New Era MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near New Era, Michigan.
1. William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL ROUTE
William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park invites hikers to experience a 22-mile paved rail trail meandering through forests and rural landscapes. The trail features scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and multiple access points in nearby towns, making it ideal for both easy day hikes and longer adventures. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful journey through Michigan's countryside, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons.
2. Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area
DUNES AND LAKE VIEWS
Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area offers hikers a unique adventure among sand dunes, wooded areas, and views of Lake Michigan. Trails wind through protected landscapes filled with rare plants and birdlife, making it a favorite for nature lovers. The proximity to Lake Michigan provides opportunities for beach access and stunning coastal vistas.
3. Mount Baldhead Park
HISTORIC DUNE CLIMB
Mount Baldhead Park is home to a challenging staircase climb leading to panoramic views atop the dune and sweeping scenery of the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan. Hikers can explore trails through wooded hills and enjoy the historic charm of the area. The park's unique geography makes it a popular spot for both strenuous exercise and nature appreciation.
4. Seidman Park Outside Loop
WOODED LOOP HIKING
Seidman Park Outside Loop provides a 4.5-mile trail through tranquil woodlands, open meadows, and boardwalks over wetland areas. The varied terrain is excellent for wildlife observation and photography. Its well-marked paths and peaceful surroundings make it a family-friendly hiking destination.
5. Wakazoo Trail (Northwest Trail)
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FOREST PATH
Wakazoo Trail, also known as the Northwest Trail, offers an easy-to-follow route ideal for hikers of all ages and abilities. The shaded trail is nestled within a quiet woodland near Grand Haven and is a favorite among local families for its gentle elevation and natural beauty. Birdwatchers and casual walkers will find it especially inviting year-round.
6. Little Sable Point Lighthouse Trail
LIGHTHOUSE AND BEACH WALK
The Little Sable Point Lighthouse Trail winds through sand dunes and ends at the iconic lighthouse overlooking Lake Michigan. Hikers can enjoy scenic beach walks and sweeping lake views, with opportunities for photography and picnicking near the historic structure. The blend of natural and historical features makes this a top hiking spot in the Silver Lake area.
7. Allegan Pine Plains Natural Area Trail
RARE PINE SAND PLAINS
Allegan Pine Plains Natural Area Trail winds through a unique sand plain ecosystem filled with jack pine, oak, and a diverse range of wildflowers. The flat, easy trail is perfect for nature observation and peaceful strolls. This preserve is especially popular in the spring and summer when the flora and fauna are at their most vibrant.
8. Silver Lake State Park Trails
DUNES AND LAKEFRONT
Silver Lake State Park offers expansive hiking trails that traverse impressive sand dunes, forests, and border the shores of Silver Lake and Lake Michigan. The park is renowned for its dynamic dune system and sweeping vistas, providing adventurous treks for all skill levels. After the hike, visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, or exploring off-road vehicle areas nearby.
9. Grand Haven State Park
BOARDWALKS AND LAKE VIEWS
Grand Haven State Park's trails and boardwalks lead hikers along the Lake Michigan shoreline, with stunning views of the beach and iconic red lighthouse. This lively park offers short, accessible paths perfect for families, as well as opportunities to observe passing ships and dramatic sunsets. The scenic waterfront is a highlight for anyone exploring West Michigan's coast.
10. Ottawa Sands County Park
SAND DUNES AND WETLANDS
Ottawa Sands County Park features miles of trails winding through sand dunes, oak savannas, and restored wetlands just outside Ferrysburg. Hikers enjoy diverse landscapes, lake views, and well-maintained paths which are suitable for both hiking and birdwatching. The park's natural beauty and varied terrain make it a hidden gem along Michigan's lakeshore.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the top-rated trails and parks found throughout the state, from forested highlands to roaring rivers and sandy dunes. Michigan is renowned for its diversity, offering pristine routes in state parks, national forests, and scenic recreation areas. Hikers of all skill levels can find unforgettable experiences, panoramic views, and natural wonders across the state.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the best beach and coastal trails running along the Great Lakes' vast shores. These routes showcase dramatic dunes, sandy beaches, and rocky outcrops, providing stunning views and opportunities for swimming or wildlife viewing. From the lighthouses of Lake Michigan to secluded beaches on Lake Superior, Michigan's shoreline trails are bucket-list destinations for hikers and nature lovers.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails perfect for seekers of solitude and wildlife observation. These hidden spots range from quiet forest paths to remote wetlands, offering peaceful surrounds far from the crowds. Adventurous hikers have the chance to spot deer, birds, and rare plants while immersing themselves in undisturbed nature.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking experiences are defined by vibrant fall foliage blanketing forests, hills, and lake shores. Whether climbing ridges or strolling through colorful hardwood groves, hikers are treated to breathtaking vistas of red, orange, and gold leaves. The crisp air and scenic beauty of Michigan's autumn trails make this the most picturesque time of year for outdoor exploration.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS HIKING
Ottawa National Forest, located near Ironwood, offers more than 500,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness with a vast network of hiking trails through old-growth forests, lakes, and waterfalls. This expansive area is perfect for long-distance treks and backcountry exploration, with unique opportunities to observe wildlife and escape into solitude. Ottawa is a premier destination for those seeking Michigan's most rugged and remote adventures.