikes often provide breathtaking views of the Great Lakes, unique wildlife, and opportunities for swimming or picnicking. Popular beachside parks like Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pictured Rocks offer some of the best hiking experiences along freshwater shores.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDERNESS TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems encompass remote trails and preserves perfect for solitude, wildlife encounters, and quiet reflection. Among these are lesser-known forest paths, nature sanctuaries, and secret lakeside routes that remain uncrowded year-round. These spots are ideal for dedicated hikers seeking an intimate connection with Michigan's natural landscapes.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE EXPERIENCES
Michigan Autumn Hiking features top trails for experiencing vibrant fall colors, as forests transform into tapestries of red, orange, and gold. Notable destinations include hardwood forests in the northern Lower Peninsula and elevated bluff trails overlooking lakes. These hikes are perfect for leaf-peepers and photographers eager to capture the magic of Michigan in autumn.
15. Ottawa National Forest
EXPANSIVE FOREST HIKING
Ottawa National Forest, located near Ironwood, covers nearly one million acres and provides endless opportunities for hiking in rugged Upper Peninsula wilderness. Its extensive trail system takes hikers past waterfalls, old-growth forests, and remote lakes. The forest is a favorite destination for backpackers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a true backcountry adventure in Michigan.