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.
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.
Walking 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
← Return to West MI Trails Directory
Park Managed by Ottawa County
Park Website
Open: Open all year, from dawn to dusk. Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leashThere are plenty of fairly easy trails with amazing river views and lots of potential for wildlife sightings!
And don't forget a stop at the Nature Center - the kids will love seeing wildlife in action here!
The Walking Paths at Hemlock Crossing
Across from the main parking lot (by the modern restrooms), you can find another trailhead that leads to some paved paths through a beautiful, sun-filled meadow.
The colors of the flowers are incredible!
This short loop is stroller friendly.
The colors of the flowers are incredible!
This short loop is stroller friendly.
Hiking Trail Details
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Hemlock Crossing has six miles of walking trails that will take you through stunning landscapes.
A start near the pedestrian bridge weaves across the Pigeon River. Follow the shade (pack your bug spray) through the trails here and find some cool boardwalks.
There are plenty of spots to pause and admire the riverside and look for wildlife.
The majority of the trails are not stroller-friendly.
There aren’t any significant stair climbs and just a few moderate inclines, so a baby carrier would be a great addition for hiking Hemlock Crossing.
Trail Difficulty: EasyA start near the pedestrian bridge weaves across the Pigeon River. Follow the shade (pack your bug spray) through the trails here and find some cool boardwalks.
There are plenty of spots to pause and admire the riverside and look for wildlife.
The majority of the trails are not stroller-friendly.
There aren’t any significant stair climbs and just a few moderate inclines, so a baby carrier would be a great addition for hiking Hemlock Crossing.
About the Interpretive Center
The Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing is a popular spot for school field trips, providing educational resources and exhibits for kids of all ages.
Pop in and see the exhibits, the wildlife den, and the wildlife viewing area.
Pop in and see the exhibits, the wildlife den, and the wildlife viewing area.
Facilities at Hemlock Crossing
Modern restrooms available in the parks seasonally, rustic toilets year-round.
Hemlock Crossing Features & Amentities
Dog Friendly, Free Admission, Grills, Hike with a Payoff, Hiking Trails, Interpretive Center, Lake or River, Paved Walking Path, Picnic Tables, Restrooms, River Access for Boat Launch
Great Hiking Trail Day Trip Destinations
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
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!