Hiking in Mid-Michigan: Where to Go
A Healthier Michigan
| 4 min read
Do you think you have to go “up north” to get an authentic Michigan hiking experience? You will be surprised by the diversity of sites to explore in mid-Michigan.
Whether you are looking for a riverfront experience, big rocks or an urban adventure, there is plenty to discover in the middle of the Mitten state.
Enjoy Grand River views on this 3.9-mile loop near Lansing, which accommodates kids and pets, with some designated off-leash areas. The trail is slightly challenging and takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes on average to complete, according to AllTrails. This is a popular trail, and brings visitors for birding, hiking, and mountain biking.
Unique plants, animals and cultural points of interest can be found along this 26-mile paved pathway. Battle Creek Linear Park has no admission charge and no front gate – the park can be entered from all sides. There are six different trail loops in the park, ranging from the 1-mile Spring Lake Loop to the 10.5-mile Perimeter Loop.
This 4.1-mile trail located in Sharp Park near Lansing provides plenty of natural beauty to behold and is a wonderful place to spot wildlife. The hiking trail is an easy challenge and takes a little over an hour on average to complete.
Built on an old railroad bed, this 10.5-mile linear park connects Sumit, Spring Arbor and Concord townships in Jackson County. Starting in Concord and trailing to Jackson, the trail was built on an abandoned stretch of the Michigan Central Railroad. The trail is ideal for walking, running or biking. At different points, the trail crosses over the Kalamazoo River and by the natural beauty of the picturesque Lime Lake.
Explore more than 20 miles of paved trail, which passes through urban and natural areas. The trail also is host to a number of attractions including the Adado Riverfront Park, the Brenke Fish Ladder, Crego Park, kayaking and canoeing, the Potter Park Zoo, the Impression 5 Museum and Downtown Lansing itself.
This out-and-back trail near Grand Ledge features beautiful rock formations, which also host local rock climbers. There are playgrounds, a half-court basketball goal, disc golf, and a baseball and softball diamond. There is a vehicle entrance fee to enter Fitzgerald Park: $3 per day for residents and $5 per day for non-residents, and there are yearly passes available for frequent visitors.
Whether you are a beginning or advanced hiker, Midland’s City Forest offers a variety of scenic paths to choose from that will accommodate all skill levels. There are more than 13 miles of mountain biking trails, open year-round, with steep hills, twists, and turns. During the winter, the forest and trails are best known for its four iced toboggan runs, cross country ski trails, outdoor skating rink and a large sled hill.
There are plenty of trails to explore here, about 15 miles to be exact. Get to know Portland’s downtown and pass by the Grand and Looking Glass rivers as well as natural features, parks, and bridges. This trail starts just west of Lansing, close to I-96, and is another Michigan trail built over defunct railroad lines.
Two main trail systems with more than 15 miles of trails offer wonderful views of historic landmarks, forests and wetlands in this 10,000-acre preserve. This is a suitable place to look for unique birds and native animals, including nesting bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and softshell turtles.
For more hiking tips, check out the following episode of A Healthier Michigan Podcast. Host Chuck Gaidica is joined by Dan Muncey, onsite well-being coordinator at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Paul Yauk, trail coordinator for the State of Michigan to discuss the best local parks.
To hear more episodes on your smartphone or tablet, subscribe to Apple Podcasts or Spotify or your favorite podcast app.
Related Links:
- Michigan Hikes to Get Your 10,000 Steps In (ahealthiermichigan.org)
- 6 Trails in Michigan Beach Towns to Try This Summer (ahealthiermichigan.org)
- Tips for Hiking Solo (ahealthiermichigan.org)
