Directory of Hiking & Walking Trails – Grand Rapids & West Michigan
Hiking West Michigan kids is a snap – so many places to choose from, and so much beautiful scenery at each location that it makes it one of our top choices for recreational activities.
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.
The Parks, Playgrounds & Trails Directory is proudly presented by John Ball Zoo. We are grateful for their support!
Directory of Hiking & Walking Trails – Grand Rapids & West Michigan
Find your next adventure by searching the features below.
← Return to West MI Trails Directory
Park Managed by Kent County Parks
Park Website
Open: Open May 1 - October 31; Open 7 AM to sunset Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leashTrails wind through beautiful trees, wetlands and along the Grand River.
Kids will enjoy seeking out wildlife in the different habitats.
Hiking Trail Details
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Generally considered an easy route, it takes about an hour to walk this 2.6 mile loop.
The natural-surfaced trails wind though wetlands, open fields, forests and along the edge of the river.
Beware that it's on the Grand River flood plane and can get wet and muddy when the water levels are high.
Pack the bug spray!
Trail Difficulty: EasyThe natural-surfaced trails wind though wetlands, open fields, forests and along the edge of the river.
Beware that it's on the Grand River flood plane and can get wet and muddy when the water levels are high.
Pack the bug spray!
Donald J Lamoreaux Park Features & Amentities
Baseball or Softball Diamonds, Fishing Pond, Free Admission, Hiking Trails, Lake or River
Etiquette & Tips for Hiking & Walking Trails
Here are some things to keep in mind while hiking the walking trails in Grand Rapids.
- 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 making any hike an adventure for a child
- Check for ticks when you’re done (Read this helpful info about ticks 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 the live are all the same, and not as varied or well-kept as in Michigan.
So don’t take this place for granted, friends! And don’t wait to experience Michigan in all four wonderful seasons on a trail near you.
West MI Trail Directory »
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Splash Pads & Pools Directory »
Top Michigan Campgrounds
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
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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!