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.
Pickerel Lake Walking Trail in Rockford
Don’t wait to experience Michigan in all four wonderful seasons on a trail near you.
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Hiking & Walking Trails Directory
We’ve got the walking trail info you need in this guide.
Tidbits like how long the trails are, how hard they are, what kind of surface you’ll be walking on, if you can bring your furry friend, and when you can hit the trail, are included.
So, lace up those shoes and get ready to explore West Michigan! Whether you want a chill walk or a tough workout, you’ll find it all here.
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.
Trails by Area
Cascade, Ada & Lowell Walking Paths
East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids & Kentwood Walking Paths
Comstock Park, Rockford, Sparta & Greenville Walking Trails
Byron Center, Caledonia & Hastings Walking Trails
Places to go Walking in Walker, Wyoming, Jenison & Grandville
Places to go Walking in Hudsonville, Zeeland & Allendale
Holland & the Lakeshore Walking Trails
Great Hiking Trail Day Trip Destinations
← Return to West MI Trails Directory
Park Managed by Kalamazoo County
Park Website
Open: Open all year Stroller-Friendly? Yes, all or most areas Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leashThe trail is a work in progress and currently consists of two trails, linked by bike lanes.
The first portion, 4.8 miles in length, travels through shaded wooded areas, over rolling hills and under US-131 via a tunnel, where you'll end up in the western suburbs of Kalamazoo.
The trail then brings you through downtown where there are places to stop and grab a drink or a bite to eat.
The second section of the trail is 16 miles. It is hilly and winds, and part of it runs along the Kalamazoo River. This long portion of the trail will give you a bit of everything - suburbs, river views, parks, historical sites, food and drink stops, fishing and more!
The Walking Paths at Kalamazoo River Valley Trail
Linking Kalamazoo to Galesburg, this asphalt-paved rail-to-trail is 20+ miles.
Kalamazoo River Valley Trail Features & Amentities
Accessible, Dog Friendly, Free Admission, Good for Rollerblading, 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!