TOP 30 Best Nature trails in Michigan

Kal-Haven Trail State Park is a popular park located at 4143 10th Street North in Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States. This 33.5-mile-long trail connects Kalamazoo with South Haven and offers a scenic route for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Please note that a section of the trail will be closed from July 17, through at least early 2024 for enhancements, including resurfacing and bridge replacements. During this time, the 14-mile trail section between South Haven and Bloomingdale will be closed, while the eastern half of the trail from Bloomingdale to the 10th Street trailhead in Kalamazoo will remain open.

The West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve, located at 4655 Arrowhead Road in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan, is a 162-acre park that has been designated as an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary by the National Institute for Urban Wildlife. Situated along the West Bloomfield Trail, the preserve is home to over 100 bird species, white-tail deer, red fox, coyote, weasel, mink, and salamanders. Visitors can enjoy the sight of white trillium and yellow trout lilies carpeting the forest floor, while mature oak and hickory trees provide shade and shelter. Additionally, the preserve boasts large black walnuts and wild dogwoods, creating a diverse and vibrant ecosystem for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

The Drayton Plains Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 2125 Denby Drive in Waterford Township, Michigan. This peaceful sanctuary offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. Please note that no alcohol is allowed in or around the facility. For more information about the Nature Center, be sure to like us on Facebook.

The Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 31300 Metro Parkway in Harrison Township, Michigan, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse plant and animal life that call the park home. With scenic trails, educational exhibits, and interactive programs, the Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come discover the beauty and wonder of this natural oasis in the heart of Michigan.

Vermilion Point Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on North Vermillion Road in Paradise, Michigan, United States. This preserve offers a unique and remote experience, defined by the beauty and ever-changing moods of Lake Superior. Visitors can explore a wide sandy beach, low shore dunes, upland forest, old cranberry bog wetlands, and a stream. The land is a known habitat for the federally endangered piping plover. Please note that dogs are not allowed at this preserve from May 1 to August 15, but are permitted on leash the rest of the year. A dirt road leads to a parking area with easy access to the beach, where a marked trail is open for exploration. Protected in 2007 through a bargain sale and grants, this property was once a life-saving station built in 1876. Researchers from various organizations use the preserve to study birds and wetlands. Visitors can learn more about the plants and animals found here using the iNaturalist guide. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Vermilion Point Nature Preserve.

Pelizzari Natural Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6852 Center Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This natural area offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with scenic trails, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike, Pelizzari Natural Area provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's stunning landscape.

The Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1450 Cass Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This beautiful reserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, sparkling rivers, and diverse wildlife to explore. Whether you're looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in nature, the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the wonder of this pristine natural sanctuary in the heart of Michigan.

Maple Bay Natural Area is a serene and picturesque park located along U.S. 31 in Williamsburg, Michigan. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with stunning views of the bay and surrounding woodlands. Explore the walking trails, take in the fresh air, and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water's edge. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to connect with the great outdoors, Maple Bay Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Lewis E. Wint Nature Center is a charming park located at 9501 Sashabaw Road in the City of the Village of Clarkston, Michigan, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna through interactive exhibits, nature trails, and educational programs. With its picturesque surroundings and knowledgeable staff, the Lewis E. Wint Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Boston Pond Nature Area is a serene and picturesque park located in Boston, Michigan, United States. This nature area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to spot various wildlife species in their natural habitat. The tranquil pond provides a stunning backdrop for picnics, photography, or simply unwinding amidst the beauty of nature. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out or a place to explore the great outdoors, Boston Pond Nature Area is a must-visit tourist attraction in Michigan.

Duncan Bay Nature Preserve, located at 829 Duncan Avenue in Cheboygan, Michigan, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers a unique opportunity to explore Lake Huron shore wetlands. This diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of migratory waterfowl and other water-dependent species, making it a vital area for conservation efforts. The preserve features an easy trail and boardwalk that lead visitors to the picturesque Lake Huron shoreline, providing a peaceful and immersive experience in nature. The original purchase of the land was made in 2014, with subsequent acquisitions funded through donations and a grant from Huron Pines. Additional funding was raised to construct a boardwalk and bridge, which was completed in the summer of 2019 and dedicated on August 24th of that year.

Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park is a beautiful park located in Big Rapids, Michigan, United States. This expansive park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors. The park offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the White Pine Trail as they explore the park's lush forests and meadows. With its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park is the perfect destination for a day of adventure and relaxation.

Provin Trails is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 2900 4 Mile Road Northeast in Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States. This scenic destination offers visitors a chance to explore lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Provin Trails has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this wonderful park in the heart of Michigan.

Yankee Springs Mountain Bike Trail is a popular outdoor destination located at 2526 South Yankee Springs Road in Middleville, Michigan, United States. This park offers a variety of scenic trails for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscape while challenging themselves on the well-maintained trails. Whether you're a beginner looking for a leisurely ride or an experienced rider seeking a thrilling adventure, Yankee Springs Mountain Bike Trail has something for everyone. Come explore this exciting tourist attraction and experience the thrill of mountain biking in the heart of Michigan's natural beauty.

