Walled Lake MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Walled Lake, Michigan.
1. Walled Lake Trail
SCENIC LAKE PATHWAY
Walled Lake Trail offers a peaceful loop around the lake, providing scenic views of the water and surrounding parkland. The trail is popular with walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts looking for an easy stroll close to downtown. With convenient access points and gentle terrain, it's ideal for families and visitors looking for a relaxing outdoor escape.
2. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
FORESTED MULTI-USE LOOP
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail features a 5.1-mile loop through densely wooded terrain, popular for both hiking and cross-country skiing. The peaceful setting and well-maintained paths are perfect for exploring Michigan's diverse flora and fauna. The trail's rolling hills offer a moderate challenge for hikers seeking a half-day adventure.
3. Shields Trail
WOODLAND FAMILY TRAIL
Shields Trail is a 4.7-mile pathway that weaves through quiet forest and open meadows. This trail is a local favorite for families and casual hikers thanks to its manageable length and variety of landscapes. Wildlife sightings are common along the route, making every hike a unique experience.
4. River Trail
RIVERSIDE NATURE WALK
River Trail offers a short but scenic 0.9-mile trail along the river, providing soothing water views and shady spots for relaxation. It's a go-to destination for a brief nature escape or birdwatching outing. The gentle path is accessible to most skill levels and ideal for a quick stroll in the fresh air.
5. Bluffs Nature Trail
HILLTOP VISTAS
Bluffs Nature Trail spans 1.1 miles and features gentle climbs that reward hikers with elevated views of the surrounding woodlands. The trail's bluff-top setting and lush foliage offer a tranquil escape from suburban life. Hikers enjoy spotting deer and songbirds while traversing the well-marked path.
6. Orange Loop Trail
CHALLENGING WOODED ROUTE
Orange Loop Trail is a 7.3-mile loop designed for more experienced hikers seeking a longer trek through rolling terrain and dense forests. The loop's varied topography and occasional steep sections offer a rewarding challenge with plenty of natural beauty. Its length and seclusion make it a favorite for locals training for longer hikes.
7. Applewood Trail
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR PATH
Applewood Trail serves as a connector in the local trail network and is perfect for residents seeking a quick and accessible walk. The trail winds through residential neighborhoods and parks, offering shaded stretches and spots for picnics. It's a flat, easy path for casual strolls or getting between other parks and trails.
8. Lakeshore Park Trails
VARIED PARKLAND HIKES
Lakeshore Park Trails offer an extensive network through meadows, woods, and lakeshores within Novi's largest park. The diverse routes cater to both beginners and more avid hikers, with options ranging from gentle walks to more challenging circuits. The park is also known for its mountain biking trails and family-friendly atmosphere.
9. Proud Lake Recreation Area
EXPANSIVE STATE PARK EXPERIENCE
Proud Lake Recreation Area features over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind around lakes, rivers, and marshlands in a pristine natural setting. The area is beloved by hikers, birdwatchers, and paddlers for its diverse habitats and wildlife. With well-marked trails, Proud Lake suits both leisurely day-trippers and serious outdoor enthusiasts.
10. West Bloomfield Trail
URBAN GREENWAY WALK
West Bloomfield Trail is a popular multi-use rail trail stretching through suburban neighborhoods, wetlands, and woodlands. The flat, paved path is ideal for walking, running, and biking, making it accessible for all ages and abilities. Regularly maintained and featuring plenty of shade, it's a favorite route for residents seeking convenient nature access.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's most exceptional trails, from the rugged Porcupine Mountains to the serene pathways of the Lower Peninsula. These trails showcase diverse landscapes including old-growth forests, glacial lakes, dunes, and dramatic vistas. Each season brings new experiences, making Michigan a premier destination for hikers of all skill levels.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking invites adventurers to explore the state's famed freshwater coastline, featuring beaches, bluffs, and scenic dune walks. Trails along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior provide spectacular water views and opportunities for beachcombing and sunset hikes. These coastal routes are perfect for those seeking picturesque settings and the soothing sounds of the Great Lakes.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURAL ESCAPES
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems showcases off-the-beaten-path trails ideal for solitude and wildlife observation. These lesser-known routes wind through quiet forests, remote wetlands, and pristine preserves where hikers may encounter deer, foxes, or rare birds. Enjoy escaping the crowds while exploring some of the most peaceful spots in the state.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ADVENTURES
Michigan Autumn Hiking offers some of the best leaf-peeping opportunities in the Midwest, with vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold. From the Upper Peninsula to southern woodlands, numerous trails provide striking vistas under colorful canopies. Autumn in Michigan is a magical time for hikers to experience crisp air and breathtaking scenery.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS TRAIL SYSTEM
Ottawa National Forest encompasses over 500,000 acres of wilderness, offering an extensive network of hiking trails through old-growth forests and past countless lakes and rivers. The forest is renowned for its natural beauty, solitude, and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular trails like the North Country National Scenic Trail provide multi-day hiking and true backcountry adventure.