Calumet MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Calumet, Michigan.
1. Black Creek Nature Sanctuary
SHORELINE AND FOREST WALK
Black Creek Nature Sanctuary features 4.8 miles of gentle trails winding through sand dunes, mixed forests, and scenic wetlands. Hikers are rewarded with a picturesque lagoon where Black Creek and Hills Creek meet, plus access to 1,500 feet of stunning Lake Superior shoreline. Wildlife sightings, including beavers and deer, are common along this peaceful hike.
2. Swedetown Trails
MULTI-SEASON OUTDOOR AREA
Swedetown Trails offers over 25 miles of singletrack trails for hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, surrounded by quiet, forested terrain. The expansive area is well-suited for families and visitors of all skill levels, providing year-round recreation. In summer, the peaceful woods and rolling hills make it a favorite spot for nature lovers seeking variety and tranquility.
3. Bill Nicholls Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL ADVENTURE
The Bill Nicholls Trail stretches for 41 miles through Michigan's scenic Copper Country, following the path of a former railroad line. Travelers pass by historic mining sites, woodlands, and opportunities to view area wildlife. The varied surfaces and occasional rugged conditions offer a rewarding challenge for dedicated hikers seeking a taste of the region's industrial heritage.
4. Bear Paw Path
SECLUDED LAKE VIEWS
Bear Paw Path is a 3.6-mile out-and-back trail near Gratiot Lake, offering quiet woodlands and captivating views of the water. The moderate route immerses hikers in peaceful wilderness, with occasional wildlife sightings. Its remote setting makes it an ideal escape for those looking to avoid crowds and experience the area's natural beauty.
5. Little Gratiot River Trail
RIVER AND FOREST PATH
Little Gratiot River Trail is a short but rewarding 0.5-mile trail that meanders through serene forests to the banks of the Gratiot River. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for birdwatching. The trail's gentle terrain ensures accessibility for hikers of all ages seeking a quick, scenic outing.
6. Cliff View Trail at Mount Bohemia
SCENIC OVERLOOK HIKE
Cliff View Trail winds through lush forests at Mount Bohemia, leading to a stunning vista of the Keweenaw Peninsula. The hike, which usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, is easy to moderate and suitable for most hikers. From the top, panoramic views of forests, cliffs, and Lake Superior make it a must-see for visitors in the area.
7. Greenstone Ridge Trail
ISLE ROYALE BACKBONE
The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a legendary long-distance hike traversing the heart of Isle Royale National Park. The trail offers rugged terrain, sweeping vistas, and opportunities to encounter moose and other wildlife in a true wilderness setting. Hikers tackle challenging distances over several days, making it one of Michigan's premier backpacking experiences.
8. Gay-Mohawk Trail
HERITAGE RAILROAD ROUTE
The Gay-Mohawk Trail is a multi-use path that follows the route of an old railroad through woodlands, wetlands, and scenic open spaces. Its relatively flat surface makes it accessible for easy hiking and biking between the historic communities of Gay and Mohawk. Along the way, hikers can take in remnants of the region's copper mining legacy.
9. Gratiot Lake Overlook Nature Sanctuary
LAKE OVERLOOK ADVENTURE
Gratiot Lake Overlook Nature Sanctuary offers panoramic views of Gratiot Lake from an elevated vantage point reached by a forested trail. The sanctuary is noted for its varied plant life and quiet surroundings, attracting hikers looking for both scenery and solitude. This preserve is a hidden treasure for those interested in nature photography and birdwatching.
10. Conglomerate Falls Trail
WATERFALL AND WOODS WALK
Conglomerate Falls Trail leads visitors through forested terrain to the impressive Conglomerate Falls on the Eagle River. The trail is moderately challenging, with paths descending to river level for up-close views of the cascading water. This is a favorite destination for hikers who enjoy tranquil surroundings and the soothing sound of falling water.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP-RATED PATHS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking showcases the state's premier trails, ranging from rugged wilderness hikes to scenic shoreline paths and family-friendly walks. Michigan offers something for every adventurer, from the remote landscapes of Isle Royale to the towering dunes along the Great Lakes and forested U.P. trails. Hikers consistently praise Michigan for its diversity, accessibility, and breathtaking natural backdrops.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's renowned lakefront trails, with routes passing sandy beaches, high bluffs, and wind-sculpted dunes. Hikers follow the edges of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron for unforgettable views and fresh breezes. These trails are ideal for those seeking a blend of relaxation, water vistas, and the soothing sounds of the waves.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems directs adventurous hikers to the state's most tranquil and under-the-radar trails, often in nature preserves or state parks. These hidden paths provide solitude, abundant wildlife viewing, and unique landscapes far from the crowds. Nature lovers treasure these locations for a chance to experience Michigan's quieter side in peaceful, unspoiled settings.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TREKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking guides hikers to the best trails for viewing the state's spectacular fall foliage, with forests ablaze in red, orange, and gold. The crisp air and vibrant canopy make autumn an unmissable season for outdoor exploration across both peninsulas. These trails offer prime opportunities for photography and immersion in Michigan's dazzling autumn landscapes.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
Ottawa National Forest spans nearly one million acres of pristine wilderness and hosts hundreds of miles of trails through old-growth woods, along rivers, and past numerous lakes. Hikers enjoy diverse experiences, from short walks to multi-day backcountry treks, with rich opportunities for wildlife observation and solitude. The forest's varied terrain makes it a cornerstone destination for hiking in the western Upper Peninsula.