Perrinton MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Perrinton, Michigan.
1. Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail
RIVER AND RAILWAY WALK
Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail offers hikers a scenic journey along nearly 18 miles of converted rail corridor as it weaves through Bay City. The trail combines riverside views, quiet neighborhoods, and access to local parks, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. With its flat terrain, this multi-use path is ideal for hikers of all skill levels year-round.
2. Bay-Zil Rail Trail
PEACEFUL RAIL TRAIL
The Bay-Zil Rail Trail connects Bay City with the village of Zilwaukee and offers seven miles of tranquil hiking on a converted railroad grade. The trail passes through woodlands and open farmland, offering a relatively quiet, nature-filled experience. Hikers can enjoy bird watching, a gentle pace, and convenient access points along the way.
3. Cannon Township Trail
WOODLANDS AND WATERWAYS
Cannon Township Trail gives hikers a peaceful route through lush woodlands, wetlands, and alongside local streams in Cannon Township. This four-mile trail system is well-marked and maintained, making it accessible to families and nature enthusiasts alike. The area is known for its serene environment and opportunities to spot wildlife within easy reach of Grand Rapids.
4. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
FOREST TRAIL LOOP
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail offers a classic five-mile loop through dense northern Michigan woodland just outside Gladwin. The trail is open year-round, providing excellent hiking in warmer months and cross-country skiing in winter. Hikers enjoy rolling hills, peaceful forests, and the beauty of secluded Michigan nature.
5. Shields Trail
EASY TOWN PATHWAY
Shields Trail winds for nearly five miles through the community of Thomas Township, providing a paved and welcoming trail experience. This accessible trail cuts through neighborhoods and parkland, perfect for families or beginners seeking an easy stroll. Seasonal foliage and community charm make it an inviting local favorite.
6. River Trail
SCENIC WATERWAY PATH
The River Trail runs along Grand Rapids' riverfront and park system, offering a short but scenic hike close to the city's cultural attractions. It is a popular urban trail for both visitors and residents, with views of the water and nearby green spaces. It's perfect for a quick nature escape within city limits.
7. Forestview Natural Area Trail
NATURAL AREA WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail in Greenville is a short, one-mile trail immersed in tranquil woodland surroundings. This loop is designed for easy access and is perfect for bird watchers and casual hikers seeking a peaceful outing. Well-maintained and surrounded by native plants, it provides a true taste of Michigan's natural beauty.
8. Bluffs Nature Area
URBAN NATURE ESCAPE
Bluffs Nature Area in Ann Arbor offers urban dwellers a quiet 39-acre park with hilly trails and expansive views. The network of hiking paths winds through open meadows and wooded bluffs, providing a variety of habitats to explore. It's an ideal spot for a quick escape into nature without leaving the city.
9. Potawatomi Trail
CLASSIC STATE PARK LOOP
The Potawatomi Trail, located near Chelsea in Pinckney Recreation Area, is one of Michigan's most beloved long-distance hikes spanning 17.5 miles. The route rolls through hardwood forests, around lakes, and past scenic vistas, drawing hikers and backpackers alike. Its moderate elevation changes and well-marked path make it a quintessential Michigan experience.
10. Seidman Park Outside Loop
SPRAWLING PARK SYSTEM
Seidman Park Outside Loop in Ada Township delivers a four-and-a-half mile circuit through one of west Michigan's premier park systems. The trail crosses a variety of habitats, from marshes to woods, and provides birding opportunities along its quiet stretches. It is a favorite for locals who appreciate both its accessibility and its immersion in nature.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses some of the most iconic hiking experiences across the state, from rolling inland forests to dramatic lakefront vistas. Trails such as the Manistee River Trail, Empire Bluffs, and Escarpment Trail in the Porcupine Mountains provide a range of scenic beauty and challenging adventures. With its varied landscapes, Michigan delivers memorable hikes for everyone from beginners to seasoned trekkers.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SAND DUNES AND BEACHES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking features some of the state's most breathtaking treks along the Great Lakes, where sandy beaches meet forested dunes. Popular routes include the Empire Bluffs Trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes and the Chapel-Basin Loop at Pictured Rocks, each offering stunning lake views and unique coastal ecosystems. These shoreline trails are especially popular for their sunset vistas, cool breezes, and easy beach access.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are trails prized for seclusion, wildlife encounters, and tranquil forest beauty. Off-the-beaten-path destinations like Estivant Pines Wilderness Nature Sanctuary and the Iron Belle Trail offer immersive experiences far from crowds, appealing to hikers seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. These hidden spots are ideal for quiet walks, bird watching, and reflection.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE VISTAS
Michigan Autumn Hiking is renowned for its spectacular displays of fall color, with vibrant forests and crisp air attracting hikers throughout the state. Trails in places like Porcupine Mountains, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, and local recreation areas provide breathtaking backdrops of brilliant reds, golds, and oranges. From short walks to all-day excursions, Michigan's autumn trails showcase nature's seasonal beauty at its finest.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS ADVENTURE LAND
Ottawa National Forest, headquartered in Ironwood, covers nearly one million acres of pristine forestland in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula. Hikers can explore a vast network of trails featuring waterfalls, remote lakes, and old-growth pine stands, with the North Country Trail passing through the heart of the forest. Its rugged terrain and peaceful wilderness offer a true adventure for those seeking Michigan's wild side.