Ortonville MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ortonville, Michigan.
1. Ortonville Recreation Area Trails
EXPANSIVE WOODED ADVENTURES
Ortonville Recreation Area Trails offer hikers a network of scenic paths through rolling hills, mature forests, and serene lakes. The trails accommodate various skill levels, with loop options and connections to diverse landscapes, making them a favorite for both casual walkers and seasoned adventurers. Wildlife sightings and tranquil natural settings abound, providing a classic Michigan hiking experience close to Ortonville.
2. Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loops Trail
ROLLING WOODS AND LAKES
The Kerr Hill and Four Lakes Loops Trail in Ortonville winds through beautiful backwoods, offering hikers a mix of elevation and lakeside views. The routes take trekkers over wooded hills, past tranquil wetlands, and around sparkling lakes, making it ideal for photography and nature lovers. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, wildlife, and well-marked trails that suit a variety of hiking abilities.
3. Bloomer Park – Ortonville-Bloomer Trail
HARDWOOD FOREST WALKS
The Ortonville-Bloomer Trail starts in Ortonville and stretches for 2.5 miles through mature hardwood and pine forest stands. With two scenic loops and a peaceful wooded setting, it's a favorite for hikers who appreciate shade and natural tranquility. Trailheads are conveniently located off State Park Road, making access simple for those seeking a refreshing escape near town.
4. Holly Recreation Area Trails
LAKES AND FOREST HIKING
Holly Recreation Area Trails, just minutes from Ortonville in Holly, feature a wide network of paths winding through woodlands, wetlands, and around multiple lakes. These trails are renowned for their variety, offering both challenging and gentle terrain across diverse natural environments. It's a popular destination for hikers seeking a mix of scenic views and well-maintained trails.
5. Shields Trail
SECLUDED WOODED PATHS
Shields Trail is a 4.7-mile route in Ortonville weaving through quiet woods and offering a serene escape from daily life. With its gently rolling terrain and peaceful surroundings, it's perfect for those seeking solitude and immersion in nature. The well-marked loop brings visitors close to local flora and occasional wildlife sightings.
6. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
ALL-SEASON FOREST TRAIL
The Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail provides a 5.1-mile journey through hardwood forests and rolling hills in Ortonville. It's accessible year-round, inviting hikers, runners, and even cross-country skiers to enjoy its well-maintained paths and beautiful Michigan scenery. The trail's peaceful woods and gentle inclines make it a regional favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. River Trail
RIVERSIDE SHORT HIKE
River Trail in Ortonville, spanning 0.9 miles, offers a short but scenic hike along the water's edge. This peaceful route is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a quick immersion into nature. Its proximity to town and gentle terrain make it a convenient choice for an afternoon stroll.
8. Forestview Natural Area Trail
FORESTED TRANQUIL WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail is a 0.9-mile loop in Ortonville that immerses hikers in a serene forest setting. The path is easy and suitable for all ages, making it an excellent option for families or those seeking a quick dose of nature. Visitors often enjoy birdwatching and quiet reflection among the towering trees.
9. Orange Trail
COLOR-CODED ADVENTURE LOOP
The Orange Trail in Ortonville offers hikers a clearly marked, looped path through lush woods and gentle terrain. Its distinctive color-coding helps visitors easily navigate the route, making it a reliable choice for both novices and experienced hikers. Natural beauty and accessibility make this trail a staple of the local outdoor scene.
10. Paint Creek Trail
SCENIC MULTI-USE PATH
The Paint Creek Trail, stretching from Rochester and accessible from nearby Ortonville, is a popular multi-use path that winds alongside Paint Creek for over 8 miles. Its crushed limestone surface supports hiking, biking, and running, with beautiful creekside views throughout. This family-friendly trail attracts nature enthusiasts and those seeking a longer, leisurely outdoor journey.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKES STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's premier trails, from rugged Upper Peninsula wildernesses to scenic Lower Peninsula routes. These trails offer everything from challenging elevation changes and dense forests to lakeside vistas and waterfalls, catering to every level of outdoor adventurer. Exploring Michigan's best hikes guarantees travelers stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable outings throughout the year.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACHES AND COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features breathtaking beach and coastal trails along the Great Lakes, including iconic routes on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. These paths blend sandy dunes, forested bluffs, and sweeping water views for a unique lakeside hiking experience. Trekkers can enjoy dramatic sunsets, geological features, and the soothing sounds of freshwater waves along these picturesque coastal adventures.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED AND WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems introduces outdoor lovers to the state's lesser-known trails, perfect for those seeking solitude, quiet, and abundant wildlife. These hidden paths traverse remote woodlands, wetlands, and meadows that are often overlooked but rich in natural beauty. Hikers here can expect peaceful journeys, rare animal sightings, and a deeper connection with Michigan's wild side.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ADVENTURES
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the state's most spectacular trails for viewing vibrant fall foliage, from rolling hills in the Lower Peninsula to hardwood forests up north. These routes delight visitors with colorful canopies, crisp autumn air, and picturesque vistas that transform with the season. Leaf-peepers can enjoy leisurely walks or challenging hikes amid some of the best autumn scenery in the Midwest.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS HIKING HAVEN
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula is renowned for its sprawling wilderness and extensive network of hiking trails. The forest offers everything from short nature loops to challenging backcountry routes that traverse old-growth forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Outdoor enthusiasts flock here for solitude, varied landscapes, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the grandeur of northern Michigan.