Hiking & Walking Trails – Grand Rapids & West Michigan
Hiking West Michigan is a snap – there are so many places to choose from, and so much beautiful scenery at each location that it makes it one of our top choices for outdoor things to do in West Michigan.
It’s easy to forget how lucky we are to live where we do. West Michigan has incredible scenery! And we have so many well-kept trails and state parks in our area with different things to see.
I have friends in other parts of the U.S. who miss their Michigan home, saying that all the trails where they live are all the same, and not as varied or well-kept as in Michigan.
Don’t wait to experience Michigan in all four wonderful seasons on a trail near you.
The Parks, Playgrounds & Trails Directory is proudly presented by John Ball Zoo. We are grateful for their support!
Searchable Hiking & Walking Trails Directory
Most of these walking trails are free (some charge a small fee or a parking fee). We’ve checked a lot of these hiking trails off of our list and can’t wait to add some more before the year is over.
← Return to West MI Trails Directory
Park Managed by
Park Website
Open: Open all year Stroller-Friendly? Yes, all or most areas Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leashThis rail trail offers a mix of rural and urban, passing through towns, neighborhoods, woodlands and farmlands, traveling over and along creeks and rivers, including the Thornapple River.
Several areas with parking are available throughout the trail's route.
Good entry points are Main St & Mill Ave intersection in Caledonia, downtown Middleville behind the village offices, and Maple Valley High School east of Nashville.
The Walking Paths at Paul Henry - Thornapple Trail
Running along rail lines, the rail is fairly flat. It is paved with areas of asphalt, cinder and crushed stone.
Paul Henry - Thornapple Trail Features & Amentities
Accessible, Dog Friendly, Free Admission, Lake or River, Paved Walking Path, Paved Bike Path
West Michigan Walking Trails and Hiking Map
We’ve taken a map of West Michigan and plotted favorite family walking trails, parks, and more on it to make it easier for you to find your next outdoor destination.
Use the map or look below for reviews on all of our best walking trails in Grand Rapids and beyond.
Find Walking Trails Near Me
Tips for Using Hiking & Walking Trails
Keep these tips in mind while hiking the walking trails of Grand Rapids.
- It’s common courtesy to stay on the right side of the path when others are approaching.
- Wait your turn on the stairs.
- Pack in and pack out your trash.
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray (we keep a set in the trunk of our car so we’re always prepared!)
- Bring water for everyone.
- Binoculars and/or a compass can make any hike an adventure.
- Check for ticks when you’re done (Read this helpful info about ticks in West Michigan)
We love Hemlock! Our family goes there often.
Be careful when going to aman park. You will need bug spray. Lots of mosquitoes!! Other than that highly recommended 🙂
We went to the Calvin College Nature Preserve. I didn’t realize their trails were free and open until sunset. Grabbed fellow mom, Allison Hoogheem Kampmueller and her kids, and off we went! It was beautiful! Thanks for posting the info.
We went to the Calvin College Nature Preserve. I didn’t realize their trails were free and open until sunset. Grabbed fellow mom, Allison Hoogheem Kampmueller and her kids, and off we went! It was beautiful! Thanks for posting the info.
I really don’t know what I’d do without you guys and these ideas. Now we’re headed for a hike tonight!
Mel – you have officially made my job easier at church as I plan out hikes for our high school students to train on before we head to Colorado. Muchas Gracias sister!
This is so great. We’ve been looking for trails that are near and a little further.
this is so helpful. thank you!