Overview
Michigan parks offer some of the most diverse hiking opportunities in the Midwest. From rugged Lake Superior cliffs and waterfall trails in the Upper Peninsula to sandy dune paths and forested inland routes in the Lower Peninsula, hikers can explore a wide range of landscapes throughout the state. Whether you're planning a short nature walk or a full-day backcountry trek, Michigan has trails for every experience level.
Upper Peninsula Trails
The Upper Peninsula is known for its dramatic scenery and remote hiking routes. Trails wind through old-growth forests, along rocky Lake Superior shorelines, and past cascading waterfalls. Parks like Pictured Rocks and the Porcupine Mountains provide some of Michigan’s most iconic hiking experiences, with sweeping overlooks and rugged terrain that feels far removed from everyday life.
Lower Peninsula Landscapes
In the Lower Peninsula, hiking trails pass through hardwood forests, rolling hills, river valleys, and expansive dune systems along Lake Michigan. Many parks offer well-maintained loop trails, interpretive paths, and scenic overlooks that make hiking accessible for families and casual walkers while still providing rewarding views.
Waterfalls, Dunes & Scenic Overlooks
Michigan hikers can experience a surprising variety of terrain, including towering sand dunes, bluff-top lake views, and some of the largest waterfalls in the eastern United States. Seasonal highlights such as fall color, spring wildflowers, and snow-covered winter trails make hiking a year-round activity across the state.
Find Your Next Trail
Whether you're chasing waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula or climbing dunes along Lake Michigan, Michigan parks offer countless trails waiting to be explored. Browse the parks below to discover trail systems, scenic overlooks, and hiking routes that match your next outdoor adventure.
Hiawatha National Forest
National Forest
Huron-Manistee National Forests
National Forest
Ottawa National Forest
National Forest
Baraga State Park
State Park
Bewabic State Park
State Park
Craig Lake State Park
State Park
Fayette Historic State Park
State Park
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
State Park
Indian Lake State Park
State Park
Lake Gogebic State Park
State Park
Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park
State Park
Mackinac Island State Park
State Park
McLain State Park
State Park
Muskallonge Lake State Park
State Park
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
State Park
Straits State Park
State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
State Park
Twin Lakes State Park
State Park
Van Riper State Park
State Park
Wells State Park
State Park
Algonac State Park
State Park
Aloha State Park
State Park
Bay City State Park
State Park
Belle Isle Park
State Park
Burt Lake State Park
State Park
Cambridge Junction Historic State Park
State Park
Cheboygan State Park
State Park
Clear Lake State Park
State Park
Dodge #4 State Park
State ParkDuck Lake State Park
State Park
Fishermans Island State Park
State Park
Grand Mere State Park
State Park
Harrisville State Park
State Park
Hartwick Pines State Park
State Park
Hayes State Park
State Park
Hoeft State Park
State Park
Hoffmaster State Park
State Park
Holland State Park
State Park
Leelanau State Park
State Park
Ludington State Park
State Park
Maybury State Park
State Park
Mears State Park
State Park
Meridian-Baseline State Park
State Park
Mitchell State Park
State Park
Muskegon State Park
State Park
Negwegon State Park
State Park
Newaygo State Park
State Park
North Higgins Lake State Park
State ParkOnaway State Park
State Park
Orchard Beach State Park
State Park
Petoskey State Park
State Park
Port Crescent State Park
State Park
Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park
State Park
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
State Park
Seven Lakes State Park
State Park
Silver Lake State Park
State Park
Sleeper State Park
State Park
Sleepy Hollow State Park
State Park
Sterling State Park
State Park
Tawas Point State Park
State Park
Van Buren State Park
State Park
Warren Dunes State Park
State Park
Warren Woods State Park
State Park
Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve
State Park
Wilderness State Park
State Park