Nashville MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Nashville, Michigan.
1. Crow's Nest/Tallmadge Woods Trail
SCENIC FORESTED LOOP
Crow's Nest/Tallmadge Woods Trail in Nashville offers hikers a classic Michigan woodland experience, with lush forests and gently winding paths. The trail is noted for its tranquil atmosphere and opportunities for birdwatching amid diverse flora. Hikers can enjoy a peaceful stroll while taking in the serene beauty of the woods.
2. Paul Henry Thornapple Trail
RAILS-TO-TRAILS GREENWAY
Paul Henry Thornapple Trail spans 2.56 miles in Eaton County, providing a smooth route for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing. With a trestle bridge offering scenic views, the trail is flat and easily accessible for families and casual hikers. Its route winds through rural landscapes, connecting small towns and natural areas.
3. Yankee Springs Recreation Area
DIVERSE WOODLAND ADVENTURES
Yankee Springs Recreation Area is known for its rolling hills, numerous lakes, and extensive network of trails suitable for hikers of all levels. The park features rugged terrain, dense forests, and beautiful overlooks, making it a favorite spot for those seeking outdoor adventures. With over 5,000 acres, visitors can enjoy both short walks and multi-hour hikes.
4. Portland Riverwalk
RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY PATHWAY
Portland Riverwalk offers a paved path along the Grand River, allowing hikers easy access to beautiful waterside views and charming downtown sections. The trail is ideal for leisurely strolls, with interpretive signs and picnic areas enhancing the experience. It's a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxing, family-friendly walk.
5. Ionia State Recreation Area
HILLY FOREST HIKING
Ionia State Recreation Area features a series of woodland trails that range from gentle to moderate, offering scenic views of rolling hills, forests, and waterways. The area is perfect for nature enthusiasts interested in birdwatching or enjoying wildflowers during spring and summer. Hikers can choose from several loop options, each providing a peaceful retreat into nature.
6. Forestview Natural Area Trail
QUIET NATURAL ESCAPE
Forestview Natural Area Trail provides hikers with a secluded path through mixed forests and gentle terrain in Nashville. This trail is excellent for wildlife spotting and enjoying the solitude of nature just outside town. The well-maintained trail makes it suitable for a peaceful walk or a slow-paced run.
7. Deep Lake Trail
LAKESIDE HIKING EXPERIENCE
Deep Lake Trail, located near Yankee Springs Recreation Area, circles a pristine lake and offers wooded sections alongside open meadows. It is perfect for those who enjoy water views combined with varied terrain underfoot. The trail is especially scenic in the early morning when the fog rolls off the lake.
8. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
FOUR-SEASON WOODLAND TRAIL
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail provides an all-season track, ideal for hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. The path weaves through mature forests and rolling hills, showcasing the natural diversity of the Nashville area. Its moderate length and scenic beauty make it a local favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
9. North Country National Scenic Trail
EPIC LONG-DISTANCE ROUTE
The North Country National Scenic Trail traverses the Ionia area, giving hikers a chance to experience part of one of America's greatest long-distance hiking paths. This section features tranquil forests and rural landscapes, with well-marked trailheads for easy entry and exit. It offers both short day hikes and the option for ambitious multi-day adventures.
10. Old Fishtown Trail — Water Tower Loop
HISTORIC TOWN WALK
Old Fishtown Trail — Water Tower Loop invites hikers to explore the historic charm of Fishtown in Leland, complete with scenic waterfront views. The loop offers a blend of rustic local history and natural beauty, making for a unique hiking experience on Michigan's coastline. It's particularly enjoyable for those interested in combining outdoor activity with local culture.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATEWIDE HIKING HIGHLIGHTS
Best Michigan Hiking represents the top destinations across the state for those seeking diverse hiking experiences, from dense forests to sandy beaches and island trails. Hikers will find every type of landscape, offering new adventures in all four seasons and catering to every skill level. Whether exploring remote national parks or scenic local paths, Michigan never fails to deliver memorable outdoor experiences.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL & BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking spotlights the state's premier beach and coastal trails, where hikers can enjoy sweeping views of the Great Lakes, sandy bluffs, and lighthouses. These trails offer a unique hiking experience on shores known for their beauty and serenity. From short walks to rugged dunes, the state's shoreline hikes are ideal for those seeking sun, sand, and spectacular sunsets.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED AND WILDLIFE-FILLED
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems features trails off the beaten path, perfect for those who crave solitude and closer encounters with diverse wildlife. These lesser-known areas promise peaceful hiking amid undisturbed forests, tranquil wetlands, and scenic clearings. Adventurers have the chance to discover Michigan's best-kept secrets while enjoying pristine natural settings.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE WANDERS
Michigan Autumn Hiking celebrates the state's spectacular show of fall colors, with trails winding through vibrant forests ablaze with reds, oranges, and yellows. These routes are ideal for leaf-peeping and capturing the essence of Michigan's seasonal beauty. Hikers can enjoy crisp air and rustling leaves on some of the most picturesque pathways in the region.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS NORTH EXPERIENCES
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, offers a vast network of hiking trails through old-growth forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes. Visitors can explore scenic waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and quiet backcountry routes ideal for longer treks. The forest is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, making it a must-visit for serious hikers and nature lovers.