Hiking Trails in Southeast Michigan – 30 Spots To Camp & Hike

Michigan is a state blessed with a wealth of natural beauty, including stunning lakeshores, rolling hills, and dense forests. One of the best ways to experience this natural beauty is by hiking through it. Fortunately, Southeast Michigan offers some of the best hiking trails in the state, many of which are located near parks where you can camp. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best hiking trails in Southeast Michigan and the parks where you can camp nearby.

Pinckney Recreation Area

The Pinckney Recreation Area is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Southeast Michigan. Located just a short drive from Ann Arbor, the park is home to more than 40 miles of hiking trails that wind through dense forests, rolling hills, and pristine wetlands. The trails at Pinckney Recreation Area are perfect for hikers of all skill levels, and there are several campgrounds within the park where you can spend the night.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Potawatomi Trail, which is a 17.4-mile loop that takes hikers through some of the most beautiful parts of the park. The trail is well-marked and features several scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. There are several campgrounds within the park, including the Pinckney Recreation Area-Rustic campground, which is located near the Potawatomi Trail and offers easy access to the hiking trail.

Waterloo Recreation Area

The Waterloo Recreation Area is one of the largest parks in Southeast Michigan, covering more than 20,000 acres of land. The park is home to a vast network of hiking trails that wind through dense forests, rolling hills, and wetlands. The Waterloo Recreation Area is also home to several campgrounds where you can spend the night.

One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, which is a 35-mile trail that runs from the Waterloo Recreation Area to the Pinckney Recreation Area. The trail is well-marked and offers hikers the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful parts of Southeast Michigan. There are several campgrounds within the park, including the Sugarloaf Lake Campground, which is located near the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail and offers easy access to the hiking trail.

Highland Recreation Area

The Highland Recreation Area is a beautiful park located just a short drive from Detroit. The park is home to more than 16 miles of hiking trails that wind through dense forests, rolling hills, and wetlands. The Highland Recreation Area is also home to several campgrounds where you can spend the night.

One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Highland Trail, which is a 16-mile loop that takes hikers through some of the most beautiful parts of the park. The trail is well-marked and offers hikers the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Southeast Michigan. There are several campgrounds within the park, including the Highland Recreation Area-Rustic campground, which is located near the Highland Trail and offers easy access to the hiking trail.

Kensington Metropark

The Kensington Metropark is one of the most popular parks in Southeast Michigan, and it’s easy to see why. The park is home to a vast network of hiking trails that wind through dense forests, rolling hills, and wetlands. The Kensington Metropark is also home to several campgrounds where you can spend the night.

One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Kensington Lake Loop Trail, which is a 8.5-mile loop that takes hikers around Kensington Lake. The trail is well-marked and offers hikers the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful parts of the park. There are several campgrounds within

The Potawatomi Trail

The Potawatomi Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Southeast Michigan. The trail is located in the Pinckney Recreation Area and stretches over 17.4 miles. The trail offers a range of terrain, from steep hills to flat sections, making it a challenging but rewarding hike. The Potawatomi Trail offers breathtaking views of Silver Lake and Crooked Lake, as well as several streams and marshes. The trail is ideal for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

The Pinckney Recreation Area offers several camping options, including modern and rustic campsites, as well as cabins and yurts. The campgrounds are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets, making it an ideal location for a weekend camping trip.

The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail

The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail is another popular hiking trail in Southeast Michigan. The trail stretches over 36.5 miles and offers a range of terrain, including hills, forests, and wetlands. The trail is located in the Waterloo Recreation Area and the Pinckney Recreation Area, making it an ideal location for a weekend camping trip.

The Waterloo Recreation Area offers several camping options, including modern and rustic campsites, as well as cabins and yurts. The campgrounds are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets, making it an ideal location for a weekend camping trip.

The Paint Creek Trail

The Paint Creek Trail is a 8.9-mile long trail that runs from Rochester to Lake Orion. The trail is located in the Paint Creek Trailway, which is a linear park that stretches for 8.9 miles. The trail offers a range of terrain, from flat sections to rolling hills, making it an ideal location for a leisurely hike.

