Marlette MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Marlette, Michigan.
1. Marlette Community Park & Pool
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GREEN SPACE
Marlette Community Park & Pool provides a tranquil setting for hikers of all ages, featuring well-maintained walking and hiking trails through 14 acres of picturesque greenery. Visitors can enjoy serene strolls or a more invigorating run while taking advantage of the park's moderate climate and scenic landscapes throughout the year. This beloved local park is perfect for those seeking peaceful, active escapes within the heart of Marlette.
2. Applewood Trail
SCENIC SHORT LOOP
Applewood Trail offers a brief yet delightful 1.8-mile adventure perfect for novice hikers and families in Marlette. The trail meanders through gentle woodlands, providing a relaxing environment to enjoy nature's sights and sounds. It's an excellent destination for a quick escape or a peaceful walk close to town.
3. Bay-Zil Rail Trail
EXPANSIVE RAIL TRAIL
The Bay-Zil Rail Trail is a 7-mile route that allows hikers to experience the scenic transition from rural landscapes to urban settings in Bay City. Well-suited for long walks, cycling, or bird-watching, the trail showcases a blend of natural beauty and local history. Its flat, accessible surface makes it ideal for all skill levels and families.
4. Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail
RIVERFRONT URBAN PATH
Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail stretches 17.8 miles along the Saginaw River, offering beautiful waterfront vistas and easy access to Bay City attractions. This popular route is perfect for those seeking a mix of urban charm and natural tranquility. The paved trail is suitable for walking, running, and biking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park
ANCIENT ROCK ART TRAIL
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park features hiking trails that wind through shady forests and lead to Michigan's largest collection of ancient Native American rock carvings. The serene paths provide opportunities to learn about the region's cultural history while observing wildflowers and wildlife. This unique park offers a peaceful retreat for hikers intrigued by both nature and archaeology.
6. Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area
LAKESIDE FOREST ADVENTURE
Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area boasts miles of scenic trails looping around lakes and through mature hardwood forests in Metamora. Hikers can enjoy lush landscapes in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. The diverse terrain makes this a favorite for both leisurely walks and more rugged exploration.
7. Ortonville Recreation Area
RUGGED WOODLAND ESCAPE
Ortonville Recreation Area offers challenging woodland hikes across rolling hills, wetlands, and dense forests outside Ortonville. The network of multi-use trails provides hikers with immersive experiences in Michigan's wild landscape, with abundant wildlife and diverse plant life. It's an excellent spot for nature lovers seeking a more remote outdoor adventure.
8. Bald Mountain Recreation Area
HILLY TRAIL NETWORK
Bald Mountain Recreation Area is known for its rugged terrain, with several interconnected trails winding through forests, meadows, and around pristine lakes near Lake Orion. The park invites hikers of all skill levels, whether looking for a brief stroll or an extended trek. Its rolling hills and varied ecosystems offer stunning scenery in every season.
9. Macomb Orchard Trail
PEACEFUL RURAL PATHWAY
Macomb Orchard Trail weaves through farmlands and small communities, creating a peaceful 23.5-mile corridor for hikers, cyclists, and families in Richmond. The gently graded route is perfect for long-distance walks and spotting wildlife along the way. Its well-maintained surface and accessible amenities make it a popular destination year-round.
10. Black Creek Nature Trail
CREEKSIDE NATURE WALK
Black Creek Nature Trail offers a scenic escape along the peaceful banks of Black Creek in Flint, where hikers can enjoy both wooded and open landscapes. The gentle path is ideal for families and birdwatchers, with interpretive signs highlighting local ecology. Mature trees provide shade and serenity for those seeking a quiet outdoor experience.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS IN STATE
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses an array of renowned trails stretching from the Upper Peninsula to the southern border, capturing the state's diverse natural beauty. Hikers can explore dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, dramatic dunes, and peaceful wetlands across Michigan's many parks and recreation areas. These top-rated trails offer something for everyone, from challenging summit climbs to gentle lakeside strolls.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL & BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features some of the country's most spectacular beach and coastal walking routes along the shores of the Great Lakes. These trails take hikers over towering sand dunes, through peaceful beach forests, and past sweeping lake vistas, offering endless opportunities for sunrise and sunset walks. A trek along Michigan's shoreline promises stunning scenic diversity and cooling breezes, making it a bucket-list destination for beach lovers.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights lesser-known trails where seclusion and wildlife abound, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet in nature. These hidden paths wind through tranquil forests, remote wetlands, and wildflower meadows, often providing excellent opportunities for spotting deer, birds, and smaller creatures. Hikers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in pure Michigan wilderness will treasure these secret spots.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE HOTSPOTS
Michigan Autumn Hiking invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience breathtaking displays of fall color along the state's forested trails. Popular routes transform into vibrant corridors of red, orange, and yellow, offering unforgettable photo opportunities and crisp, cool air. From the Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula, autumn hikers are treated to spectacular scenery and seasonal charm at every turn.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST NORTHWOODS WILDERNESS
Ottawa National Forest covers nearly one million acres in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, providing endless opportunities for hiking adventures near Ironwood. Trails wind through old-growth forests, along wild rivers, and to pristine waterfalls, presenting some of the region's most immersive wilderness experiences. With its abundant wildlife and tranquil beauty, Ottawa National Forest is a must-visit for serious hikers and solitude seekers alike.