Trails

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is home to thousands of miles of trails open to adventure each season. The same could be said for your usual recreation destinations, but ours are unique. 

Across these expansive miles, you’ll find yourself hiking and ATVing historic islands, horseback riding along shorelines of three freshwater Great Lakes, waterfalls, and climbing mountains overlooking lakes that reflect the skies above you. Our trails weave you through our waters and forests. Around the next bend could be an urban area or quiet peace. 

Connect yourself to the next adventure, whether it’s to Michigan’s Lower Peninsula or states spanning beyond the midwest — you’re always invited to explore longer. 

Journey the North Country National Scenic Trail through diverse landscapes and flexible hiking routes. Luce County, Alger County and the Mackinac Bridge all fall within this trail which spans 4,700 miles across eight states from North Dakota to Vermont. On this route, you’ll discover Lake Superior State Forest and Hiawatha National Forest, cross the Little Two Hearted River three times, roam about the rootbeer-colored waterfalls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park, see the mighty Mackinac Bridge and dip your toes into the banks of the world’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior. 

Another trail system that guides you through Michigan is the Iron Belle Trail, which passes through 48 counties from Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula to Detroit’s Belle Isle Park in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Sharing a stretch with the North Country National Scenic Trail, there is a route for hiking and another for biking. Each allows you to see Michigan’s neighborhoods, communities and experience tourism.

Whether you’re an extreme outdoor enthusiast or simply enjoy a mile or two in the fresh air, you’ll find breathtaking mountaintop and shoreline views along our marked paths. As you navigate your way through our wilderness, listen for the built-in soundtrack of birds singing, the rustle of squirrels chasing each other through treetops, and watch for moose, bobcats, bears, wolves, deer and foxes. We have trails designated for: 

  • Mountain & Fat Tire Biking 
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing and Snowshoeing
  • Snowmobiling 
  • ORVing
  • ATVing 
  • Paddling 
  • Horseback Riding 

Go whatever distance you’d like in whichever way you’d prefer, and enjoy our famous natural landmarks along your route. You can see Arch Rock, Tahquamenon Falls, the Porcupine Mountains, Lake of the Clouds, Bond Falls, the Bays de Noc, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, historic lighthouses and so much more! Pack your water, bug spray, paddles, hiking boots and whatever else you need. It’s time to immerse yourself somewhere in the great, wide Upper Peninsula.

Don't forget to purchase any necessary licenses and learn the current rules and regulations of the trails. Learn more.

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