Munising MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Munising, Michigan.
1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
ICONIC LAKESHORE TRAILS
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers over 100 miles of hiking trails, winding through rugged cliffs, vibrant forests, and dramatic views along Lake Superior. Hikers can explore waterfalls, beaches, forest wilderness, and breathtaking overlooks, making it a must-visit for those wanting to experience the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Whether for a short stroll or a multi-day trek, the park's diverse landscapes provide unforgettable adventures.
2. Miners Falls Trail
SCENIC WATERFALL HIKE
Miners Falls Trail takes hikers on a relatively short and accessible walk through lush forest to a dramatic viewing platform overlooking the 50-foot Miners Falls. The well-maintained path features gentle terrain and showcases a variety of Upper Peninsula flora, making it suitable for most visitors. Its convenient location and rewarding views make it one of Munising's top waterfall hikes.
3. Munising Falls Trail
EASY URBAN WATERFALL WALK
Munising Falls Trail is an easy, paved path located directly outside the Munising visitor center, leading quickly to the picturesque 50-foot Munising Falls. The shaded trail is ideal for families and those wanting a gentle stroll, with interpretive signs along the way. This serene spot is perfect for a quick nature escape within the city limits.
4. Miners Castle and Beach Trail
CLIFFTOP AND SHORELINE VIEWS
The Miners Castle and Beach Trail offers hikers stunning vistas from one of Pictured Rocks' most famous viewpoints before descending to a quiet Lake Superior beach. The route showcases unique sandstone formations, forests, and the vibrant colors of the lakeshore. It's a favorite for those wanting a blend of panoramic views and beach relaxation.
5. Grand Island Loop
ISLAND WILDERNESS TREK
Grand Island Loop circles Grand Island, just off the Munising coast, offering a secluded hiking experience with stunning cliff-top overlooks and forested trails. Accessible by ferry, this 20-mile loop provides opportunities to explore sandy beaches, historic sites, and remote woodland habitats. The island's diverse terrain makes it ideal for multi-day hikes or adventurous day-trippers.
6. Bruno's Run Trail
GENTLE LAKE CIRCUIT
Bruno's Run Trail is a peaceful 10-mile loop meandering past small lakes and through gently rolling forests near Wetmore, just south of Munising. Its moderate terrain and scenic beauty make it a favorite for both casual hikers and those seeking tranquil, natural surroundings. The trail is especially prized for wildlife viewing and serene lakeside vistas.
7. North Country Trail
LONG-DISTANCE ADVENTURE ROUTE
The North Country National Scenic Trail traverses through the Munising area as part of its 4,600-mile journey across the northern United States. Hikers in this section are treated to rugged forests, rivers, and the spectacular scenery of Pictured Rocks. Whether undertaking a day-hike or part of a longer adventure, this trail section delivers diverse landscapes and rich wildlife encounters.
8. Chapel Loop Trail
WILD COASTAL CIRCUIT
Chapel Loop Trail is one of the region's most popular longer hikes, featuring waterfalls, remote beaches, dramatic cliffs, and thick forests. The loop is about 10 miles and includes favorite sights like Chapel Rock and Mosquito Falls. This challenging trail provides a comprehensive taste of Pictured Rocks' natural treasures.
9. Munising Mountain Bike Park Trails
MULTI-USE FOREST PATHS
The Munising Mountain Bike Park features the Gateway Loop and Munising Bay Loop, which are open to hikers and bikers alike. These non-motorized trails offer scenic forest routes with varying elevations and are conveniently located near downtown Munising. Their accessibility and multi-use design make them a great option for families and active visitors.
10. Tannery Falls Trail
HIDDEN WATERFALL HIKE
Tannery Falls Trail leads hikers through a peaceful wooded ravine to a secluded 40-foot waterfall. The unmarked path and tranquil surroundings make it a hidden gem for those seeking a quiet escape. Its proximity to town and natural beauty attract both dedicated hikers and waterfall enthusiasts.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATEWIDE HIKES
Best Michigan Hiking showcases a collection of the state's most celebrated trails, known for their breathtaking scenery, varied terrain, and accessibility for all skill levels. From waterfall-studded paths to rugged lakeshore treks, Michigan offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Iconic locales like Pictured Rocks, Porcupine Mountains, and Sleeping Bear Dunes highlight the state's hiking excellence.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH & COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking celebrates the extensive network of trails along the Great Lakes, featuring sandy beaches, towering dunes, and forested bluffs. Trekkers enjoy panoramic vistas, wildlife observation, and refreshing lake breezes as they explore these scenic coastal paths. Trails like those at Pictured Rocks and Sleeping Bear Dunes offer some of the best beach hiking experiences in the Midwest.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED TRAILS & WILDLIFE
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights less-traveled trails that offer solitude, pristine natural settings, and excellent wildlife viewing. These quiet escapes are perfect for hikers seeking tranquility away from the crowds, often passing through untouched forests, remote wetlands, and serene lakeshores. From the Upper Peninsula to rural Lower Michigan, these hidden gems promise peaceful exploration and discovery.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
SPECTACULAR FALL FOLIAGE
Michigan Autumn Hiking is renowned for vibrant displays of red, gold, and orange as the state's forests transform each fall. Numerous trails, especially in the northern parts of the state, provide breathtaking views of changing leaves, framed by lakes and rolling hills. Peak hiking spots like Pictured Rocks, Porcupine Mountains, and Hartwick Pines offer some of the Midwest's most spectacular autumn scenery.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST FOREST ADVENTURES
Ottawa National Forest, located primarily near Ironwood, Michigan, offers vast expanses of wilderness with hundreds of miles of hiking trails through old-growth forests, lakes, and rivers. The area is celebrated for its solitude, diverse ecosystems, and excellent opportunities for backpacking and wildlife spotting. Visitors immerse themselves in deep woods and serene landscapes that capture the wild spirit of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.