Milan MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Milan, Michigan.
1. Draper-Houston Meadows Preserve
QUIET NATURE TRAIL
Draper-Houston Meadows Preserve in Milan offers a peaceful retreat with a well-maintained loop trail that winds through meadows and woodland. Walkers can enjoy boardwalks over wetlands, gentle hills, and birdwatching opportunities throughout the year. The accessible paths and tranquil atmosphere make it a family-friendly destination for hikers of all skill levels.
2. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
MULTI-SEASONAL LOOP TRAIL
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail in Pinckney offers scenic loops perfect for both hikers and cross-country skiers. The trail features rolling hills, dense forest, and well-marked routes, providing a quiet escape into nature. Visitors enjoy the changing scenery across seasons, making it a favorite for local outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Pinckney Recreation Area
NATURE PRESERVE NETWORK
Pinckney Recreation Area is renowned for its extensive trail network, pristine lakes, and rolling hills. Hikers can explore a variety of loops ranging from easy walks to challenging treks through lush forests and scenic landscapes. The area is particularly popular for weekend day trips and wildlife observation.
4. Delta East/West Trail
WOODLAND WALKWAY
Delta East/West Trail in Ann Arbor invites hikers to enjoy a pleasant route through wooded terrain and natural wetland areas. The trail is accessible for beginners, offering views of local flora and seasonal wildflowers. It's a favorite among locals seeking a short, serene break from city life.
5. Gallup Park
RIVERFRONT TRAILS
Gallup Park in Ann Arbor is famous for its scenic walking and biking paths following the Huron River. The park offers lush waterways, bridges, and picnic areas, making it a vibrant spot for casual strolls and birdwatching. Families and fitness enthusiasts alike enjoy its well-maintained, easy-to-navigate paths.
6. University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum
URBAN BOTANICAL ESCAPE
The University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor provides a diverse landscape for hiking, from steep wooded valleys to peaceful open lawns. Known for its impressive peony garden and riverside trails, the Arb offers year-round beauty and educational opportunities. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks or nature photography within the city.
7. Heritage Park
FAMILY NATURE TRAILS
Heritage Park in Canton offers an accessible hiking experience with multiple paved and unpaved trails winding through wooded and open areas. Kids enjoy playgrounds and wildlife spotting along the way, while adults appreciate the scenic picnic spots. With year-round access, it's a favorite for those seeking a quick outdoor adventure.
8. Lower Huron Metropark
WOODED RIVER PATHS
Lower Huron Metropark in Belleville features miles of multi-use trails that meander along the Huron River, offering peaceful views of forests and meadows. The park's variety of hiking options appeals to both beginners and experienced hikers, with plenty of shaded areas and wildlife sightings. Visitors also enjoy picnic facilities and river access for a well-rounded outing.
9. Barton Nature Area
HURON RIVER WILDERNESS
Barton Nature Area in Ann Arbor offers a series of tranquil trails through woodlands and wetlands alongside the Huron River. Hikers can experience a variety of habitats, from open meadows to lush floodplains rich with wildlife. The peaceful setting and proximity to the city make it a popular spot for both short and long hikes.
10. Delhi Metropark
RIVERSIDE WALKWAYS
Delhi Metropark, located near Ann Arbor, offers picturesque trails along the Huron River lined with wildflowers and mature trees. Visitors can enjoy riverside views, gentle terrain, and peaceful picnic areas perfect for family outings. The park is well-loved for its serene environment and easy access from the city.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
MICHIGAN TRAIL FAVORITES
Best Michigan Hiking introduces outdoor enthusiasts to the state's most celebrated trails, ranging from scenic forests to lakeside paths and rugged highlands. Hikers across Michigan can experience trails that showcase dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique geological features. These highlights offer exceptional options for day hikes, long treks, and adventures in all seasons.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
GREAT LAKES VISTAS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking offers breathtaking coastal trails along the shores of the Great Lakes, with sandy beaches, towering dunes, and panoramic water views. These trails are perfect for hikers seeking the soothing sounds of waves, dramatic sunsets, and opportunities for beachcombing. The state's extensive shoreline ensures many memorable experiences for both casual walkers and serious trekkers.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights lesser-known trails offering solitude, quiet forests, and abundant wildlife sightings. Adventurous hikers enjoy these off-the-beaten-path locations for their raw beauty and serenity, away from crowds. These special spots are treasured for peaceful walks, birdwatching, and immersive experiences in Michigan's natural landscapes.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TREKKING
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the state's trails during peak fall colors, with vibrant displays of red, orange, and yellow foliage. Many popular parks and forests become magical destinations for leaf peeping, photography, and crisp walks. The spectacular scenery draws visitors from across the region each autumn for unforgettable hiking adventures.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS ADVENTURE TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest, near Watersmeet, is renowned for its vast expanses of dense northern woods, scenic rivers, and stunning waterfalls. Hikers can traverse over 196 trails covering hundreds of miles, from short interpretive walks to backcountry adventures. Rich biodiversity and pristine wilderness create an ideal setting for nature lovers and experienced trekkers.