TOP 30 Best Recreational areas with hiking trails in Michigan

Ransom Lake Natural Area is a serene park and tourist attraction located at 5533 Lake Ann Road in Lake Ann, Michigan, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings of the lake. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, Ransom Lake Natural Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out or a place to explore and reconnect with nature, this institution is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Clay Cliffs Natural Area, managed by The Leelanau Conservancy, is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 4755 North Manitou Trail in Leland, Michigan. This natural area offers breathtaking views of both Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan and boasts a rare and fragile ecosystem on its sheer clay bluffs. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5 mile trail system that showcases the beauty of the hardwood forest and wildflower sites, as well as a viewing platform above the bluffs with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The area is home to nesting eagles and a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Clay Cliffs Natural Area was preserved in 2013 through a partnership with Leland Township and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, and continues to be a valuable conservation resource for the community. Visitors are reminded to appreciate the view from a safe distance and help preserve the wonders of Leelanau County by volunteering or donating funds to support the conservation efforts.

Elberta Dunes South Natural Area (EDNA) is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1200-1204 Frankfort Avenue in Frankfort, Michigan, United States. This natural area boasts beautiful sand dunes, lush vegetation, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can explore the trails, relax on the sandy beaches, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this hidden gem on the shores of the Great Lakes. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat in nature or a fun day out with family and friends, EDNA is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Little Presque Isle Day Use Area is a stunning park located on the shore of Lake Superior, just 7 miles northwest of Marquette, Michigan. This crown jewel of Lake Superior offers beautiful sand beaches, rugged shoreline cliffs, heavily timbered forests, and unmatched public views. The area is a combination of wooded dunes, swales, and bedrock lakeshore, providing a diverse and unique natural setting. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Little Presque Isle, including birdwatching, hiking, geologic exploration, nature study, and photography. Nearby camping and swimming opportunities make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park also offers hunting opportunities for those looking to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Located in Glen Arbor, Michigan, the Dunes Trail is a popular park and tourist attraction for those looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and prepare like a Park Ranger, ensuring they have the necessary supplies for a safe and enjoyable hike through the dunes. The round trip distance of the trail is 3.5 miles, which can take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on the weather and physical condition of the hiker. Along the trail, hikers will encounter a variety of vegetation including grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers that are unique to the dunes environment.

Located in Saugatuck, Michigan, the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area is a park and tourist attraction that offers a unique and diverse ecosystem for visitors to explore. Accessible from the adjacent Oval Beach Park, the natural area features hiking trails that loop through dunes, wetlands, and along the shores of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River. Visitors can enjoy scenic views and spot migratory shorebirds at the beach. The area is home to rare plant and animal species, including the prairie warbler and Blanchard’s cricket frog, making it a significant conservation site. The interdunal wetlands in the natural area are globally imperiled, making their protection crucial for the surrounding ecosystem. The historic significance of the area, including the old mouth of the Kalamazoo River and the abandoned fishing settlement of Fishtown, adds to its appeal.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Bandemer Nature Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1352 Lake Shore Drive in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This beautiful natural area offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and serene atmosphere, Bandemer Nature Area is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, this park is a must-visit destination in Ann Arbor.

Al Quaal Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 501 Poplar Street in Ishpeming, Michigan, United States. This outdoor oasis offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park also features scenic trails, a playground, and a beach area for swimming and relaxing. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Al Quaal Recreation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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.

Brennan Recreation Area is a vibrant park located at Brennan Pool Drive in Detroit, Michigan. This sprawling green space offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From picnicking and hiking to swimming and sports, there is something for everyone at Brennan Recreation Area. The park's well-maintained grounds and scenic surroundings make it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and explore, Brennan Recreation Area is the ideal spot to spend a day in nature.

Sand Lake Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Irons, Michigan, United States. The Sand Lake Campground offers shaded sites by a mixed hardwood forest, with a sandy swimming beach just beyond the trees. The campground is conveniently located near the Pine National Scenic River and several lakes, within the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as coin showers, flush toilets, and drinking water faucets, as well as private bathrooms with vanities. Sand Lake covers about 50 acres of shallow waters, surrounded by wooded areas with both shaded and open campsites. The Huron-Manistee National Forests offer a million acres of protected land, including wetlands and diverse wildlife.

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!

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 Hancock Recreation Area is a beautiful park located at 2000 Jasberg Street in Hancock, Michigan, United States. This serene and spacious park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get active with friends and family, the Hancock Recreation Area is the perfect destination for outdoor fun and relaxation. Come and explore all that this wonderful park has to offer!

