St Johns MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near St Johns, Michigan.
1. Fred Meijer CIS Trail
RAIL TRAIL ADVENTURE
The Fred Meijer CIS Trail is a popular multi-use rail trail that passes through St. Johns, connecting several small towns in the region. Visitors enjoy an easy, mostly flat path ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting as it winds through rural farmland and woodlands. Numerous trailheads and amenities make it accessible for both locals and visitors seeking a scenic Michigan outing.
2. Sleepy Hollow State Park
SCENIC STATE PARK HIKING
Sleepy Hollow State Park offers over 16 miles of hiking trails, looping through woods, along Lake Ovid, and across meadows. The park is known for its rich birdlife, wildflowers, and tranquil settings, making it ideal for nature observation and peaceful walks. Trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for both casual hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Maple River State Game Area
WILDLIFE AND RIVER HIKES
The Maple River State Game Area offers hikers access to miles of rustic trails weaving through wetlands, woods, and along the picturesque Maple River. This area is perfect for those seeking solitude and spotting migratory birds, deer, and other local wildlife. The natural beauty and serenity here make it a favorite for seasoned hikers and nature photographers alike.
4. Joe Prance Nature Trail and Butterfly Gardens
NATURE TRAIL EXPERIENCE
Joe Prance Nature Trail and Butterfly Gardens offers a short, half-mile loop ideal for families and those wanting a gentle stroll. The trail features interpretive signs, native wildflower plots, and a butterfly garden, providing educational opportunities along with natural beauty. This spot is well-suited for enjoying a peaceful walk close to the heart of St. Johns.
5. Potawatomi Trail
CLASSIC MICHIGAN HIKING
The Potawatomi Trail is one of Michigan's best-known loop hikes, located in Pinckney Recreation Area. This 17.5-mile path leads hikers through mature forests, rolling hills, and alongside several lakes. Its long distance and diverse scenery attract both weekend backpackers and day hikers looking for a challenging adventure.
6. Seidman Park Outside Loop
FOREST PARK LOOP
Seidman Park's Outside Loop in Ada offers a 4.5-mile hike through rolling woodlands and quiet wetlands. The well-marked trail system features a variety of environments, from mature hardwood stands to lush lowlands. It's an excellent choice for hikers wanting a scenic and varied walk close to Grand Rapids.
7. Clinton Lakes County Park
LAKESIDE TRAIL SYSTEM
Clinton Lakes County Park features a growing system of trails that loop around several picturesque lakes and through reclaimed woodlands and meadows. The park is popular with birdwatchers and families, offering gentle trails and plenty of opportunities for picnics and relaxation near the water. Its proximity to St. Johns makes it a convenient spot for outdoor recreation.
8. Saginaw Valley Rail Trail
RAIL TRAIL CYCLING AND HIKING
The Saginaw Valley Rail Trail provides over 9 miles of smooth, flat hiking and cycling paths through woodlands, wetlands, and farmlands. Amenities such as rest stops and interpretive signs enhance the experience, while wildlife sightings are common along the way. Its well-maintained surface makes it ideal for all skill levels.
9. Hawk Island Park
URBAN GREEN ESCAPE
Hawk Island Park in Lansing offers a beautiful mix of paved and natural trails encircling a scenic lake and passing through wooded groves. The area is popular for walking, running, and family outings, with plenty of amenities and playgrounds. It's a great spot for an easy, enjoyable outing in a city setting.
10. Potter Park and Zoo Trails
FAMILY-FRIENDLY URBAN TRAIL
Potter Park and Zoo features paved walking paths that meander through parkland and along the Red Cedar River. Visitors can combine a stroll with a trip to the zoo or explore the riverside scenery on connecting trails. The location is ideal for families and anyone seeking a leisurely outdoor adventure in Lansing.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the premier trails across Michigan, from the forested Upper Peninsula to the hills of the Lower Peninsula. These trails showcase diverse terrain, such as waterfalls, sand dunes, lakeshores, and hardwood forests, making Michigan a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Options range from gentle walks to rugged backcountry treks, ensuring something for hikers of all abilities.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAILS & VISTAS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the dramatic scenery and varied trails found along the state's Great Lakes coastlines. Numerous state parks and protected areas offer beach walks, dune climbs, and cliffside views over Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. These routes are ideal for hikers seeking sun, sand, and the soothing sounds of the waves.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECRET SPOTS AND WILDLIFE
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems include secluded trails and preserves that offer a peaceful escape from crowds and exceptional opportunities to observe wildlife. These less-traveled paths often wind through old-growth forests, remote wetlands, and quiet glades where deer, birds, and other fauna thrive. They are perfect for hikers seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with Michigan's wild places.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking offers unforgettable experiences with vibrant fall foliage, crisp air, and scenic overlooks across the state. Trails wind through hardwood forests ablaze with red, orange, and yellow leaves, peaking from late September through October. These routes are ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to enjoy the changing seasons in the Midwest.
15. Ottawa National Forest
NORTHWOODS WILDERNESS HIKING
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula features over 500,000 acres of lakes, rivers, and dense woodlands with a vast network of hiking trails. Visitors will discover remote waterfalls, old-growth hemlocks, and scenic overlooks, offering chances for backcountry solitude and wildlife encounters. The forest is a premier destination for adventure seekers and those craving wilderness experiences.