Top Hiking Trails in Michigan

The largest state east of the Mississippi offers thousands of miles of hiking trails that cut through everything from dense forests of scented pines and tumbling cascades to glimmering mountaintop lakes.

It may come as a surprise that the Great Lakes look even greater from some of the state’s hard-hiked vantage points. One thing is for certain – you’re going to need a decent pair of hiking boots to really grasp the natural grandeur of Michigan on foot.

1. Empire Bluff Trail

Best hike for year-round adventure
1.5 miles round trip, 30–45 minutes, easy

The Empire Bluff Trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is widely considered one of Michigan’s best hikes due to its short distance and gorgeous scenery. This easy trek affords fantastic views of Lake Michigan for relatively minimal effort—although the round trip distance is less than two miles, it does require a fair amount of dune climbing.

The bluff itself rises more than 400ft above the sandy shoreline and offers unobstructed views of the water. This year-round trail is also suitable for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing in winter, making it a great option for families and can usually be completed in under an hour.

2. Iron Belle Trail (Mackinac Island segment)

Best hike for families and accessibility
8 miles round trip, 3–4 hours, easy

The Iron Belle is the longest designated state trail in the US, traversing hundreds of municipalities and crossing through 48 counties in Michigan. It runs through a series of existing trails, creating one long hike that extends more than 2000 miles from the far western tip of the Upper Peninsula to Belle Isle in Detroit.

This segment on Mackinac Island is family-friendly, paved, and wheelchair accessible. The path runs around the entirety of the island, showcasing the blue-green waters of Lake Huron and charming 19th-century buildings.

3. Sugarloaf Mountain

Best hike in the Upper Peninsula
1 mile round trip, 20–30 minutes, easy

Sugarloaf Mountain offers a relatively quick and easy hike that rewards trekkers with stunning views in the Upper Peninsula. The peak is roughly 1000ft above sea level, allowing for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Superior and beyond.

Hikers can choose between a steeper path for those looking to ascend quickly and a more gradual trail that takes a bit longer to summit. While the views are the main attraction, the journey through the forest canopy during the hike is noteworthy as well.

4. Au Sable River Foot Trail

Best hike for nature
3.2 miles round trip, 1–2 hours, moderate

The Au Sable River Foot Trail is set in the heart of northern Michigan in 49 acres of pristine forest known as Hartwick Pines. This area is unique, particularly in a state with a history of extensive logging.

Hikers can now enjoy the extraordinary pines via the Au Sable River Foot Trail, which crosses the river twice. For an additional experience, the leisurely Old Growth Forest Trail offers a journey to a reconstructed logging camp now serving as an educational center.

5. North Country Scenic Trail

Best long-distance hike
Lengths and durations vary, moderate

The Michigan section of the North Country Scenic Trail is legendary. The entire hike runs for some 4700 miles, spanning eight states from North Dakota to Vermont, with plenty of mileage available within Michigan.

This trail traverses east to west across the Upper Peninsula for a remarkable 550 miles. Furthermore, it crosses the Mackinac Bridge before continuing for another 600 miles to Ohio. Numerous camping options are available, allowing hikers to fully enjoy the natural beauty along the way.

6. Escarpment Trail

Best hike for scenery
8.1 miles round trip, 4–5 hours, moderate

Known as the “crown jewel of hikes,” the Escarpment Trail in Upper Michigan is one of the most scenic hikes in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. This dog-friendly trail offers stunning views and diverse terrain.

Trekkers will be rewarded with gorgeous vistas of the sugar maple-covered valley and Lake of the Clouds. While the terrain can be rugged for the first mile, it eventually levels off at the summit, providing breathtaking landscapes.

7. Pyramid Point Loop Trail

Best lakeside hike
3 miles round trip, 2 hours, moderate to challenging

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features more than 100 miles of hiking trails, but Pyramid Point stands out as the most scenic route. This hike leads to a dune offering spectacular views of Lake Michigan.

This trek traverses wildflower meadows and forests of paper birch, providing diversity in scenery. However, the steep ascent can be challenging, so be prepared for a workout.

8. Dragon Trail

Best hike in the Lower Peninsula
Lengths and durations vary, challenging

The Dragon Trail in the Eastern Lower Peninsula is unique as it expands continuously. The trail features numerous scenic overlooks and unique structures for hikers to enjoy while prioritizing environmental protection.

Hikers gain access to lush forests, parks, and several campgrounds along the way, making it a diverse and enriching experience.

9. Rock Harbor Trail

Best hike in a national park
10.7 miles one way, duration varies, challenging

Isle Royale National Park is one of the least visited national parks but is immensely popular among repeat visitors. Accessible only by private watercraft, seaplane, or ferry, the park features 165 miles of trails. The Rock Harbor Trail is ideal for hikers wanting a shorter trek or easing into a longer expedition.

This point-to-point trail offers views of Mott Island and balances elevation gain and loss, providing a rugged and wild experience.