Fife Lake MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Fife Lake, Michigan.
1. Fife Lake Loop Trail
SCENIC LAKE CIRCUIT
Fife Lake Loop Trail invites hikers on a 21-mile journey through lush forests, tranquil streams, and along the stunning Manistee River. The loop offers backpacking opportunities with state forest campgrounds and is a favorite for both weekend adventures and day hikes. Visitors experience beautiful lakeside vistas and seasonal color changes, making this a year-round destination.
2. North Country Trail – Fife Lake Spur
AMERICA'S LONG TRAIL SECTION
The North Country Trail's Fife Lake Spur connects the village to America's longest hiking trail through a scenic one-mile connector. This section forms part of a celebrated 21-mile route, offering hikers extensive forest landscapes, river views, and wildlife encounters. The access point near Fife Lake makes it convenient for both experienced backpackers and casual day hikers.
3. Spring Lake State Forest Campground Trails
FORESTED LOOP HIKES
Spring Lake State Forest Campground offers hikers peaceful wooded trails with access to clear spring-fed waters. The area provides excellent birdwatching and an opportunity to camp lakeside, combining rustic camping with outdoor exploration. Trails here connect seamlessly with the larger Fife Lake Loop for extended adventures.
4. Old US-131 State Forest Campground Trails
RIVERFRONT WOODLAND PATHS
Old US-131 State Forest Campground features trails winding through hardwood forests and alongside the scenic Manistee River. This campground serves as a popular starting point for day hikes or longer backpacking trips around the Fife Lake Loop. The riverfront campsites add to the experience, offering tranquil spots to relax after a hike.
5. Headquarters Lake Trail
QUIET LAKE VIEWING
Headquarters Lake Trail leads hikers to a serene, lesser-known lake surrounded by dense woodlands and frequented by local wildlife. The peaceful trail is ideal for reflection and nature photography. Its quiet atmosphere makes it a favorite for those seeking solitude just off the Fife Lake Loop.
6. Manistee River Walk
RIVERSIDE EXPLORATION
Manistee River Walk offers hikers an easy stroll along one of northern Michigan's most picturesque rivers. The path highlights opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying the soothing sounds of flowing water. Its proximity to the Fife Lake Loop makes it a beloved side adventure for visitors.
7. Fife Lake Village Interpretive Nature Path
EDUCATIONAL WOODLAND LOOP
Fife Lake Village Interpretive Nature Path is a short, family-friendly trail featuring educational signage and easy access from town. The pathway meanders through shaded woods and teaches about local flora and fauna. It's an excellent choice for families new to hiking and curious about the area's natural history.
8. Boardman Lake Trail
LAKESHORE URBAN TRAIL
Boardman Lake Trail in Traverse City provides a scenic, multi-use path looping around a picturesque urban lake. This flat, accessible trail is ideal for all ages, offering numerous spots for lakeside rest or picnics. Its tree-lined route is well-loved by both local hikers and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Betsie Valley Trail
RAILS-TO-TRAILS ADVENTURE
Betsie Valley Trail spans nearly 23 miles from Thompsonville to Frankfort, following a former railroad corridor through forests, farmland, and riverside scenery. The crushed limestone pathway is popular for hiking and biking, with several trailheads along the way for convenient access. Its gentle grades make it a relaxing journey through classic northern Michigan landscapes.
10. Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve Trail
WETLAND WILDLIFE WALK
Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve Trail offers an accessible boardwalk and crushed stone path through a unique Lake Michigan coastal marsh. This .75-mile trail is excellent for birdwatching and spotting rare wetland flora, drawing both naturalists and families. The serene setting and abundant wildlife make it a memorable detour on the way to or from Fife Lake.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP TRAILS STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking encompasses the most celebrated trails throughout the state, offering adventures from dense forests to sand dunes and rocky bluffs. Michigan is home to legendary paths like the North Country Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Pictured Rocks, drawing nature lovers with their diversity and scenery. Each trail promises unforgettable experiences, whether seeking waterfalls, sweeping lake vistas, or challenging backcountry routes.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
BEACH AND COASTAL HIKES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the state's renowned beach and lakeshore trails, where hikers explore sandy stretches, dunes, and dramatic bluffs along Great Lakes coasts. Notable routes include the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, offering breathtaking water views and unique geological features. These hikes are perfect for those seeking the fresh air and expansive beauty of Michigan's unrivaled shorelines.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED TRAILS & WILDLIFE
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems uncovers trails ideal for solitude and nature observation, often tucked away in lesser-known state forests and preserves. These paths reward the intrepid with quiet forests, rare wildlife sightings, and peaceful lakes that escape the crowds. Exploring these secret spots offers a chance to connect deeply with Michigan's wild landscapes away from busier routes.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE JOURNEYS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features spectacular trails designed for viewing vibrant fall colors, from golden maples to deep-red oaks. Destinations like Porcupine Mountains and Tunnel of Trees transform into a painter's palette each September and October, drawing leaf-peepers from across the region. Hikers can immerse themselves in these colorful forests for unforgettable autumn memories and crisp seasonal air.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS TREKS
Ottawa National Forest offers some of Michigan's best wilderness hiking experiences among 990,000 acres of remote woodland, wild rivers, and pristine lakes. Trails range from gentle family walks to challenging backcountry routes, many with opportunities for waterfall views and wildlife spotting. With its unspoiled beauty and extensive network, the forest is a must-explore for avid hikers visiting Michigan's western Upper Peninsula.