New Haven MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near New Haven, Michigan.
1. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
SCENIC WOODED PATHWAYS
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail offers a beautiful 5.1-mile route winding through dense hardwood forests just outside of New Haven. Hikers enjoy a tranquil setting, abundant wildlife sightings, and well-marked loops perfect for both short walks and longer treks. This trail is especially beloved for its serene atmosphere and opportunity to experience Michigan's natural beauty up close.
2. Shields Trail
WILDLIFE AND PRAIRIE VIEWS
Shields Trail is a 4.7-mile route near New Haven that winds through grassy meadows and quiet woodlands. The trail is popular for birdwatchers, casual hikers, and anyone seeking open views of Michigan's peaceful countryside. With gentle terrain, Shields Trail is accessible for all skill levels and makes for an excellent afternoon walk.
3. River Trail
ALONG PEACEFUL WATERWAYS
The River Trail meanders for nearly a mile along a gentle waterway in New Haven, providing easy access to picturesque riverside scenery. This short but scenic path is perfect for a quick stroll or as part of a longer day outdoors, offering benches and quiet spots for relaxation. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the calming sound of flowing water and the chance to spot local wildlife.
4. Forestview Natural Area Trail
NATURE PRESERVE WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail is a 0.9-mile loop located in a protected preserve, showcasing diverse plant life and mature trees. Walkers can enjoy shaded paths, interpretive signage about local flora, and peaceful settings ideal for meditation or photography. It's a favorite for families and solo hikers seeking a brief escape into nature.
5. Bluffs Trail
ELEVATED VISTA POINTS
Bluffs Trail provides hikers in New Haven with scenic overlooks and gently rolling hills over its route. The trail's elevated sections offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a top pick for sunrise or sunset walks. Its accessible length and well-kept paths appeal to both casual hikers and those seeking a bit more of a challenge.
6. Stony Creek Metropark Trails
LAKESIDE AND FOREST HIKES
Stony Creek Metropark offers an extensive network of hiking trails along lakeshores and through woodlands just west of New Haven. Visitors can choose from easy walking loops to more demanding paths with hills, all featuring beautiful scenery and well-maintained facilities. Popular year-round, the park is ideal for both active hikers and those seeking leisurely nature walks.
7. Macomb Orchard Trail
RAIL-TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Macomb Orchard Trail is a 23.5-mile multi-use route stretching from Shelby Township to Richmond, passing near New Haven. This converted rail-trail is paved, making it perfect for both hikers and cyclists who want a smooth, scenic journey through small towns and countryside. Along the route, users enjoy orchards, farmland, and changing views across the seasons.
8. Paint Creek Trail
PIONEERING RAIL TRAIL
Paint Creek Trail, Michigan's first rail-trail, runs 8.9 miles from Rochester to Lake Orion, easily reached from New Haven. The trail passes through wooded areas, meadows, and over streams, offering a scenic hike that is both relaxing and rich in local history. Its gentle grades and well-kept surface attract hikers of all ages and abilities.
9. Wolcott Mill Metropark Trails
HISTORIC MILL SETTINGS
Wolcott Mill Metropark offers several miles of hiking trails winding through forested areas and along the Clinton River near historic mill buildings. Visitors enjoy a mix of open fields, riverside paths, and shaded forests while exploring the unique agricultural history of the site. With its blend of natural and cultural attractions, it's a rewarding destination for a day hike.
10. Huron Pointe Sportsmen Association Trails
RURAL NATURE TRAILS
The Huron Pointe Sportsmen Association features a variety of rustic trails open to members and visitors for hiking and wildlife observation. Located in a quiet rural setting outside New Haven, these trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with Michigan's outdoors. The area is known for its tranquility and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most acclaimed hiking trails across the state, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all regions. From rustic woodland paths to panoramic ridgelines, Michigan offers a variety of experiences suitable for every skill level. These trails highlight the state's natural diversity, from Upper Peninsula wilderness to lakeshore vistas and ancient forests.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
LAKESHORE AND DUNE TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's best beach and coastal trails, where hikers can explore endless freshwater shores, dunes, and rugged cliffs. Popular routes include stretches along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, offering breathtaking vistas and the soothing sounds of rolling waves. These trails provide unique opportunities to experience iconic sunsets and explore dynamic lakeside ecosystems.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDERNESS PATHS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems features lesser-known wilderness hikes ideal for those seeking solitude and wildlife watching. These trails often traverse remote forests, wetlands, and nature preserves where visitors can spot deer, birds, and other native animals. For those desiring a quieter, more immersive outdoor experience, these secluded paths reveal a different side of Michigan's natural beauty.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the best trails for viewing vibrant fall colors, drawing leaf-peepers from across the region every autumn. Forested routes throughout the state, from the Lower Peninsula to the Upper Peninsula, showcase fiery reds, golds, and oranges in a spectacular seasonal display. These hikes are ideal for photographers, families, and anyone eager to experience Michigan's legendary autumn scenery.
15. Ottawa National Forest
UPPER PENINSULA ADVENTURE
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula near Ironwood, offers some of the state's wildest and most scenic hiking opportunities. Its sprawling network of trails features old-growth forests, rushing rivers, and hidden waterfalls, perfect for both day hikes and backcountry excursions. Outdoor enthusiasts are rewarded with solitude, wildlife sightings, and unforgettable views in one of Michigan's most pristine natural areas.