Hikes in Michigan: 5 Can't Miss Michigan Hikes in 2022

The 5 Hikes in Michigan that need to be on your 2022 radar

Here in Michigan when the weather is nice, everyone is outside enjoying it. Whether it be hiking, biking, swimming, fishing or what other activity, Michiganders love to capitalize on favorable weather. 

5 Hikes in Michigan YOU need to KNOW

  • Empire Bluff Trail – Sleeping Bear Dunes
  • Chapel Beach – Pictured Rocks Lakeshore
  • Lake of the Clouds – Ontonagon Area
  • Hogback Mountain – Marquette
  • Arch Rock – Mackinac Island

Empire Bluff Trail - Sleeping Bear Dunes

hikes in michigan - empire bluff trail

Welcome to Sleeping Bear Dunes! One of Michigan’s premiere destinations. The Empire Bluff Trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of the bestyou will find and is incredibly rewarding. Not only are the views outstanding, this hike is very easy

Clocking in at only 1.5 miles round trip, this hike is worth its weight in gold. This trail will get very busy during summer season so plan wisely.

Chapel Beach Loop - Pictured Rocks Lakeshore

hikes in michigan: chapel beach

Apart of the Pictured Rock National Lakeshore, is the Chapel Basin Loop.

What makes the Chapel Beach Loop such a worthwhile hike? The trail has 2 waterfalls, abundance of plant varieties, and the immaculate, Chapel Beach at the end.

For those who want to make the full Chapin Basin Loop, schedule 5 hours and 13 miles of unbelievable scenery. Highly recommended

Lake of the Clouds - Ontonagon

Lake of the Clouds is one of the most photographed spots in all of Michigan. If you haven’t seen or heard of this spot it’s either because you don’t own a phone/computer or never go hiking. 

For those who are visiting during the fall, this is one of those Michigan hikes you CANT miss.

Hogback Mountain - Marquette

Hogback Mountain is located in Marquette, Michigan. Marquette is the UP’s largest city and is also replete with outstanding hiking options. Hogback is a well deserved winner when in town because of it’s 360 views over Marquette County and Lake Superior. 

This hike is also a challenge for pretty much anyone but the juice is worth the squeeze once you are atop its peak. A close second in Marquette is Sugarloaf Mountain but that hike isn’t as “wild” and is more of a stair climb than a hike.

Arch Rock - Mackinac Island

Arch Rock is Mackinac Islands most memorable hike/viewpoint. You don’t technically have to hike here but you can, and should. The stunning geologic formation and the views from the island out to Lake Michigan is why you need to add this to your list.

Additional Top Hike in Michigan

This is a write in hike because there are to many amazing trails to name 5! The extra hike that didn’t make the top 5 and that any of your trail seekers should find your way to is Michigan’s Wetmore Shoreline Trail! 

Often overlooked and forgotten, this Marquette Gem has Superior Lake Superior views with easy accessibility.

More Amazing Things to Experience in Michigan

Michigan has some awesome hikes and things to do that might not be on your radar.

For those who need more outdoor adventure or hikes, check out these guides from around the state below: 

🌊 Best Things to do in Marquette, MI

🧊 Ice Climbing in Michigan: An Unforgettable Experience

Thank you for reading and hope to hear from you soon!