Clifford MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Clifford, Michigan.
1. Applewood Trail
SCENIC LOCAL PATHWAY
Applewood Trail offers a peaceful hiking experience right in Clifford, making it ideal for walkers and cyclists alike. The 1.8-mile path meanders through quiet scenery and is especially lovely during the fall when the foliage begins to change. Trail visitors can enjoy a well-maintained surface and convenient access, making it a must-see spot for locals and visitors.
2. Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail
RIVERFRONT URBAN TRAIL
Bay County Riverwalk/Bangor Rail Trail spans 17.8 miles along the Saginaw River, offering scenic views and a mix of natural and urban environments. This well-developed trail is popular for both leisurely hikes and longer cycling journeys. Trailheads are easily accessible, and the route features amenities such as benches and interpretive signs.
3. Bay-Zil Rail Trail
PEACEFUL RAIL TRAIL
The Bay-Zil Rail Trail offers a serene 7-mile stretch ideal for hikers looking to escape into a quieter landscape just outside Clifford. Surrounded by fields and woods, the trail provides opportunities for birdwatching and leisurely strolls. Its crushed stone surface is well-kept and suited for both walking and biking.
4. Vassar Rail Trail
RURAL GREEN CORRIDOR
The Vassar Rail Trail weaves through small-town Michigan countryside with a gently rolling path flanked by trees and wildflowers. Stretching for several miles, it is perfect for those seeking a peaceful walk or an invigorating bike ride. The trail captures the rural charm of the Vassar area while remaining convenient to Clifford.
5. Saginaw Valley Rail Trail
EXPANSIVE NATURE ROUTE
The Saginaw Valley Rail Trail boasts a span of over 9 miles, leading hikers through forests, fields, and farmland. Its distance and diversity make it a favorite for both short walks and all-day hiking adventures. Wildlife viewing opportunities and rest areas add to the trail's appeal.
6. Holly Recreation Area
WOODLAND PARK EXPERIENCE
Holly Recreation Area is a regional favorite, featuring multiple hiking trails that wind through dense woods, around lakes, and across rolling hills. This state-managed park provides a classic Michigan outdoor experience, accommodating everyone from beginner hikers to seasoned trekkers. The area is also popular for camping, making it a well-rounded destination near Clifford.
7. Clifford Fields Walking Trail
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Clifford Fields Walking Trail is a well-loved community route situated in Perry, Michigan, just a short drive from Clifford. Its 1.4-mile loop provides a gentle, accessible walk through grassy open space, perfect for families and casual walkers. The trail's easy elevation and peaceful surroundings make it a favorite for daily strolls.
8. Orchard Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PATHWAY
Orchard Trail runs through Lake Orion, delivering a pleasant, tree-lined escape for hikers and cyclists. The well-maintained crushed stone surface and gently rolling terrain make it suitable for all ages. Visitors often pause to enjoy cider mills and small-town charm along the way.
9. Rochester Park Trail
URBAN PARK WALKWAY
Rochester Park Trail is a bustling, multi-use path that starts in downtown Rochester and extends into the surrounding green spaces. With benches, play areas, and easy access to local shops, it offers a vibrant combination of nature and urban convenience. The trail is especially popular on weekends and during festivals.
10. Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
HIKER'S WOODED RETREAT
Pontiac Lake Recreation Area provides miles of interconnected trails winding through varied terrain, including forest, wetlands, and lakeshore. This park is a haven for hikers seeking longer loops, challenging elevation changes, and glimpses of Michigan wildlife. Its natural beauty attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATE'S TOP TRAIL PICKS
Best Michigan Hiking refers to the premier trails and destinations across the state, encompassing scenic forests, sparkling lakes, and rugged coastal routes. Hikers can experience everything from urban riverwalks to remote wilderness treks, each offering a unique slice of Michigan's natural beauty. These trails are celebrated for their accessibility, diversity, and year-round appeal.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH & COASTAL PATHS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's best beach and coastal trails, from the shores of Lake Michigan to Lake Superior's dramatic bluffs. Walkers and hikers can explore sandy beaches, dune landscapes, and panoramic water views along well-marked routes. These hikes are perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and the soothing sounds of the Great Lakes.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are secluded trails ideal for hikers who value solitude and wildlife observation. These lesser-known routes take travelers deep into forests, quiet wetlands, and remote preserves where nature thrives undisturbed. They offer unique opportunities to encounter Michigan's flora and fauna away from the crowds.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features trails famous for their spectacular fall foliage displays, attracting hikers with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows each year. Paths wind through hardwood forests and rolling hills, providing stunning vantage points for leaf peeping and photography. These hikes are a seasonal favorite for both locals and visitors.
15. Ottawa National Forest
NORTHWOODS WILDERNESS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest spans the western Upper Peninsula and is renowned for its extensive hiking trail network through deep forests, river corridors, and serene lakes. Adventurers can explore a diverse landscape filled with scenic vistas, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The park is especially cherished for its backcountry hiking and opportunities for quiet wilderness immersion.