The Paint Creek Trailway offers several camping options, including modern and rustic campsites, as well as cabins and yurts. The campgrounds are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets, making it an ideal location for a weekend camping trip.

The Huron River Trail

The Huron River Trail is a 32-mile long trail that runs from Milford to Ann Arbor. The trail is located in the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, which is a chain of 13 parks that span over 25,000 acres. The Huron River Trail offers a range of terrain, from paved sections to natural trails, making it an ideal location for a leisurely hike.

The Huron-Clinton Metroparks offer several camping options, including modern and rustic campsites, as well as cabins and yurts. The campgrounds are equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets, making it an ideal location for a weekend camping trip.

The Detroit Riverwalk

The Detroit Riverwalk is a 5.5-mile long trail that runs along the Detroit River. The trail is located in the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, which is a non-profit organization that manages the development of the Detroit riverfront. The Detroit Riverwalk offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline, as well as several parks and gardens.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a popular destination for youth group trips. The park spans over 35 miles of Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline and offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and beach activities. The park has several trails, ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has several campsites that can accommodate youth groups. The Platte River Campground is a popular destination for groups and offers a range of amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

The Pinckney Recreation Area

The Pinckney Recreation Area is a 11,000-acre park that offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has several trails, ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels. The park also has several lakes and streams, making it an ideal location for fishing and water activities.

The Pinckney Recreation Area has several campsites that can accommodate youth groups. The Bruin Lake Campground is a popular destination for groups and offers a range of amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

The Waterloo Recreation Area

The Waterloo Recreation Area is a 21,000-acre park that offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has several trails, ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels. The park also has several lakes and streams, making it an ideal location for fishing and water activities.

The Waterloo Recreation Area has several campsites that can accommodate youth groups. The Sugarloaf Campground is a popular destination for groups and offers a range of amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a 60,000-acre park that offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and skiing. The park has several trails, ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels. The park also has several lakes and streams, making it an ideal location for fishing and water activities.

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park has several campsites that can accommodate youth groups. The Union Bay Campground is a popular destination for groups and offers a range of amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

The Manistee National Forest

The Manistee National Forest is a 540,000-acre park that offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has several trails, ranging from easy to difficult, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels. The park also has several lakes and streams, making it an ideal location for fishing and water activities.

The Manistee National Forest has several campsites that can accommodate youth groups. The Lake Michigan Recreation Area is a popular destination for groups and offers a range of amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

Oak Openings Preserve Metropark

Located just 20 miles west of Toledo, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park covers over 4,000 acres and features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, savannas, and forests. The park has over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Sand Dunes Trail, which is a 2-mile loop that winds through sand dunes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park also has several other trails, including the Hiking Trail, the Mountain Bike Trail, and the Bridle Trail.

Maumee Bay State Park

Maumee Bay State Park is located just 25 miles east of Toledo and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers over 1,300 acres and features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and forests. The park has over 8 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate, making it an ideal location for hikers of all levels.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Boardwalk Trail, which is a 2-mile loop that winds through a wetland area and offers stunning views of Lake Erie.

Oak Openings Preserve Metropark

Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is located in Swanton, Ohio, just 15 miles west of Toledo. This 4,000-acre park offers a range of hiking trails, including the 7-mile Blue Trail and the 4-mile Green Trail. The park also features unique ecosystems, such as sand dunes and wetlands, and is home to several rare plant and animal species.

Wildwood Preserve Metropark

Wildwood Preserve Metropark is located in Toledo and offers over 10 miles of hiking trails. The park features a variety of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, and is home to several historic buildings and gardens. The park also offers a range of activities, including birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking.

