Ontonagon MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ontonagon, Michigan.
1. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
MICHIGAN'S WILDERNESS JEWEL
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is Ontonagon's signature hiking area, boasting over 60,000 acres and nearly 90 miles of scenic trails. Hikers can explore diverse terrain, from old-growth forests and rugged ridges to waterfalls and the iconic Lake of the Clouds overlook. The park offers trails for all abilities and remains a must-visit for those seeking Michigan's finest wilderness experience.
2. Little Carp River Trail
RIVER AND WATERFALLS TREK
Little Carp River Trail in Ontonagon features a stunning route along its namesake river, offering visitors multiple waterfall views and peaceful forested settings. The trail is well-loved for its abundance of natural beauty and opportunities to spot local wildlife. It's an ideal path for both day hikers and backpackers aiming to explore Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
3. Lake Superior Trail
SHORELINE VIEWS EXPERIENCE
Lake Superior Trail offers hikers in Ontonagon unforgettable vistas along Michigan's legendary Great Lake shoreline. This challenging route is known for dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and uninterrupted views of the water. It's a favorite among those seeking both beauty and solitude on a longer trek.
4. Union Mine Trail
HISTORIC FOREST WALK
Union Mine Trail in Ontonagon combines rich mining history with tranquil woodland scenery in a family-friendly loop. Interpretive signs along the path provide insights into the area's copper mining past. This short jaunt is perfect for those who appreciate a mix of culture, history, and nature.
5. Big Carp River Trail
RUGGED RIVER ADVENTURE
Big Carp River Trail is a favorite in Ontonagon for its dynamic terrain and sweeping vistas. Hikers can enjoy a challenging route that winds through dense forests, crosses rocky ridges, and descends to the river valley, where waterfalls and riverbanks await. Its variety makes it a highlight for both long-distance trekkers and serious adventurers.
6. Beaver Creek Trail
PEACEFUL WATERWAY PATH
Beaver Creek Trail in Ontonagon offers a serene hike along a gentle northern Michigan waterway. This trail is perfect for those seeking quiet, birdwatching, and lush forest scenery. Its easy terrain makes it ideal for families and beginners.
7. Bond Falls Loop
WATERFALL LOOP ESCAPADE
Bond Falls Loop, located near Bruce Crossing, is a short and accessible hike famed for its spectacular cascading waterfall. The loop is well-suited for all skill levels and is a favorite for photography and picnics. It's a rewarding stop in Michigan's Upper Peninsula for anyone exploring the Ontonagon area.
8. O Kun De Kun Trail
SUSPENSION BRIDGE HIKE
O Kun De Kun Trail, part of the North Country Trail System near Bruce Crossing, is best known for its impressive suspension bridge and scenic waterfalls. The trail is fairly level and suitable for an easy hike, making it accessible to most visitors. With forested surroundings and river views, it's a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
9. Cascade Falls Trail
SCENIC FALLS ROUTE
Cascade Falls Trail near Bergland offers two scenic routes—one to a bluff with panoramic river views and another along the valley to a quaint waterfall. The trail is short but provides a perfect taste of Upper Peninsula beauty, suitable for both families and seasoned hikers. It's a tranquil retreat for those seeking a mix of gentle hiking and rewarding vistas.
10. Trap Hills Traverse Trail
BLUFFS AND RIDGES
Trap Hills Traverse Trail near Bergland carries hikers through rugged bluffs with dramatic overlooks of the western Upper Peninsula. The trail offers a mix of elevation gain, rocky outcrops, and seclusion, making it popular with adventurous hikers and photographers. Its wild scenery rewards those looking for a true backcountry Michigan experience.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking showcases the state's premier trails, ranging from forested paths and scenic ridgelines to lakeshore strolls and deep wilderness excursions. Hikers can experience a variety of environments, including the iconic Porcupine Mountains, North Country Trail, and Sleeping Bear Dunes. These top routes highlight the diversity and grandeur of Michigan's outdoor adventure scene.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAIL ESCAPES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking celebrates the state's unparalleled beach and coastal trails, offering hikers long walks atop dunes, through coastal forests, and beside crystal-clear Great Lakes waters. From sandy stretches at Sleeping Bear Dunes to the rugged cliffs of Pictured Rocks, these trails provide unforgettable views and refreshing lake breezes. The state's extensive shoreline ensures beach lovers and hikers can always find a scenic coastal path to explore.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems offer tranquil trails tucked away from the crowds, perfect for solitude and wildlife observation. These lesser-known routes wind through remote forests, quiet wetlands, and untouched landscapes, providing a serene experience for nature enthusiasts. They are ideal for hikers seeking peaceful adventure and encounters with Michigan's diverse flora and fauna.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ROUTES
Michigan Autumn Hiking highlights trails renowned for spectacular fall colors, drawing hikers through vibrant forests ablaze with reds, oranges, and golds. Destinations like the Porcupine Mountains, Leelanau Peninsula, and Huron-Manistee National Forests are especially prized in autumn. These routes promise both crisp air and breathtaking foliage for the ultimate seasonal adventure.
15. Ottawa National Forest
SPRAWLING FOREST TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest surrounds Ontonagon with hundreds of miles of trails winding through dense woods, pristine rivers, and tranquil lakes. The area offers routes for all skill levels, from gentle rambles to challenging treks, and showcases the wilderness characteristic of northern Michigan. It's a destination of choice for hikers seeking extensive backcountry and peaceful immersion in nature.