Ellsworth MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Ellsworth, Michigan.
1. Antrim Creek Natural Area
SCENIC LAKESHORE HIKES
Antrim Creek Natural Area offers over two miles of picturesque trails weaving through forests, meadows, and along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan. This 156-acre preserve is celebrated for its stunning waterfront views, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere. Hikers can enjoy bird watching, quiet beaches, and year-round outdoor recreation close to Ellsworth.
2. Jordan River Pathway
WILDERNESS LOOP ADVENTURE
The Jordan River Pathway is a renowned 19-mile loop trail near Ellsworth, celebrated for its challenging terrain and sweeping vistas. Hikers traverse lush forests, encounter clear streams, and may spot abundant wildlife along the route. The pathway is especially popular for multi-day backpacking trips and exploring Northern Michigan's rugged backcountry.
3. Barnes County Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKEFRONT TRAIL
Barnes County Park features easy, family-friendly trails ideal for leisurely walks and nature exploration. Set on Lake Michigan's shore, the park provides direct beach access, picnic areas, and shaded woodland paths. It's a favorite spot for families wanting to combine hiking with lakefront relaxation.
4. Boyne Valley Trailway
SCENIC MULTI-USE CORRIDOR
The Boyne Valley Trailway is a paved multi-use trail stretching from Boyne City to Boyne Falls, catering to hikers, cyclists, and walkers alike. The trail offers views of forests, open meadows, and small creeks, making it a pleasant journey through the region's varied landscapes. It's suitable for all skill levels and provides easy access to nearby towns.
5. Leelanau Trail
LONG RIDGE-LINE STROLLS
Leelanau Trail is a 17.5-mile pathway connecting Traverse City and Suttons Bay, known for its gentle grades and countryside scenery. The route travels through orchards, vineyards, and woodlands, offering spectacular views in every season. It's ideal for hikers seeking a long, peaceful walk or bike ride in Michigan's wine country.
6. Old Baldy Trail
DUNE SUMMIT VIEWS
Old Baldy Trail is a moderate 3.4-mile loop that climbs through forests and open dunes to a high bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic lake views and the chance to see diverse wildflowers in spring and summer. The changing terrain and summit views make this a memorable hike near Ellsworth.
7. Scenic Bluff Trail
SHORT BLUFF ASCENT
The Scenic Bluff Trail is a 1.1-mile hike in Petoskey offering dramatic views of Little Traverse Bay from atop wooded bluffs. This brief but rewarding trail is perfect for a quick outing with a photographic payoff at the overlook. Wildlife sightings and peaceful forests make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
8. Buffalo Ridge Trail
URBAN NATURE CORRIDOR
Buffalo Ridge Trail winds through Traverse City, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and green spaces with a well-maintained path. The trail offers glimpses of wildlife and natural areas within an urban setting, making it accessible for daily walks or runs. It's an excellent option for those who want a nature experience close to city conveniences.
9. Petoskey State Park Trails
DUNE AND BEACH WALKS
Petoskey State Park offers several hiking trails winding through classic Michigan dunes, forests, and along sandy Lake Michigan beaches. Hikers can expect frequent sightings of birds and wildflowers, especially in spring and summer. The trails vary in length and difficulty, making the park popular for both families and avid hikers.
10. Glacial Hills Pathway
ROLLING WOODED TRAILS
Glacial Hills Pathway consists of over 30 miles of interconnected trails through glacially sculpted hills and hardwood forests in Bellaire. The system supports hikers, runners, and cyclists, with varied terrain and frequent wildlife encounters. It's known for year-round beauty and well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the state's top-rated trails, from sandy dunes and rugged coastlines to forested hills and wildlife-rich wetlands. These diverse landscapes offer hikers an abundance of adventure across all regions. Michigan's hiking experiences are celebrated for their scenic beauty, pristine natural areas, and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of every level.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEST BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the premier beach and coastal trails that follow the state's Great Lakes shoreline. These routes wind along sandy beaches, through lakeside dunes, and past dramatic cliffs for breathtaking water views. Shoreline hikes are ideal for those seeking the serene beauty of the lakes and the sound of rolling waves.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems are lesser-known trails offering hikers tranquil solitude and immersive wildlife observation. These off-the-beaten-path locations let visitors escape the crowds and experience untouched forests, marshes, and meadows. Hikers often encounter unique flora and fauna in these peaceful, remote corners of Michigan's outdoors.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
VIBRANT FALL FOLIAGE WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the best trails for experiencing dazzling fall foliage during the state's vibrant autumn months. Trails wind through forests ablaze with red, orange, and gold, providing breathtaking views and a crisp, invigorating atmosphere. These hikes are ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking the beauty of Michigan in the fall.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST FORESTED TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest spans nearly one million acres in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, boasting hundreds of miles of hiking trails through pristine wilderness. Hikers can explore waterfalls, rivers, deep forests, and remote backcountry campsites. The forest is renowned for its scenic vistas, diverse habitats, and year-round outdoor adventures.