Vernon MichiganHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Vernon, Michigan.
1. Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail
WOODLANDS AND WILDLIFE VIEWS
Hickory Ridge Hike & Ski Trail in Vernon offers nature lovers a serene experience through rolling woodlands. The trail is well-maintained, providing options for both hiking and cross-country skiing depending on the season. With a gentle terrain and chances to observe local wildlife, it is ideal for families and all skill levels.
2. Delta East/West Trail
QUIET NATURAL SCENERY
The Delta East/West Trail welcomes hikers for a tranquil walk amid picturesque landscapes in Vernon. This trail features mostly flat paths, making it a leisurely option for beginners or those looking for a peaceful outing. Its scenic vistas and shaded stretches provide a refreshing escape close to town.
3. Main Trail
SHORT AND ACCESSIBLE PATH
Main Trail in Vernon provides an easy and accessible hiking opportunity, perfect for those seeking a quick nature fix. The trail winds gently through local greenery, offering glimpses of birds and seasonal wildflowers. Its manageable length makes it a favorite for short outings and family strolls.
4. North Bay Trail
VIEWS OF WATER AND WOODS
North Bay Trail gives hikers a lovely blend of forested stretches and serene water views in Vernon. The route is moderate in length and is well-marked, making it popular with both novice and intermediate hikers. It's a great spot for photography and quiet reflection by the water's edge.
5. Paved Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WALKWAY
The Paved Trail provides a smooth, accessible surface ideal for families, strollers, and those with limited mobility in Vernon. Running through a lush natural environment, the path is perfect for biking as well as walking. Benches and shaded areas offer places to rest and enjoy the tranquil setting.
6. Chippewa Trail
RAIL-TRAIL EXPERIENCE
Chippewa Trail is a converted rail-trail that offers hikers and cyclists a well-maintained path starting near Vernon in Owosso. The trail showcases rural Michigan scenery, passing fields and woodlands with informative signage along the route. Its steady surface and gentle grade make it suitable for all ages.
7. Vassar Rail Trail
HISTORIC PATHWAYS
Vassar Rail Trail features a multi-use path built on a historic railroad corridor northeast of Vernon. The tree-lined route is popular for walking, jogging, and biking, offering a mix of shade and sun. Interpretive signs provide insight into the area's railroad history as you hike.
8. Shiawassee River State Game Area
RIVERBANK WILDLIFE HABITAT
Shiawassee River State Game Area to the northeast of Vernon in St. Charles is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails through wetlands and along the river. The area is rich with birdlife and opportunities for spotting deer and other wildlife. Trails range from easy to moderately challenging, suited for nature observation and photography.
9. Rose Lake Wildlife Area
FORESTED WILDLIFE ZONE
Rose Lake Wildlife Area in Bath, southeast of Vernon, offers miles of rustic hiking trails through diverse habitats including wetlands, woods, and grasslands. The area is managed for wildlife, so sightings of birds and mammals are common along the peaceful paths. Its less-traveled routes provide solitude for hikers seeking a quiet escape.
10. Sleepy Hollow State Park
LAKESIDE HIKING ADVENTURE
Sleepy Hollow State Park, just a brief drive from Vernon in Laingsburg, features over 16 miles of scenic hiking trails winding around Lake Ovid. Trails pass through forests, meadows, and lakeshore, offering year-round beauty and abundant wildlife. The park is a favorite for both day hikes and longer nature walks.
11. Best Michigan Hiking
TOP HIKING DESTINATIONS
Best Michigan Hiking represents the most acclaimed trails throughout the state, offering adventures from rugged forests to dune-filled landscapes. Hikers can explore diverse terrains, from the Upper Peninsula's dramatic cliffs to Lower Peninsula's winding woodland paths. These destinations cater to every skill level and showcase Michigan's rich natural beauty all year round.
12. Michigan Shoreline Hiking
SCENIC COASTAL WALKS
Michigan Shoreline Hiking highlights the best coastal trails along the Great Lakes, where hikers experience sandy beaches, towering dunes, and sweeping lake vistas. Trails such as those in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Pictured Rocks offer unique opportunities for beachcombing and exploring dramatic shorelines. These routes are perfect for those seeking the soothing sights and sounds of Michigan's iconic water edges.
13. Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems
SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS
Michigan Hidden Hiking Gems showcases lesser-known trails offering tranquility and exceptional wildlife viewing away from crowded hotspots. These secret spots, often in state forests and remote preserves, provide immersive experiences through pristine environments. Adventurers seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature will find these hidden treasures truly rewarding.
14. Michigan Autumn Hiking
FALL FOLIAGE VIEWS
Michigan Autumn Hiking refers to spectacular trails renowned for their brilliant fall foliage, drawing hikers from around the region each year. Trails in areas like Porcupine Mountains, Tahquamenon Falls, and local parks burst with red, gold, and orange hues during the peak season. These hikes provide memorable panoramas and crisp autumn air, ideal for immersive seasonal outings.
15. Ottawa National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
Ottawa National Forest, located in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula near Watersmeet, offers hikers over 196 miles of challenging and scenic trails in a true wilderness setting. The forest features old-growth trees, rushing waterfalls, and pristine lakes, making it ideal for multi-day treks and backcountry exploration. From gentle family hikes to rugged backpacking, Ottawa National Forest delivers some of the state's finest outdoor experiences.