50+ Grand Rapids Hiking & Walking Trails That are Perfect for All Ages

Walking Trails and Hiking Spots in West Michigan - Rosy Mound Grand Haven

Hiking & Walking Trails – Grand Rapids & West Michigan

How often have you gotten the urge to go for a hike, but didn’t know where to go?

There are so many well-kept trails in West Michigan to choose from, with rivers, lakes, mature forests, dunes, bridges and more. When you’re looking for outdoor things to do in West Michigan, which hike should you try today?

We’ve tracked down all the best hikes and walking trails and grouped them by area to help you find your next adventure.

Tidbits like how long the trails are, how hard they are, what kind of surface you’ll be walking on, and if you can bring your dog are included.

Pickerel Lake Park
Pickerel Lake Walking Trail in Rockford

So, lace up those shoes and get ready to explore West Michigan!

Hiking & Walking Parks Directory

Don’t wait to experience Michigan in all four wonderful seasons on a trail near you – we’ve got the walking trail info you need in this guide.

Whether you want a chill walk or a tough workout, West Michigan has it.

PS – 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.

Cascade, Ada & Lowell Walking Paths

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East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids & Kentwood Walking Paths

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Comstock Park, Rockford, Sparta & Greenville Walking Trails

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Byron Center, Caledonia & Hastings Walking Trails

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Places to go Walking in Walker, Wyoming, Jenison & Grandville

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Places to go Walking in Hudsonville, Zeeland & Allendale

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Holland & the Lakeshore Walking Trails

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Great Hiking Trail Day Trip Destinations

Park Managed by State of Michigan

About Ludington State Park in Northern Michigan
8800 M116, Ludington MI 49431
Park Website
Open: Open all year, from 8 AM to 10 PM
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leash
Pack up the family and your beach gear and head up for a great day at Ludington State Park.

Kids and parents will have a ball playing at the beaches, hiking the sand dunes, exploring the many trails and having lunch staring at the gorgeous views of the lakes!

The Playground at Ludington State Park

Playground available at Hamlin Lake.

Hiking Trail Details
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking trails are extensive and varied - from 30 minute to three hour hikes.

Each of the eight trails (covered 18 miles total) has natural terrain, but varies in skill level and length. Plus each trail has different, unique features.

You can hike alongside marshes or the beach, through the woods or over sand dunes.

Stop to explore Big Sable Point Lighthouse, launch a kayak or rent a boat at Hamlin Lake, learn historical and natural facts about Ludington State Park or fish along the river or dam.

Change it up and explore watery coves and small islands connected with foot bridges or along the boardwalk. Hike through the air on the completely elevated Skyline Trail where you might be able to see 20 miles to Silver Lake State Park.

Get a Trails Map in advance to get specific trail details, including length and hike time.

Facilities at Ludington State Park
Picnic shelter and restrooms available at Hamlin Lake.

Ludington State Park Features & Amentities
Beach, Boat Rental, Concessions, Dog Friendly, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Center, Lake or River, Parking Fee, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restrooms, River Access for Boat Launch



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

Hemlock Crossings trail in West Olive even has a beaver dam!

Tips for Using Hiking & Walking Trails

Keep these tips in mind while hiking the walking trails of Grand Rapids.

lake michigan saugatuck dunes state park
Saugatuck Dunes State Park trail
  1. It’s common courtesy to stay on the right side of the path when others are approaching.
  2. Wait your turn on the stairs.
  3. Pack in and pack out your trash.
  4. Bring sunscreen and bug spray (we keep a set in the trunk of our car so we’re always prepared!)
  5. Bring water for everyone.
  6. Binoculars and/or a compass can make any hike an adventure.
  7. Check for ticks when you’re done

More Outdoor Fun

West MI Trail Directory »
Best Michigan Beaches for Kids »
Splash Pads & Pools Directory »
Top Michigan Campgrounds

About The Author

7 thoughts on “50+ Grand Rapids Hiking & Walking Trails That are Perfect for All Ages”

  1. Be careful when going to aman park. You will need bug spray. Lots of mosquitoes!! Other than that highly recommended 🙂

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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!

  5. This is so great. We’ve been looking for trails that are near and a little further.
    this is so helpful. thank you!

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