Secor Metropark

Secor Metropark is located in Toledo and offers several hiking trails, including the 1.5-mile Lost Creek Trail and the 3.5-mile Oak Openings Trail. The park also features several unique ecosystems, such as wetlands and savannas, and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The park also offers activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

Providence Metropark

Providence Metropark is located in Grand Rapids, Ohio, just 25 miles southwest of Toledo. This park offers several hiking trails, including the 1.3-mile Towpath Trail and the 2.2-mile Slippery Elm Trail. The park also features several historic buildings, including a restored canal-era town and a covered bridge. The park also offers activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

Brighton Recreation Area

Brighton Recreation Area is located just 10 miles south of Howell and offers over 4,000 acres of hiking trails. The park features several different trails ranging in length from 1.5 miles to 18 miles, including the popular 17-mile Brighton Trail. The trails wind through a variety of terrain, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, and offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Island Lake Recreation Area

Island Lake Recreation Area is located just 12 miles east of Howell and offers over 4,000 acres of hiking trails. The park features several different trails ranging in length from 1.5 miles to 8.5 miles, including the popular 8.5-mile Hickory Ridge Trail. The trails wind through a variety of terrain, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, and offer beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and ponds.

Near Hell Michigan – Pinckney Recreation Area

Pinckney Recreation Area is located just 18 miles northeast of Howell and offers over 11,000 acres of hiking trails. The park features several different trails ranging in length from 1.5 miles to 17 miles, including the popular 17-mile Potawatomi Trail. The trails wind through a variety of terrain, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, and offer beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and rivers.

Lakelands Trail State Park

Lakelands Trail State Park is located just 5 miles east of Howell and offers over 13 miles of hiking trails. The park features a converted rail trail that winds through a variety of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and farmland. The trail is popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Hudson Mills Metropark

The Hudson Mills Metropark is located just 20 miles east of Howell and offers over 3 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful forested areas, wetlands, and along the Huron River. The park also features several campsites for overnight stays, as well as a disc golf course and a golf course.

Lansing

Lansing, Michigan is located in the heart of the state and is surrounded by beautiful natural areas that offer excellent hiking opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the top hiking trails available near Lansing:

Lake Lansing Park North

Lake Lansing Park North is located just 10 miles northeast of Lansing and offers over 5 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, around the lake, and through open meadows. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and a boat launch for fishing.

Sleepy Hollow State Park

Sleepy Hollow State Park is located just 15 miles northeast of Lansing and offers over 13 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, around Lake Ovid, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Fitzgerald Park

Fitzgerald Park is located just 5 miles west of Lansing and offers over 4 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the Grand River, and up to the top of a bluff overlooking the river. The park also features several picnic areas, a playground, and a disc golf course.

Ledges Trail at Grand Ledge

The Ledges Trail at Grand Ledge is located just 15 miles west of Lansing and offers a unique hiking experience. The trail winds through beautiful sandstone cliffs, rock formations, and wooded areas. The trail is relatively short, at just under a mile, but it is moderately difficult and offers stunning views of the Grand River valley.

Woldumar Nature Center

The Woldumar Nature Center is located just 7 miles southwest of Lansing and offers over 5 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the Grand River, and through prairies. The nature center also features several educational programs and events throughout the year.

Bay City

If you’re looking for great hiking trails near Bay City, Michigan, you’re in luck! This area offers a variety of beautiful parks and trails for hikers of all skill levels. Here are some of the top hiking trails available near Bay City:

Bay City State Park

Bay City State Park is located just a few miles from downtown Bay City and offers over 6 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the beach, and through open meadows. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and a boat launch for fishing.

Saginaw Bay Visitor Center Trail

The Saginaw Bay Visitor Center Trail is located just a few miles south of Bay City and offers over 2 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the shore of Saginaw Bay, and through open fields. The visitor center also features educational exhibits about the local flora and fauna.

Tobico Marsh

Tobico Marsh is located just 10 miles east of Bay City and offers over 4 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through a diverse wetland ecosystem, including marshes, swamps, and ponds. The marsh is home to a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and sandhill cranes.

Chippewa Nature Center

The Chippewa Nature Center is located just 20 miles west of Bay City and offers over 19 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and prairies. The center also features educational exhibits, a planetarium, and a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

Bay City Riverwalk Trail

The Bay City Riverwalk Trail is located right in the heart of downtown Bay City and offers over 3 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind along the Saginaw River, offering stunning views of the riverfront and downtown Bay City. The trail also features several picnic areas and benches for resting.

