Mattawan MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Mattawan, Michigan.
1. Portman Nature Preserve
SCENIC LAKEFRONT TRAILS
Portman Nature Preserve offers hikers nearly two miles of packed dirt trails weaving through diverse landscapes including woodlands, wetlands, and the shore of Mud Lake. Visitors can enjoy both hilly forested paths and a lakeside observation platform, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The preserve is a tranquil escape just outside downtown Mattawan, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
2. Battle Creek Linear Park
URBAN GREENWAY EXPERIENCE
Battle Creek Linear Park is a 25.9-mile paved trail system connecting various neighborhoods, parks, and recreational areas across Battle Creek. Hikers can enjoy scenic stretches along the Kalamazoo River and shaded tree-lined corridors. It's ideal for those seeking a long, continuous route right within the city.
3. Buck Creek Trail
SHORT COMMUNITY PATHWAY
Buck Creek Trail is a charming 2.5-mile trail nestled in the city of Wyoming, offering hikers a refreshing green escape. The path meanders along Buck Creek and through woodlands, with several parks and picnic areas adjacent to the trail. It's perfect for a peaceful, leisurely stroll close to town.
4. Calhoun County Trailway
PRAIRIE & FOREST WALK
The Calhoun County Trailway provides a 5.3-mile journey through forests, open fields, and prairies in the greater Battle Creek area. Hikers can explore diverse habitats and enjoy tranquil surroundings full of wildflowers and birdlife. The trail is accessible for all skill levels and connects with regional parks.
5. Dune Succession Trail
CLASSIC DUNE ECOSYSTEMS
Dune Succession Trail, located in Hoffmaster State Park, guides hikers through dramatic sand dunes and offers panoramic Lake Michigan views. The 0.6-mile route is famous for its interpretive signage explaining the ever-changing dune environment. It's a must-see for those interested in unique geology and coastal landscapes.
6. Crow's Nest/Tallmadge Woods Trail
WOODLAND VIEWS & ELEVATION
The Crow's Nest/Tallmadge Woods Trail in Saugatuck spans 1.7 miles and rewards hikers with elevated views of the Kalamazoo River valley. The trail traverses mature forests and rolling hills, creating a serene woodland atmosphere. It's a favorite for those seeking quiet scenery and gentle climbs.
7. Trail 10
FORESTED ADVENTURE ROUTE
Trail 10 at Warren Dunes State Park offers a challenging 5.8-mile trek through sand dunes, dense woods, and open savannah. Hikers can spot wildlife and enjoy changing terrain, with several scenic overlooks of Lake Michigan. This diverse trail is popular with avid hikers and nature lovers alike.
8. Kal-Haven Trail State Park
RAIL-TRAIL CLASSIC
Kal-Haven Trail State Park stretches 34.5 miles between South Haven and Kalamazoo, passing close to Mattawan. The crushed limestone trail is surrounded by farms, forests, and small towns, making it popular for long-distance hiking, biking, and even snowmobiling in winter. Trailheads and amenities are found throughout the route for easy access.
9. Yankee Springs Recreation Area
ROLLING HILLS & LAKES
Yankee Springs Recreation Area boasts over 30 miles of hiking trails winding through forested hills and around several pristine lakes. The area is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, from pine plantations to wetlands, attracting hikers of all abilities. Numerous loop trails offer options for both short walks and day-long adventures.
10. Van Buren State Park
BEACHES & SAND DUNES
Van Buren State Park, located in South Haven, features miles of hiking along wooded trails, sand dunes, and a wide Lake Michigan beach. Hikers enjoy panoramic views, wildflowers in spring, and opportunities for birdwatching throughout the park's diverse terrain. It's a favorite for family outings and seaside strolls.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most iconic trails across the state, from forested pathways in the Upper Peninsula to coastal treks along the Great Lakes. Adventurers can experience varied landscapes, including waterfalls, rugged ridges, and serene woodlands. Michigan's extensive trail network ensures something memorable for hikers of all experience levels.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL SCENIC PATHS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features the state's most beautiful beach and lakeshore trails, highlighting the rugged charm of Great Lakes coasts. Hikers can enjoy sandy stretches, dramatic dunes, and hidden coves, often with sweeping water views. These trails are perfect for summer explorations and sunset walks along the water.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED TRAIL DISCOVERIES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems offer some of the state's best spots for solitude and wildlife observation, tucked away from the crowds. These lesser-known trails wind through remote forests, marshes, and quiet lakeshores, attracting birdwatchers and nature photographers. They provide a peaceful retreat for those seeking a more intimate outdoor experience.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
BEST FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases vibrant fall colors along some of the state's most scenic trails, especially throughout hardwood forests and rolling hills. Hikers can immerse themselves in beautiful foliage displays from late September through October, with scenic overlooks and tranquil woodlands. It's the perfect way to experience Michigan's dynamic and colorful seasonal change.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers hundreds of miles of wilderness trails through old-growth forests, alongside rivers, and past scenic waterfalls. Hikers can explore quiet backcountry paths, challenging backpacking routes, and accessible day hikes. The forest's vast expanse is ideal for adventurers looking to experience Michigan's wild side.