Parma MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Parma, Michigan.
1. Falling Waters Trail
SCENIC RAIL-TRAIL ADVENTURE
Falling Waters Trail is a beloved 10.5-mile paved route connecting the Village of Concord to the City of Jackson. The trail traverses natural springs, lakes, and expansive wetlands, providing constant opportunities to spot wildlife and appreciate Michigan's seasonal beauty. This accessible and well-maintained trail is a favorite for walkers, runners, and cyclists seeking a peaceful outdoor escape.
2. Crooked Lake Nature Preserve Trail
TRANQUIL PRESERVE PATH
Crooked Lake Nature Preserve Trail winds through forests and along the serene shoreline of Crooked Lake near Parma. This gentle 2.6-mile trail offers birdwatching, wildflowers, and chances to observe local wildlife in a protected natural setting. Hikers enjoy a peaceful and moderately easy route perfect for families and nature photographers.
3. 17th Infantry Loop Trail
SHORT WOODLAND LOOP
The 17th Infantry Loop Trail is a compact 0.2-mile loop nestled within the woodlands surrounding Parma. It's ideal for a quick walk, offering a shaded and quiet forest immersion suitable for all ages. The trail is especially appreciated by those seeking a short nature break or a gentle introduction to hiking.
4. Trail 1
EASY FOREST WALK
Trail 1 provides 1.7 miles of tranquil hiking through mixed woodlands near Parma. This easy trail grants hikers close encounters with diverse plant life and opportunities to spot wildlife tucked away from urban bustle. Its well-marked path makes it perfect for casual walkers and newcomers to hiking.
5. Trail 5
SERENE NATURE ROUTE
Running for 1.8 miles through peaceful woodland, Trail 5 near Parma is well-suited for hikers seeking serenity and gentle exercise. Its shaded route features subtle elevation changes and plenty of bird activity. Visitors often return for the quiet ambiance and the sense of wilderness close to home.
6. Fieldcrest Pathway
COUNTRYSIDE PATHWAY WALK
The Fieldcrest Pathway offers a 3-mile stroll through scenic meadows and open countryside near Parma. Hikers are treated to panoramic views, blooming wildflowers, and a gentle landscape teeming with songbirds and small mammals. This trail is popular with locals for its easy access and peaceful rural charm.
7. Granger Meadows Park Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARK LOOP
Granger Meadows Park Trail is a 1.9-mile loop renowned for its easy terrain and playgrounds, making it ideal for families and beginners. The trail winds through open grassy areas and shaded groves within a well-maintained park setting. It's a favorite local spot for picnics, short hikes, and outdoor play.
8. Concord Linear Park Trail
VILLAGE GREENWAY PATH
Concord Linear Park Trail carries hikers along a charming path through the village of Concord near Parma, linking with the Falling Waters Trail. The trail features gentle grades, shaded sections, and local park amenities. Its ease of access and scenic views make it a go-to destination for a leisurely walk.
9. Kalamazoo River Valley Trail
RIVERSIDE MULTI-USE TRAIL
The Kalamazoo River Valley Trail is an expansive multi-use path passing through Jackson, offering scenic river views and connections to numerous parks and attractions. Stretching for miles, this paved trail welcomes walkers, cyclists, and runners alike. The riverfront scenery, wildlife, and varied access points make it one of the region's premier outdoor corridors.
10. Sharp Park Trails
URBAN NATURE ESCAPE
Sharp Park Trails wind through a large municipal park in Jackson, offering several loop options surrounded by lawns, woods, and small lakes. The park's trails are suitable for all skill levels and popular for day hikes, birdwatching, and family outings. Convenient amenities and natural beauty make Sharp Park a cherished community resource.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING STATEWIDE
Best Michigan Hiking invites enthusiasts to discover the state's most iconic and scenic hiking destinations, from lush forests and waterfalls to rugged dunes. Trails like the North Country National Scenic Trail and Greenstone Ridge Trail offer immersive wilderness experiences and breathtaking vistas. Michigan's diverse landscapes make it a premier destination for hikers of every ability and interest.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAILS & BEACHES
Michigan Shoreline Hiking covers the state's top hikes along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, featuring miles of sandy beaches, towering dunes, and dramatic coastal views. Trails like those at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Pictured Rocks offer unique beach hiking, freshwater vistas, and plenty of photo opportunities. These shoreline routes are favorites for beach lovers and outdoor explorers alike.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED & WILDLIFE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems highlights the state's lesser-known trails ideal for solitude and wildlife observation. Secluded preserves, quiet state parks, and backcountry areas provide opportunities to spot deer, birds, and native plants away from crowds. These gems are perfect for hikers seeking peaceful nature experiences and off-the-beaten-path exploration.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE DESTINATIONS
Michigan Autumn Hiking showcases the state's finest trails for experiencing the vibrant colors of fall, with maples, oaks, and birches lighting up the landscape. Popular leaf-peeping spots include Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. These fall hikes offer crisp air and spectacular views during Michigan's most colorful season.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS HIKING
Ottawa National Forest, located near Ironwood in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, boasts hundreds of miles of trails winding through old-growth forests and around numerous lakes. The forest offers challenging backpacking routes and peaceful day hikes, with opportunities to spot waterfalls, wildlife, and pristine wilderness. Its rugged beauty and recreational diversity make it a top hiking destination for outdoor adventurers.