Parchment MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Parchment, Michigan.
1. Kalamazoo River Valley Trail
RIVERSIDE SCENIC PATHWAY
The Kalamazoo River Valley Trail offers a multi-use paved trail stretching over 22 miles, ideal for hiking, walking, and biking. The trail weaves through wooded areas, city parks, and alongside the Kalamazoo River, providing excellent views and a peaceful outdoor experience. Hiking here is accessible for all ages and skill levels, with numerous trailheads located throughout the city and nearby communities.
2. Chipman Preserve
NATURE PRESERVE HIKING
Chipman Preserve features six miles of scenic natural-surface hiking trails winding through forests and open grassland. This peaceful preserve is home to a diverse range of local flora and fauna, making it a favorite for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Visitors will enjoy the varied landscapes and quiet atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
3. Verburg Park
URBAN PARK TRAILS
Verburg Park offers paved hiking and biking paths nestled along the river and shaded by trees, providing a tranquil escape within the city. The park includes playgrounds, picnic areas, and access to the Kalamazoo River for additional recreation. Its convenient location and easygoing trails make it ideal for families or those seeking a short, pleasant walk.
4. Crow's Nest (Tallmadge Woods Trail)
FORESTED RIDGE HIKING
Crow's Nest, featuring the Tallmadge Woods Trail, is a 1.7-mile loop that climbs a wooded dune, offering amazing elevated views of the Saugatuck area. Hikers pass through peaceful forests and can spot unique plant life along the way. The ridge-top vantage points provide a serene place to enjoy Michigan's dune ecosystem.
5. Crooked Lake Nature Preserve Trail
PRESERVE LAKESIDE TRAIL
The Crooked Lake Nature Preserve Trail features a 2.6-mile loop circling wetlands and woodlands near Crooked Lake. Boardwalks and natural paths allow up-close views of wildlife, including turtles and waterfowl. This tranquil setting is especially appealing for those seeking a quiet retreat immersed in nature.
6. Fitzgerald Park
RIVER BLUFF TRAILS
Fitzgerald Park boasts over three miles of scenic trails along the Grand River, with paths leading to impressive Ledges sandstone formations. The park is rich in natural beauty, featuring forested ravines and river views. Its trails offer a variety of terrain, attracting hikers, nature photographers, and families alike.
7. Battle Creek Linear Park
URBAN GREENWAY PATH
Battle Creek Linear Park encompasses nearly 26 miles of paved pathway weaving through parks, neighborhoods, and along rivers. The trail is popular for walking, jogging, and cycling, offering easy access to several community attractions. Scenic bridges and riverside views make it a favorite for local outdoor activity.
8. Al Sabo Land Preserve
TRAILS & WETLAND HABITAT
Al Sabo Land Preserve offers over 25 miles of trails meandering through forests, open meadows, and wetlands. Hikers can spot abundant wildlife and enjoy peaceful moments near boardwalks and observation platforms. The preserve is especially loved for its sense of seclusion and opportunity to connect with nature.
9. Portman Nature Preserve
PRISTINE NATURAL BEAUTY
Portman Nature Preserve offers a diverse network of hiking trails traversing woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Visitors enjoy serene lake views, peaceful forests, and a chance to observe native wildlife. Its quiet setting and well-maintained paths create a haven for both avid hikers and casual walkers.
10. Buck Creek Trail
CREEKSIDE URBAN WALK
Buck Creek Trail is a 2.5-mile paved path through parks and neighborhoods in Wyoming, offering tranquil views of Buck Creek and surrounding greenery. With multiple access points and easy grades, the trail is suitable for walkers of all skill levels. The urban park setting makes it a convenient escape for nearby residents.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP STATE TRAIL EXPERIENCES
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the state's most celebrated trails, from expansive forests to dramatic lakeshores and hidden gems. Hikers can discover diverse experiences across Michigan, including challenging backpacking routes, accessible family walks, and scenic overlooks. With four distinct seasons and abundant natural wonders, Michigan stands as a premier destination for outdoor adventure.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL & BEACH TRAILS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking offers access to some of the nation's premier beach and coastal trails, with routes along Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron. Hikers enjoy stunning bluff-top views, sandy stretches, and scenic state parks renowned for their waterfront beauty. These trails are perfect for those seeking breezy, picturesque hikes with opportunities for swimming and relaxation.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
WILDLIFE & SECLUSION TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems uncovers secluded trails perfect for wildlife observation and peaceful solitude. Tucked away in lesser-known preserves, these hikes reward adventurers with quiet forests, diverse habitats, and the chance to spot rare birds or animals. These off-the-beaten-path locations are ideal for those craving a private outdoor experience amid Michigan's scenic backcountry.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TRAIL WALKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the state's best trails for viewing vibrant fall colors, from hardwood forests to ridgeline lookouts. Hikers can immerse themselves in brilliant reds, golds, and oranges during peak leaf season, with each region offering its own spectacular display. These autumn hikes are a must for photographers, leaf-peepers, and anyone seeking a crisp, colorful adventure.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST NORTH WOODS TRAILS
Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers over 500 miles of trails exploring vast forests, waterfalls, and lake-studded wilderness. Hikers can tackle everything from short nature walks to challenging backcountry routes, with abundant opportunities for wildlife spotting. The forest's remote beauty and unspoiled landscapes make it an essential destination for serious hikers and nature enthusiasts.