Lowell MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Lowell, Michigan.
1. Lowell Area Trailway
SCENIC COMMUNITY PATH
The Lowell Area Trailway is a paved, non-motorized path that winds through the heart of Lowell, Michigan, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and schools. Hikers can enjoy 3.2 miles of wide, accessible trails suitable for all ages and abilities, with easy access points and plenty of green space. The trail system is perfect for leisurely walks, family outings, and serves as a local hub for outdoor adventure.
2. Fred Meijer Grand River Valley Rail Trail
EXPANSIVE RAIL TRAIL
The Fred Meijer Grand River Valley Rail Trail starts on Lowell's east side and stretches 62 miles towards Saranac and Ionia, offering hikers a long, scenic journey through forests, meadows, and alongside the Grand River. The trail is popular for its flat, well-maintained surface and peaceful rural landscapes. It's an excellent choice for both casual walkers and those seeking a longer, more immersive hiking experience.
3. Wege/Wittenbach Nature Center Trails
NATURE CENTER EXPLORATION
The Wege/Wittenbach Nature Center features 3.7 miles of gentle hiking trails that loop through varied habitats including woodlands, ponds, and streams. These trails offer educational stops and a rustic cabin, providing a peaceful setting for nature appreciation and environmental education. The center is open year-round, making it a favorite destination for families and hikers interested in learning about the local ecosystem.
4. North Country Trail (Lowell Segment)
NATIONAL SCENIC ROUTE
The North Country Trail passes directly through Lowell, giving residents access to a section of America's longest National Scenic Trail. This segment features well-marked paths through woodlands, fields, and along the Flat River, offering both short and extended hiking opportunities. With the National Headquarters based in town, Lowell is an official Trail Town and a great gateway for exploring this iconic trail.
5. Cooper Woodland Trail
SECLUDED FOREST LOOP
The Cooper Woodland Trail is a 1-mile, relatively flat wooded path perfect for a quiet walk amidst local wildlife. Connected to the LARA Trail system, it offers hikers a peaceful escape within Lowell's city limits. This lesser-known trail is ideal for nature observation and solitude close to home.
6. Fred Meijer Flat River Valley Rail Trail
RIVER VALLEY VIEWS
The Fred Meijer Flat River Valley Rail Trail offers long stretches of scenic hiking along the Flat River, connecting Lowell with Belding and beyond. Its largely flat, crushed limestone surface makes it accessible to hikers of all levels. Travelers can expect natural vistas, wildlife spotting, and peaceful riverside walking.
7. Saranac Linear Trail
TRANQUIL SMALL-TOWN WALK
The Saranac Linear Trail is a short, easy pathway nestled in the nearby village of Saranac, just east of Lowell. It follows the Grand River and provides a quiet setting for those looking to enjoy riverside scenery and birdwatching. The trail is perfect for casual walks and is a quick drive from Lowell, adding variety for local hikers.
8. Seidman Park Trails
WOODLAND PARK LOOPS
Seidman Park, located south of Lowell in Ada, offers several miles of interconnected hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and meadows. The park features well-maintained paths, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife, making it popular for nature lovers and families alike. With multiple loop options, hikers can tailor their experience to suit their desired distance and terrain.
9. Cannonsburg State Game Area
RUGGED WILDLIFE AREA
The Cannonsburg State Game Area, located west of Lowell near Belmont, offers extensive unpaved trails perfect for those seeking rugged terrain and natural beauty. Hikers can explore oak forests, wetlands, and open fields while enjoying opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife. The area's diverse habitats and challenging trails attract both casual hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Fallasburg Park Trails
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE PARK
Fallasburg Park, north of downtown Lowell, is known for its historic covered bridge and scenic hiking trails along the Flat River. The park's wooded paths offer a blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational amenities including picnic areas and playgrounds. It's an inviting destination for families and anyone looking to combine hiking with a day at the park.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's premier hiking destinations, ranging from the famous Porcupine Mountains in the Upper Peninsula to the extensive dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Hikers can explore dense forests, scenic lakeshores, and towering bluffs across Michigan's diverse landscapes. These top trails promise unforgettable adventures for day hikers and backpackers alike.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking is renowned for its dramatic coastal paths along the shores of the Great Lakes, offering sweeping lake views, sandy beaches, and unique dune ecosystems. Notable areas like Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore attract hikers with their pristine waters, wild beaches, and scenic overlooks. These trails are perfect for anyone seeking a blend of rugged nature and water vistas.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED TRAILS & WILDLIFE
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems showcases lesser-known trails and preserves ideal for those seeking quiet solitude and abundant wildlife encounters. These off-the-beaten-path locations lie away from major tourist spots, offering peaceful hikes through forests, wetlands, and remote natural areas. They are perfect for birdwatching, nature photography, and anyone looking for a tranquil outdoor experience.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the state's most spectacular trails for enjoying vibrant fall colors, from hardwood forests to scenic overlooks. Popular destinations include the rolling hills of the Upper Peninsula and famous routes in state parks and national forests. These trails offer hikers unforgettable terrain blanketed in rich hues of red, orange, and gold each autumn.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula near Ironwood, boasts more than 500 miles of hiking trails traversing remote woodlands, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. The forest offers hikers a true wilderness experience, with trails ranging from short nature walks to multi-day backpacking routes. Ottawa's unspoiled landscapes and rich biodiversity make it a premier destination for adventurers.