Shepherd MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Shepherd, Michigan.
1. Manistee River Trail
SCENIC FOREST VIEWS
Manistee River Trail features picturesque river views, dramatic bluffs, and hardwood forests in the heart of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The well-marked trail offers a 12-mile loop with multiple access points, perfect for both day hikers and backpackers. Hikers enjoy frequent wildlife sightings and opportunities to camp near the water.
2. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
ALL-SEASON ADVENTURE
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail offers a gently rolling 5.1-mile path through scenic hardwoods and pines, providing a peaceful escape close to Shepherd. The trail is designed for hiking in the warmer months and cross-country skiing in winter, making it popular year-round. Trail maps and well-marked paths ensure an enjoyable visit for outdoor enthusiasts at any skill level.
3. Shields Trail
WOODED LOCAL PATH
Shields Trail offers a 4.7-mile hiking route winding through forested areas near Shepherd. The trail features moderate elevation changes, making it an accessible option for hikers seeking a quiet walk surrounded by nature. Local wildlife and peaceful woods add to the charm of this nearby gem.
4. Forestview Natural Area Trail
PEACEFUL NATURE WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail is a short, 0.9-mile loop ideal for families or those looking for a quick immersion in nature. The easy-to-navigate trail passes through forest and wetland habitats, offering chances to spot birds and small wildlife. Benches along the way provide restful spots to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
5. Delta East/West Trail
LOOP WITH OPEN VIEWS
Delta East/West Trail features a gentle 2-mile loop close to Shepherd, passing through open meadows and light woodland. The level terrain makes it accessible for all ages and abilities, and it is popular for both walking and jogging. Seasonal wildflowers line the trail, creating a colorful landscape in spring and summer.
6. Beech Tree Loop
SHORT WOODLAND LOOP
Beech Tree Loop is a peaceful, easy 0.9-mile hike nestled in mature beech forests near Shepherd. The level trail offers a shaded, cool walk during the warmer months. Interpretive signs along the loop educate hikers about local tree and plant species.
7. Wakazoo Trail (aka Northwest Trail)
LONG FOREST EXCURSION
Wakazoo Trail stretches for 11.4 miles through diverse woodlands and rolling terrain, offering a more challenging adventure for seasoned hikers. The trail provides excellent solitude and opportunities for immersion in Michigan's natural beauty. Trailheads and signage help guide visitors through the extensive route.
8. Potawatomi Trail
LAKE VIEWS AND HILLS
Potawatomi Trail is a renowned 17.5-mile loop in the Pinckney Recreation Area, famous for its hilly sections and beautiful lake overlooks. Hikers enjoy a mix of hardwoods, wetlands, and open meadows along the trail. The trail is well-maintained, attracting backpackers, day hikers, and trail runners.
9. Pickerel Lake Loop
LAKESIDE WILDLIFE TRAIL
Pickerel Lake Loop offers tranquil views of Pickerel Lake along a 3.4-mile natural surface path in Rockford. The trail circles wetlands and forest, making it excellent for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. Well-placed boardwalks provide easy access over marshy areas and maintain the trail's pristine setting.
10. Pere Marquette Rail-Trail
POPULAR RAIL-TRAIL ROUTE
Pere Marquette Rail-Trail is a flat, multi-use trail spanning 30 miles between Midland and Clare, perfect for hiking, running, and biking. The paved surface and gentle grades make it a favorite for families and those seeking an accessible outdoor experience. The scenic route passes through forests, farmland, and small towns, offering plenty of amenities and rest stops.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATEWIDE HIKING
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most outstanding trails across Michigan, from rugged wilderness routes to accessible park paths. Hikers can experience everything from vast hardwood forests and sparkling rivers to rolling sand dunes. The diversity and quality of the state's trail systems make Michigan a premier destination for all types of hikers.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL AND BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking showcases the best beach and coastal trails along the Great Lakes, offering dramatic bluff-top walks and sandy shorelines. Trails wind through dune landscapes, beach grass, and forested overlooks with sweeping lake vistas. These hikes combine natural beauty with opportunities for beachcombing, birdwatching, and relaxation by the water.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE WALKS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights lesser-known trails that provide solitude, wildlife observation, and immersive nature experiences. These out-of-the-way paths often traverse state forests, nature preserves, and remote parks where encounters with deer, birds, and other wildlife are common. Adventurers seeking peace and a break from crowds will appreciate these tranquil destinations.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the most scenic trails for viewing vibrant fall foliage, from maple-covered hills to aspen-lined pathways. Every autumn, the state's forests come alive with reds, oranges, and golds, creating a magical backdrop for hikers. These routes offer spectacular overlooks, crisp air, and photographic opportunities throughout the fall season.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS TRAIL SYSTEM
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula hosts more than 500 miles of trails through deep woods, rushing rivers, and remote lakes. Hiking options range from short interpretive paths to challenging backcountry routes, with abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing. The forest's vast expanse and varied terrain make it a paradise for anyone seeking true wilderness hiking.