Manistee MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Manistee, Michigan.
1. Arcadia Dunes
SAND DUNES AND VIEWS
Arcadia Dunes is a scenic haven for hikers, offering miles of well-marked trails that wind through coastal dunes, hardwood forests, and wildflower meadows. The highlight for many is the breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Michigan from Old Baldy, a towering dune accessible by trail. This diverse natural area provides a rich hiking experience for both casual walkers and avid outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Magoon Creek Nature Area
FOREST AND WATERFRONT WALKS
Magoon Creek Nature Area offers tranquil hiking through lush woodland and along Lake Michigan's shoreline. The trail loops through diverse habitats, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking by the water. Its peaceful setting makes it a favorite for families and those seeking a leisurely nature escape.
3. Lake Michigan Recreation Area
LAKESIDE HIKING ESCAPE
Lake Michigan Recreation Area boasts sandy beaches, forested trails, and impressive views of the lake's vast expanse. Several hiking paths traverse the area, offering access to both the lakeshore and inland wooded terrain. Visitors can combine hiking with swimming or picnicking for a full day of outdoor adventure.
4. Manistee River Trail
RIVERFRONT ADVENTURE PATH
Manistee River Trail is a renowned 8.8-mile route hugging the east bank of the Manistee River, passing through rolling hills and wetlands. Highlights include a picturesque waterfall, a large wooden suspension bridge, and multiple scenic overlooks. The trail can be combined with the North Country Trail for a popular 23-mile backpacking loop.
5. Big-M Recreation Area
EXTENSIVE MULTI-USE TRAILS
Big-M Recreation Area is a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports, featuring over 40 miles of interconnected trails. The area offers routes through dense forests and rolling terrain, making it suitable for all skill levels. Hikers enjoy a sense of remoteness amidst towering trees and peaceful meadows.
6. North Country National Scenic Trail
EPIC TRAIL SEGMENTS
The North Country National Scenic Trail passes through Manistee County, offering long-distance hiking opportunities across varied landscapes. Locals and visitors alike enjoy sections that traverse rivers, forests, and ridge lines with frequent wildlife sightings. Well-maintained and marked, these segments connect seamlessly with other local trail systems.
7. Old Baldy Trail
DUNE SUMMIT VIEWS
Old Baldy Trail is a favorite for hikers seeking dramatic dune landscapes and sweeping views of Lake Michigan. The moderate ascent culminates atop Old Baldy, where hikers are rewarded with unforgettable sunsets and a unique vantage point. The surrounding Arcadia Dunes habitat is rich in both flora and fauna, attracting nature lovers.
8. Orchard Beach State Park
CLIFFTOP AND SHORELINE TRAILS
Orchard Beach State Park features hiking paths along majestic bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, as well as access to sandy beaches below. The park's wooded areas and open spaces create a perfect blend for nature walks and birdwatching. Its proximity to Manistee makes it an accessible and popular destination for outdoor recreation.
9. Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary
BIRDING AND BLUFF TRAILS
Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem for hikers who appreciate birdwatching and peaceful bluffside walks. Trails meander through a variety of tree species, providing habitat for migratory birds and native wildlife. Spring and fall migrations are especially rewarding for visitors interested in spotting rare species.
10. Marzinski Trail
FORESTED HORSE AND HIKING PATH
Marzinski Trail is a multi-use path winding through mature forests and gently rolling hills, suitable for both hiking and horseback riding. Its tranquil setting makes it ideal for a quiet day outdoors, with opportunities to spot deer and woodland birds. Well-marked intersections help hikers explore the broader network of trails in the area.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP-RATED STATE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the state's most celebrated trails, renowned for their natural beauty and diverse scenery. From the dramatic cliffs of the Upper Peninsula to the winding paths along inland lakes and rivers, Michigan offers memorable experiences for hikers of all skill levels. Trails are often well maintained and offer a combination of challenging treks and leisurely strolls.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL PATHS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights scenic trails that trace the edges of the state's Great Lakes, featuring sand dunes, dramatic bluffs, and hidden coves. Hikers can enjoy spectacular sunsets, cooling breezes, and glimpses of wildlife native to coastal habitats. Many shoreline trails provide direct access to beaches, making them ideal for summer adventures.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE ESCAPES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails ideal for those seeking seclusion and opportunities to observe wildlife undisturbed. These off-the-beaten-path locales bring hikers through quiet forests, wetland preserves, and remote dunes where birds and mammals thrive. Perfect for quiet reflection and immersion in Michigan's natural world, they invite exploration without crowds.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE PARADISE
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases trails that become vibrant with color during the fall foliage season. From hardwood forests ablaze in reds and golds to scenic overlooks framed by autumn leaves, these trails are a photographer's dream. Peak season varies by region, but all offer crisp air and breathtaking vistas for fall hikers.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS TRAIL ADVENTURES
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula is renowned for its extensive hiking opportunities through dense forests, along rushing rivers, and past numerous waterfalls. Trails range from short, family-friendly walks to challenging backcountry routes, all surrounded by pristine wilderness. This forest is a favorite for both dedicated hikers and casual explorers seeking natural beauty and solitude.