Sault Ste. Marie MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
1. North Country Trail - Sault Ste. Marie Segment
NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL
The North Country Trail - Sault Ste. Marie Segment introduces hikers to the world's longest National Scenic Trail, extending through lush forests and scenic wetlands as it skirts the city. This segment features easy to moderate terrain and provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation and tranquil moments in nature. It's an ideal starting point for those interested in exploring the vast North Country Trail system.
2. Brady Park Trails
URBAN NATURE WALKS
Brady Park Trails offer a peaceful wooded escape within Sault Ste. Marie, winding among pines, wildflowers, and native plants. These short, well-kept paths are family-friendly and perfect for a gentle stroll or an afternoon picnic. Interpretive signs provide insights into local flora, making it a great choice for nature lovers of all ages.
3. Algonquin Ski Trail
YEAR-ROUND FOREST TRAILS
The Algonquin Ski Trail is a multi-use path that transforms with the seasons—offering hiking and birdwatching in summer, and cross-country skiing in winter. Set just outside the city, it meanders through dense northern forests with gentle hills and serene clearings. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and manageable distances, suitable for all skill levels.
4. Mission Hill Overlook
PANORAMIC VIEWS HIKE
Mission Hill Overlook is renowned for its sweeping vistas of Lake Superior and Whitefish Bay, accessed by a brief but moderately steep climb. The trail passes through hardwood forests before opening up to a spectacular scenic deck, popular for sunset views and photo opportunities. Only a short drive from Sault Ste. Marie, it's a must-visit for breathtaking scenery.
5. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
WATERFALL TRAIL ADVENTURE
Tahquamenon Falls State Park features miles of well-marked hiking trails centered around the Upper and Lower Falls, some of Michigan's largest and most iconic waterfalls. Hikers can experience a mix of lush forests, river views, and the thunderous beauty of the falls themselves. The park's extensive trail network suits all abilities, making it one of the Upper Peninsula's premier hiking destinations.
6. Monocle Lake Recreation Area Trails
LAKESIDE FOREST TRAILS
Monocle Lake Recreation Area offers tranquil trails that loop around the lake's edge and through surrounding forests, just west of Sault Ste. Marie. With gentle elevation and regular lake views, these paths are perfect for peaceful walks, trail runs, or birdwatching. The area is especially popular for camping or day trips centered around a relaxing woodland hike.
7. Hiawatha National Forest - Bay Mills Unit
PRISTINE WOODLAND HIKING
The Bay Mills Unit of Hiawatha National Forest invites hikers onto quiet trails surrounded by towering pines and hardwoods, ideal for nature immersion and solitude. The extensive trail system ranges from short, interpretive loops to longer backcountry hikes that showcase wildflowers and abundant wildlife. This area provides a classic Upper Peninsula forest hiking experience within easy reach of Sault Ste. Marie.
8. Soo Strong Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL
The Soo Strong Trail is a converted rail corridor stretching from Sault Ste. Marie southeast through rural Upper Peninsula landscapes. It's a recreational hotspot for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling, offering long, flat segments that traverse forests, wetlands, and several small communities. The trail provides excellent opportunities for leisurely exploration and spotting local wildlife.
9. Point Iroquois Lighthouse Trail
HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSE HIKE
Point Iroquois Lighthouse Trail combines history and natural beauty on the Lake Superior shoreline near Brimley. Hikers enjoy forested paths that open up to the water's edge, culminating at the iconic 19th-century lighthouse. The scenic viewpoint offers striking vistas of the vast lake and is a favorite for photographers and history buffs alike.
10. Lakenenland Sculpture Park Nature Trail
ART AND NATURE WALK
Lakenenland Sculpture Park Nature Trail, located in Marquette, is a whimsical, family-friendly path winding through a forest filled with colorful metal sculptures. The easy trail invites visitors of all ages to enjoy both outdoor art and the tranquility of northern woods. It's a memorable blend of creativity and nature, making it a unique hiking stop in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
STATEWIDE TOP TRAILS
Best Michigan Hiking highlights the most renowned trails across the state, from rugged paths in the Upper Peninsula to iconic lakefront walks in the Lower Peninsula. These trails take hikers through diverse landscapes, including forested hills, towering dunes, dramatic waterfalls, and coastal bluffs. Adventurers of all abilities can find memorable outdoor experiences among Michigan's top-rated hikes.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
COASTAL TRAIL ADVENTURE
Michigan Shoreline Hiking celebrates the state's best beach and coastal trail experiences, where sandy paths wind beside the Great Lakes and dunes rise above turquoise waters. These hikes offer endless lake views, sandy beaches for picnics, and the sound of waves as a backdrop. Whether exploring the shores of Lake Superior or Lake Michigan, these trails are perfect for beach lovers and outdoor explorers.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE TRAILS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems spotlights lesser-known trails perfect for those seeking solitude and abundant wildlife. These off-the-beaten-path locations often wind through quiet forests, remote wetlands, or rugged natural preserves, far from tourist crowds. Ideal for wildlife observation and peaceful reflection, they offer a different perspective on Michigan's natural beauty.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE TREKS
Michigan Autumn Hiking features the finest trails for experiencing the state's extraordinary fall color. Hikers can stroll through maple and oak forests ablaze with reds, oranges, and golds, while scenic overlooks provide panoramic views of autumn landscapes. This is the season for breathtaking photography and unforgettable crisp-air hikes among vibrant foliage.
15. Ottawa National Forest
WILDERNESS FOREST HIKING
Ottawa National Forest, located near Watersmeet, offers some of Michigan's most remote and scenic hiking experiences, with over 196 miles of trails. Adventurers can explore old-growth forests, sparkling rivers, and hidden waterfalls across this vast wilderness area. The forest's diverse terrain and quiet backcountry are ideal for multi-day treks or day hikes immersed in pure Upper Peninsula beauty.