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
Great Hiking Trail Day Trip Destinations
← Return to West MI Trails Directory
Park Managed by Eaton County
Park Website
Open: Open all year, from 8 AM to dusk Stroller-Friendly? No, few or no areas, Playground or main areas only Dogs Allowed? Yes, on leashThe nature trails lead to stunning views, the kids have plenty of places to play, photo ops are top notch and there is no shortage of things to do here - from disc golf to kayaking to a fish ladder and more.
This wonderful park is best known as the home of the “Ledges”—ancient sedimentary rock outcroppings lining the shores of the Grand River.
Facilities include six picnic sites, three miles of trails, volleyball, basketball, playground. Kayak launch for privately owned boats.
It's just a 40-minute drive for those used to hiking in Grand Rapids.
The Playground at Fitzgerald Park
Two playgrounds are available - one for older kids and one for smaller. Playground surface is sand.
Hiking Trail Details
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Trails are plentiful here. Be sure to use the restroom before exploring, as the park is huge and there are miles of walking trails.
The trail to the ledges (ancient sedimentary rock outcroppings lining the shores of the Grand River) can be a little tricky to find - find the paved path near the Ledges Playhouse to start this trail.
Trail Difficulty: ModerateThe trail to the ledges (ancient sedimentary rock outcroppings lining the shores of the Grand River) can be a little tricky to find - find the paved path near the Ledges Playhouse to start this trail.
Facilities at Fitzgerald Park
Park has multiple shelters and places to picnic. Restrooms are not heated, and thus are closed during the winter - at that time, portable restrooms are available.
What's Unique About Fitzgerald Park?
The biggest draw to the park are the ancient ledges (sedimentary rocks), which are reached via the nature trails along the Grand River. They are stunning and are perfect photo backdrops!
Fitzgerald Park Features & Amentities
Baseball or Softball Diamonds, Basketball Court, Disc Golf, Dog Friendly, Grills, Hike with a Payoff, Hiking Trails, Horseshoe Pit, Lake or River, Parking Fee, Pavilion, Picnic Tables, Playground, Restrooms, River Access for Boat Launch, Sand Volleyball, Shaded, Soccer Fields, Tennis Courts, Toddler Playground
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!