Turner MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Turner, Michigan.
1. Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail
URBAN NATURE PATHWAY
Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail offers an urban escape with 17.8 miles of scenic riverfront views and wooded stretches. Visitors can walk, jog, or cycle along the trail that winds through historic Bay City neighborhoods and tranquil natural settings. The paved pathway provides easy access for all fitness levels and is popular year-round for wildlife spotting and fresh air outings.
2. Bay-Zil Rail Trail
RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
The Bay-Zil Rail Trail stretches about 7 miles, connecting the communities of Bay City and Zilwaukee through scenic woodlands and fields. Hikers and cyclists enjoy a peaceful route along the former rail corridor, with opportunities to spot birds and explore local wetlands. Well-maintained and relatively flat, this trail is ideal for a relaxed hike in mid-Michigan.
3. Forestview Natural Area Trail
QUIET FOREST WALK
Forestview Natural Area Trail offers a 0.9-mile peaceful loop through dense woods and gentle terrain near Tawas City. The trail is perfect for nature lovers seeking a short, tranquil outing among mature trees and seasonal wildflowers. Its easy access and shady canopy make it a favorite for families and beginner hikers in the region.
4. Hoist Lake Trail South
BACKCOUNTRY LAKE LOOP
Hoist Lake Trail South spans 8.2 miles through the remote hardwood forests and quiet lakes of the Mio area. Hikers encounter secluded water views, rolling hills, and the challenge of longer backcountry routes. It is highly recommended for those seeking solitude and varied wildlife in a classic north Michigan setting.
5. Frank N. Anderson Nature Trail
SHORT NATURE STROLL
Frank N. Anderson Nature Trail is a gentle 0.8-mile path near Oscoda, weaving through mixed woodlands and interpretive natural features. Its well-marked loop is accessible for all ages and abilities, offering a quick retreat into nature. The trail is popular for birdwatching and peaceful morning walks.
6. Cass City Walking Trail
VILLAGE COMMUNITY TRAIL
Cass City Walking Trail provides a 1.4-mile accessible route through parks and green spaces in the heart of Cass City. The path is favored by locals for daily exercise, leisurely strolls, and enjoying small-town Michigan scenery. The easy terrain and tree-lined sections make it a pleasant, family-friendly destination.
7. Fred Meijer Heartland Trail
LONG-DISTANCE GREENWAY
The Fred Meijer Heartland Trail stretches more than 42 miles from Greenville to Alma, traversing rural landscapes and charming townships. This rail-trail caters to hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a long, continuous journey through varied Michigan habitats. Its gentle grades, bridges, and scenic views of farmland and rivers attract visitors throughout the year.
8. Missaukee Nature Trail
WILDLIFE AND MARSHES
Missaukee Nature Trail features a mixture of forest, wetland, and open fields in the Lake City area. The trail is known for its abundance of wildlife, especially birds and deer, and offers an immersive natural experience. Its loop format and moderate length make it suitable for a morning hike or nature photography session.
9. Deer Run Trail
WOODLAND WILDLIFE LOOP
Deer Run Trail in Gladwin provides a scenic walk amid dense Michigan forests, with opportunities to spot deer and other native animals. Its trail system includes well-maintained paths and occasional interpretive signs, making it an educational as well as recreational outing. The shaded areas and gentle slopes attract both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
10. Midland to Mackinaw Trail Section: M-61 to Secord Dam
HISTORIC MULTI-USE PATH
The Midland to Mackinaw Trail Section from M-61 to Secord Dam is part of a historic multi-use route traversing mid-Michigan. This shaded segment offers hikers and cyclists wooded landscapes, water crossings, and access to quiet rural scenes. The well-signed path allows for both short explorations and extended excursions linking several communities.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATEWIDE TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most celebrated trails across the state, ranging from wild Upper Peninsula routes to scenic Lower Peninsula paths. Hikers can explore diverse environments, including ancient forests, towering dunes, and sparkling rivers, each offering unique natural beauty. These trails provide unforgettable outdoor experiences for adventurers of every skill level.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAIL EXPERIENCES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the best beach and coastal trails along the state's expansive Great Lakes shores. From sandy dunes to dramatic bluffs, these hikes offer panoramic water views and access to quiet lakeside environments. Hikers can enjoy sunrises and sunsets along the water, birdwatching, and refreshing lake breezes as they explore Michigan's famous coastline.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED TRAIL DISCOVERIES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems introduces less-traveled trails perfect for those seeking solitude and exceptional wildlife observation. These paths are tucked away in state parks, quiet forests, and nature preserves, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. Hikers can expect immersive experiences with nature, where every step reveals a new facet of Michigan's wild side.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the most spectacular trails for viewing brilliant fall colors across the state. Hikers are treated to vibrant landscapes as hardwood forests turn red, gold, and orange, making each walk a feast for the senses. Prime routes wind through hills, overlook lakes, and travel beneath canopies ablaze with seasonal beauty.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS HIKING
Ottawa National Forest offers some of Michigan's finest hiking, with over 500,000 acres of pristine woods, rivers, and waterfalls in the western Upper Peninsula. Hikers can explore miles of trails ranging from short nature walks to challenging backcountry routes amid old-growth forests. The forest is renowned for its wildlife, solitude, and opportunities for year-round adventure.