Bass River Recreation Area is a beautiful park located along the Grand River in Ottawa County, Michigan. With 3.5 miles of river frontage, this park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hunting. The park features over 8 miles of trails that traverse diverse habitats, making it perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. To reach the park, simply head east on Lake Michigan Drive (M-45) from US-31 for 7 miles, then go north on 104th Avenue for 3.4 miles. Look for a gravel road on the east side of 104th Avenue.

Van Buren Trail State Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational area located in Hartford, Michigan, United States. This park offers a scenic trail for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With lush greenery, peaceful surroundings, and well-maintained trails, visitors can enjoy a relaxing day in nature. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging bike ride, Van Buren Trail State Park has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem in Southwest Michigan!

Lake Michigan College Trail is a scenic park located in Benton Harbor, Michigan, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Lake Michigan while taking advantage of various recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the lake, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled day with family and friends, Lake Michigan College Trail is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Welcome to Michigan Tech Trails Parking, your convenient and accessible parking solution located at Core Loop Eric Houck Memorial Park in beautiful Houghton, Michigan. Situated in the heart of the Upper Peninsula, our parking facility offers easy access to the renowned Michigan Tech Trails, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts, students, and visitors alike. Whether you're here to enjoy a day of hiking, biking, skiing, or simply exploring the scenic surroundings, Michigan Tech Trails Parking provides a safe and secure place to leave your vehicle. Our well-maintained parking area is designed for your convenience, offering ample space and easy access to the trailheads and recreational areas.

Welcome to Paavola Wetlands Nature Area Parking Discover the serene beauty of the Paavola Wetlands, a hidden gem located in the heart of Hancock, Michigan. Nestled at No 9, Hancock, MI 49930, our nature area offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the great outdoors.

Mason Nature Area is a peaceful and picturesque park located at 500 Franklin Street in Houghton, Michigan, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with winding trails, lush greenery, and stunning views. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply relax and unwind, Mason Nature Area provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Welcome to Chassell Ski Trails Nestled in the picturesque town of Chassell, Michigan, the Chassell Ski Trails offer a serene escape into nature, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness lovers alike. Our well-maintained park features a variety of trails for classic cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking, providing a rich experience for all ages and skill levels.

Pere Marquette State Trail is a scenic park and popular tourist attraction located at Rails to Trails Trail in Chase, Michigan, United States. This beautiful trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Pere Marquette State Trail has something for everyone to enjoy.

Three Oaks Conservation Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 8505 West Forest Lawn Road in Three Oaks, Michigan, United States. This stunning conservation area offers visitors a serene escape into nature, with lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and an abundance of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking to relax in the great outdoors or explore the natural beauty of Michigan, Three Oaks Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Michigan Eagle Family Recreation Center (MEFRC) is a picturesque campground, lodging, and park located at 6656 Garfield Avenue in Lake, Michigan, United States. Nestled in the heart of nature, MEFRC offers a peaceful retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With spacious campsites, cozy cabins, and a variety of recreational activities, guests can enjoy fishing, hiking, and picnicking in the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, MEFRC provides a welcoming atmosphere for all to relax and unwind in the great outdoors.

Ontonagon County Park Campground and Picnic Area is a serene and picturesque destination located in Marenisco, Michigan, United States. This institution offers a peaceful retreat for campers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. The campground provides a range of lodging options, including tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins for those seeking a more comfortable stay. The park features lush greenery, scenic trails, and a tranquil picnic area perfect for enjoying a meal with loved ones. Whether you're looking to relax by a campfire, explore the great outdoors, or simply unwind in a natural setting, Ontonagon County Park Campground and Picnic Area is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Welcome to the Silver Lake State Park Off-Road Vehicle Area, your ultimate destination for adventure and excitement in the heart of Mears, Michigan. Located at 8969 West Fox Road, our unique recreational area offers an unparalleled experience for off-road enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, our expansive park is renowned for its majestic sand dunes, providing an exhilarating playground for off-road vehicles. Whether you're an experienced rider or a first-time visitor, Silver Lake State Park Off-Road Vehicle Area offers a variety of trails and terrains to explore. Our well-maintained facilities ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, with designated areas for different skill levels. Bring your own vehicle or rent one nearby to traverse our breathtaking dunes and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.