Bay City MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Bay City, Michigan.
1. Bay City State Park (Bay City State Recreation Area)
LAKESIDE NATURE & TRAILS
Bay City State Park, also known as Bay City State Recreation Area, offers hikers beautiful wetlands, woodlands, and the Tobico Marsh Trail with two tall observation towers overlooking Lake Huron. Visitors enjoy over three miles of well-marked nature trails perfect for birdwatching and wildlife sightings year-round. The park's scenic marshes and accessible pathways make it a favorite for those seeking natural beauty right by Bay City.
2. Bay County Riverwalk/Railtrail
URBAN MEETS NATURE WALK
The Bay County Riverwalk/Railtrail is a paved trail system stretching over 17.5 miles, connecting Bay City State Park to downtown Bay City and the Saginaw River. The trail offers scenic views of marinas, historic homes, gardens, parks, and waterfront landscapes. It's ideal for both casual walkers and experienced hikers wanting to explore urban and natural sights in one outing.
3. Bangor Township Rail Trail
COASTAL WILDLIFE TRAIL
The Bangor Township Rail Trail connects the Bay City State Recreation Area with the Bay Area Rail Trail, providing direct access to scenic wetlands and diverse habitats. Hikers can immerse themselves in peaceful woodland and marsh views while spotting local birdlife and wildlife along the way. Its easy access and range of environments make it a top spot for both beginners and avid outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Hampton Township Nature Trail
FORESTED TRANQUILITY PATH
Hampton Township Nature Trail winds from Finn Road Park and Campground through tranquil woodlands, offering a peaceful escape for hikers. The trail's well-maintained paths make it accessible for all skill levels, with opportunities for wildlife observation along the way. It's a perfect spot for families and solitude-seekers looking to experience Michigan nature close to Bay City.
5. Fraser Township Rail Trail
PRAIRIE & MARSHLAND ROUTE
Fraser Township Rail Trail is a four-mile stretch that forms part of the Belle Trail, running near the Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area. The trail is known for prairie landscapes, marsh vistas, and the chance to observe migratory birds and native wildlife. Its flat, straight design makes it a pleasant and relaxing hike for all ages.
6. Saginaw Valley Rail Trail
SCENIC TREE-LINED TRAIL
The Saginaw Valley Rail Trail is a well-maintained, multi-use path winding through woodlands, fields, and rural vistas outside of Bay City. Trail markers and amenities make it easy to enjoy a long-distance hike or a quick nature walk, with plenty of shade from mature trees. It's a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy both cycling and hiking in a peaceful setting.
7. Andersen Nature Trail
PRAIRIE NATURE LOOP
Andersen Nature Trail explores a restored tallgrass prairie ecosystem within Bay City State Park, providing a unique hiking experience amid native grasses and wildflowers. The trail offers interpretive signs, gentle walking paths, and seasonal color displays. Birdwatchers and plant enthusiasts will especially enjoy the diversity on this short, educational loop.
8. Tobico Marsh Trail
WETLANDS & WILDLIFE HIKE
Tobico Marsh Trail, located inside Bay City State Park, takes hikers through one of the largest remaining freshwater coastal wetlands on the Great Lakes. Observation towers along the 3.3-mile route offer panoramic views and prime birdwatching opportunities. The peaceful marshlands and lush surroundings offer a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.
9. Ferguson Bayou Trail
BAYOU BIRDING PATH
Ferguson Bayou Trail is a beautiful riverside hike at the end of Curtis Road in Saginaw, featuring peaceful waterside paths and abundant birdlife. The trail is perfect for family outings and those who appreciate tranquil, scenic walks with opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. Its serene atmosphere makes it a cherished getaway only a short drive from Bay City.
10. Pere Marquette Rail Trail
REGIONAL RAIL TRAIL SYSTEM
The Pere Marquette Rail Trail is a popular, paved corridor that stretches for more than 30 miles between Midland and Clare, offering beautiful views of rivers, forests, and open countryside. For Bay City visitors, it's an easy day trip providing a smooth, multi-use path for hiking, biking, and skating. The trail is celebrated for its accessibility, mile markers, and variety of landscapes.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
MEANDERING COMMUNITY GREENWAY
Thomas Township Trail offers a pleasant meander through a tree farm, by local schools, and into quiet neighborhoods in suburban Saginaw County. The route is flat, well-marked, and ideal for families, runners, and walkers seeking an easy hike with lovely natural surroundings. Its community-focused design and scenic landscaping make it a standout in the Great Lakes Bay region.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
TOP TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's most renowned trails, from the forested Upper Peninsula to the scenic Lower Peninsula parks. Hikers can enjoy a diverse array of routes, including paths through pristine woods, towering dunes, and peaceful riverbanks. These trails offer memorable experiences for adventurers of all skill levels, showcasing Michigan's natural splendor.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
COASTAL & BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking celebrates the state's extensive waterfront, featuring trails that follow the sandy beaches and dramatic bluffs of the Great Lakes. These routes offer hikers breathtaking views of freshwater coastlines, historic lighthouses, and opportunities for beachcombing. Shoreline hiking is perfect for those who enjoy the calming sounds and sights of Michigan's iconic lakes.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
SECLUDED & WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems takes hikers off the beaten path to explore secluded woodlands, quiet marshes, and wildlife-rich preserves. These lesser-known trails reward visitors with solitude, excellent birdwatching, and encounters with Michigan's diverse flora and fauna. Adventurers seeking peaceful escapes and intimate nature experiences will find these gems especially rewarding.
15. Ottawa National Forest
FALL FOLIAGE TRAILS
Michigan Autumn Hiking focuses on the state's top destinations for brilliant fall color, with trails winding through hardwood forests and around vibrant lakeshores. As the leaves turn, these routes offer stunning vistas, crisp air, and the quintessential Midwest autumn experience. Hiking in Michigan during this season is perfect for photographers, families, and anyone seeking classic fall scenery.
16. Ottawa National Forest
NORTHWOODS WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula is a vast wilderness with over 500 miles of hiking trails traversing old-growth forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Hikers can experience remote, rugged paths that showcase the beauty and wildness of Michigan's Northwoods. Popular trails like the North Country Trail and the Black River Harbor pathways make this a premier destination for serious outdoor enthusiasts.