Port Huron

Port Huron, Michigan is located on the eastern shore of the state and is surrounded by beautiful natural areas that offer excellent hiking opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the top hiking trails available near Port Huron:

Lakeport State Park

Lakeport State Park is located just 10 miles north of Port Huron and offers over 2 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the beach, and through open meadows. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and a boat launch for fishing.

Fort Gratiot County Park

Fort Gratiot County Park is located just 5 miles north of Port Huron and offers over 2 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the Black River, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a playground, and a beach for swimming.

Pine River Nature Center

The Pine River Nature Center is located just 10 miles west of Port Huron and offers over 4 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and prairies. The nature center also features several educational exhibits and a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

Goodells County Park

Goodells County Park is located just 15 miles southwest of Port Huron and offers over 5 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the Belle River, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a playground, and campsites for overnight stays.

Algonac State Park

Algonac State Park is located just 20 miles south of Port Huron and offers over 8 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the St. Clair River, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Port Huron, Michigan and its surrounding areas offer a variety of beautiful parks and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. From the scenic views of Lakeport State Park to the diverse ecosystems of Pine River Nature Center, there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, grab your hiking shoes and head out to discover the natural beauty of Port Huron and its surroundings.

Adrian

Adrian, Michigan is located in the southern part of the state and offers a variety of beautiful natural areas for hiking enthusiasts to explore. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the top hiking trails available near Adrian:

Hidden Lake Gardens

Hidden Lake Gardens is located just 5 miles south of Adrian and offers over 6 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful gardens, natural areas, and open fields. The gardens also feature a variety of educational exhibits and events throughout the year.

The Kiwanis Trail

The Kiwanis Trail is located just a few miles east of Adrian and offers over 20 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along the River Raisin, and through open fields. The trail is also open to cyclists and cross-country skiers during the winter months.

W.J. Hayes State Park

W.J. Hayes State Park is located just 20 miles northeast of Adrian and offers over 5 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along Wamplers Lake, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and a boat launch for fishing.

Heritage Park

Heritage Park is located right in the heart of Adrian and offers over 2 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful gardens, natural areas, and open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a playground, and a disc golf course.

Independence Lake County Park

Independence Lake County Park is located just 30 miles northwest of Adrian and offers over 3 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along Independence Lake, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Adrian, Michigan and its surrounding areas offer a variety of beautiful parks and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. From the scenic views of W.J. Hayes State Park to the beautiful gardens of Hidden Lake Gardens, there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, grab your hiking shoes and head out to discover the natural beauty of Adrian and its surroundings.

Pontiac

Pontiac, Michigan is located in the southeastern part of the state and is surrounded by several beautiful natural areas that offer excellent hiking opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the top hiking trails available near Pontiac:

1. Bald Mountain Recreation Area

Bald Mountain Recreation Area is located just 10 miles north of Pontiac and offers over 15 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along lakes and streams, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

Pontiac Lake Recreation Area is located just 15 miles northwest of Pontiac and offers over 20 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along Pontiac Lake, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Paint Creek Trail

The Paint Creek Trail is located just 10 miles east of Pontiac and offers over 8 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind along the scenic Paint Creek and through beautiful wooded areas. The trail is also open to cyclists and cross-country skiers during the winter months.

Highland State Recreation Area

Highland State Recreation Area is located just 20 miles north of Pontiac and offers over 16 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along lakes and streams, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Indian Springs Metropark

Indian Springs Metropark is located just 15 miles east of Pontiac and offers over 6 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through beautiful wooded areas, along several small lakes, and through open fields. The park also features several picnic areas, a beach for swimming, and campsites for overnight stays.

Pontiac, Michigan and its surrounding areas offer a variety of beautiful parks and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. From the scenic views of Bald Mountain Recreation Area to the peaceful trails of Paint Creek Trail, there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, grab your hiking shoes and head out to discover the natural beauty of Pontiac and its surroundings.

Final Thoughts on Hiking in Southeast Michigan

Southeast Michigan and its neighboring areas offer many hiking trails and parks for outdoor enthusiasts. From the unique ecosystems of Oak Openings Preserve Metropark to the historic buildings of Providence Metropark, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting, these trails will provide an enjoyable and rewarding experience in your hiking travel adventures.