West Lake Nature Preserve is a stunning 110-acre wetland bog located at 9001 South Westnedge Avenue in Portage, Michigan. With 1,400 feet of frontage along West Lake, this park is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park features a bark trail that winds through a shaded lowland forest, offering visitors a peaceful and serene environment to explore. At the end of the trail, visitors can enjoy a dock promenade that provides a panoramic view of West Lake, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding nature. The preserve is located in close proximity to the City Centre, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 28700 Oakwood in Flat Rock, Michigan, United States. The park offers a serene natural setting with walking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The Nature Center is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and conservation, making it a great destination for those looking to connect with nature and learn more about the local ecosystem. Whether you're interested in hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.

Round Island Point Nature Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at Cedar Drive in Brimley, Michigan, United States. This large protected habitat in the Upper Peninsula is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, wolves, moose, and bobcats. The property is also a central flyway for migrating waterfowl and birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. While much of the preserve is challenging to access, a paved road cuts through the property, providing easy access to the lake. There are no established trails leading directly to the lake, but a 1½ mile inland trail and viewing area are accessible from the parking area.

The Hudsonville Nature Center is a serene and picturesque park located at 2700 New Holland Street in Hudsonville, Michigan, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore and connect with the natural beauty of the area. With scenic walking trails, lush greenery, and an abundance of wildlife, the Hudsonville Nature Center is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a picnic spot, or a place to observe birds and other wildlife, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Visit the Hudsonville Nature Center and experience the beauty of the great outdoors in Michigan.

Platte Plains Trail is a beautiful park located at Trail End in Honor, Michigan, United States. This scenic trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, meadows, and views of the Platte River. Perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Platte Plains Trail is a peaceful escape into nature for all outdoor enthusiasts. With its convenient location and diverse landscape, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the great outdoors in Michigan.

Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 8501 Meinert Park Road in Montague, Michigan, United States. Visitors can park at Meinert Park and walk a short distance along the beach to reach the preserve. The preserve offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area from the dunes. Trails are marked with blue blazes and offer a mix of sand, boardwalks, and stairs for hikers to explore the diverse landscape. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, including the threatened Pitcher's thistle. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and observing migratory species along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The area has a rich history, with evidence of Native American settlements and European logging activities. Flower Creek Dunes Nature Preserve is managed by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving natural land in the region.

The Muskegon Lakeshore Trail is a scenic park located in Muskegon, Michigan, United States. This beautiful trail follows the shoreline of Muskegon Lake, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, biking, and birdwatching along the well-maintained paths. The Muskegon Lakeshore Trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of the Great Lakes region.

Hawthorn Pond Natural Area is a peaceful and picturesque park located at 9876 Black River Court in Holland, Michigan, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the chance to explore and connect with nature, featuring a serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and walking trails. It is a popular tourist attraction for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Hawthorn Pond Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary is a serene park located at 4700 Pontiac Trail in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan. This beautiful sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with winding trails that meander through lush forests and tranquil wetlands. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking in this idyllic natural setting. The Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and unwind in a peaceful and serene environment.

Nankin Mills Nature Center is a serene park located at 33175 Ann Arbor Trail in Westland, Michigan. Nestled in a beautiful natural setting, this institution offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors. With walking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs, Nankin Mills Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Come explore the flora and fauna of this stunning park and experience the beauty of Michigan's natural landscape.

Nicholson Nature Center is a serene park located at 21777 Dunham Road in Clinton Township, Michigan. This peaceful oasis offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. The park is conveniently located at the rear of the County Public Works building, in the northwest corner of the parking lot. With its beautiful trails, wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Nicholson Nature Center is the perfect place to unwind and recharge in the midst of bustling city life.

Located at 2003 Perry Street in Holland, Michigan, the Kuker-Van Til Nature Preserve is a peaceful park and tourist attraction just minutes away from the bustling city. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the preserve's rolling hills and towering trees, experiencing the diverse habitats of wetlands, forests, and open areas that provide a sanctuary for birds and wildlife. The preserve protects a recovering oak forest in an area that has been heavily impacted by residential development. The mature hardwood swamp at the east end of the preserve is home to many rare plant species and serves as a natural filter for water flowing into Lake Macatawa. Efforts are ongoing to remove invasive species and establish a native oak forest in place of an old scotch pine plantation.

Stu Visser Trails is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 929 Ottawa Beach Road in Holland, Michigan, United States. This stunning natural oasis offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, Stu Visser Trails is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk in the woods or a fun day out with family and friends, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the beauty of Stu Visser Trails for yourself!

Lost Lake Nature Park is a serene and picturesque destination located in Oakland Charter Township, Michigan. This stunning park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with scenic trails, lush greenery, and a tranquil lake to explore. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors, Lost Lake Nature Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's natural beauty.

Railroad Point Natural Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3860 N. #D Long Lake Road in Traverse City, Michigan, United States. This serene natural area offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Northern Michigan, including lush forests, scenic trails, and peaceful waterfront views. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll through nature or a place to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, Railroad Point Natural Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this hidden gem in Traverse City.

The Maas Family Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 10450 Summit Avenue Northeast in Rockford, Michigan, United States. Visitors can enjoy the stunning carpet of purple lupine blooming in May and June, as well as the tall prairie grasses and wildflowers later in the summer. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including the federally-endangered Karner blue butterfly. The Land Conservancy is working to restore and expand the oak-pine barrens ecosystem on the preserve, making it a unique and important natural community in Michigan. Visitors are asked to stay on the trail to protect the delicate ecosystem and wildlife. The Maas Family Nature Preserve is a peaceful and scenic destination for hikers and bikers on the White Pine Trail, offering a chance to experience the beauty of nature in West Michigan.