Clawson MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Clawson, Michigan.
1. Clinton River Trail
RIVERFRONT PATHWAY
Clinton River Trail offers an accessible multi-use pathway winding through the heart of Rochester, connecting walkers and cyclists with scenic river views and tree-lined corridors. The gentle grades and multiple access points make it a convenient option for families and recreational hikers. Users can enjoy both urban landscapes and pockets of natural beauty along the trail.
2. Stony Creek Metropark Trails
SCENIC WOODLAND LOOPS
Stony Creek Metropark Trails span varied terrain with lakeside views, dense forests, and meadows teeming with wildlife. Numerous interconnected loops accommodate hikers of all skill levels, offering both peaceful solitude and active recreation. The park is particularly popular in autumn when foliage colors add to the visual appeal.
3. Paint Creek Trail
RAIL TRAIL EXPERIENCE
Paint Creek Trail is Michigan's first rail-to-trail project, stretching over 8 miles through woods, wetlands, and gentle hills. Hikers are treated to consistent shade, creekside vistas, and encounters with local birds and deer. Its crushed limestone path is well-loved by families and those seeking a leisurely stroll.
4. West Bloomfield Trail
NATURE CORRIDOR WALK
West Bloomfield Trail traverses scenic wetlands, forests, and suburban neighborhoods, creating a tranquil escape for urban hikers. The wide, flat pathway welcomes walkers, cyclists, and runners, making it ideal for multi-generational outings. Birdwatchers often delight in spotting herons, ducks, and songbirds along the marshes.
5. Dodge #4 State Park Trail
LAKESIDE NATURE ROUTE
Dodge #4 State Park Trail meanders along the shores of Cass Lake, offering relaxing water views and casual hiking opportunities. The short, flat trail is family-friendly and includes picnic spots as well as opportunities for fishing and swimming. Wildflowers and tall oaks provide a picturesque backdrop, especially in late spring and summer.
6. Bald Mountain Recreation Area Trails
HILLY WOODLAND PATHS
Bald Mountain Recreation Area boasts a network of trails through rolling hills, lakes, and mixed forests. The terrain is more challenging, appealing to hikers in search of elevation changes and rustic beauty. With both short loops and longer treks, it's a destination for explorers who enjoy wildlife and peaceful woods.
7. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
ALL-SEASON FOREST TRAIL
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail weaves through quiet forests, providing a refreshing experience for both hikers in summer and skiers in winter. The moderate length allows for a satisfying day hike, with multiple loops catering to varying endurance levels. Nature lovers appreciate wildflower blooms and bird activity throughout the year.
8. Bicentennial Park Pathway
COMMUNITY PARK WALK
Bicentennial Park Pathway, located in Southfield, provides an easy paved walking and biking trail through manicured parkland and recreational facilities. The path is popular for morning jogs, family outings, and casual strolls with ample shady benches and picnic tables. Seasonal blooms and open spaces make it a lively community spot.
9. Black Creek Nature Trail
RIPARIAN HABITAT JOURNEY
Black Creek Nature Trail follows the meandering Black Creek through woodlands and wetlands, offering hikers a chance to observe herons and turtles in their natural environment. The mostly flat path is suitable for all ages, with shaded stretches and scenic bridges. Interpretive signs along the way highlight the area's flora and fauna.
10. Jailhouse Trail
LONG WOODED TREK
Jailhouse Trail is a 4-mile woodland route in Brighton, ideal for hikers seeking a moderately challenging walk surrounded by mature forests. The trail features rolling terrain, quiet glens, and occasional glimpses of local wildlife. Its length and setting make it a favorite for those looking to immerse themselves in nature for a few hours.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATEWIDE TOP TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking presents a curated selection of the state's premier trails, from the sandy dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to the remote beauty of the Porcupine Mountains. Hikers can experience everything from gentle riverside paths to strenuous mountain overlooks, each revealing different facets of Michigan's diverse landscape. The state's top trails promise scenic reward for every level of adventurer.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAIL ADVENTURES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking covers some of the most breathtaking beach and coastal trails along the Great Lakes, such as the Lakeshore Trail at Pictured Rocks and the Warren Dunes State Park trails. Walkers encounter dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and waves lapping the shore, with opportunities for spectacular sunset viewing. These shoreline hikes are ideal for those seeking both lake breezes and remarkable scenery.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDERNESS TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights lesser-known trails perfect for hikers craving solitude and encounters with wildlife. Explore peaceful preserves, quiet forests, and under-the-radar nature reserves where deer, birds, and rare plants are easy to spot. These hidden paths offer a rewarding escape for adventurers who prefer the road less traveled.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE ADVENTURES
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the best trails to experience the state's vibrant fall colors, from the hardwood forests of Hartwick Pines to the bluffs of the Upper Peninsula. Trails wind through canopies painted in shades of red, orange, and gold, offering spectacular photo opportunities and crisp autumn air. Hikers flock to these routes each October for the quintessential Michigan foliage experience.
15. Ottawa National Forest
NORTHWOODS MOUNTAIN PATHS
Ottawa National Forest sprawls across the western Upper Peninsula, offering hundreds of miles of trails through pristine wilderness, old-growth pines, and cascading streams. Signature hikes include the North Country Trail section and wilderness routes to scenic waterfalls and hidden lakes. The region's remoteness, diverse habitats, and expansive vistas make it a premier destination for backcountry hiking in Michigan.