Pure Michigan Trails

Adventure Awaits

The North Country National Scenic Trail is a fantastic resource for hiking and nature enthusiasts. With nearly 1,200 miles of NCT in Michigan, there's bound to be a section of trail near you. Learn more about this National Scenic Trail in this episode of Pure Michigan Trails.

In the first of our Pure Michigan Trails video series, we explore the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a 21-mile pathway that connects visitors to the Lakeshore with the neighboring communities of Empire and Glen Arbor, along with the popular attractions and hidden gems found throughout the park.

The Iron Ore Heritage Trail is a 47-mile multi-use trail that connects visitors to five Upper Peninsula communities, as well as the iron mining heritage of the area. The trail welcomes bikers, walkers, runners, hikers, cross-country skiers, and in some places snowmobiles and ORVs. Hop on the path with us and learn about the Iron Ore Heritage Trail.

The Kal-Haven Trail is a shining example of Michigan's vast network of linear trails. The name ""Kal-Haven"" comes from the two cities it connects: Kalamazoo and South Haven. Hop on the converted rail-to-trail pathway and you'll find yourself among the historic rail towns that once welcomed passengers by train, and now welcome visitors who are traveling by bike or on foot. 

Step off the hiking trail and hop into a kayak as we explore Antrim County's Chain of Lakes Water Trail. This flatwater system is a paddler's paradise, made from 12 lakes and interconnected rivers in the northwest corner of Michigan's lower peninsula. With highly visible signage and 84 access sites - including many barrier free access points, your adventure on the Chain of Lakes' 100+ miles of water trail can be as long or short as you want. See why this diverse and unique natural resource is just the beginning of your northern Michigan experience in our newest episode of Pure Michigan Trails. 

Transformed from a former railroad corridor, the Polly Ann Trail extends north from Oakland County’s Orion Township for a total of 16.9 miles. With connections to the Paint Creek Trail and access to parks and public spaces in several communities, residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring the trail’s diverse terrain and scenery. Two paved sections are great for cyclists and are accessible to trail users of all levels of mobility, while more rural sections are perfect for those seeking a respite into nature.

The DTE Energy Foundation Trail is a premiere mountain bike and multi-use trail system in SE Michigan's Waterloo Recreation Area. It consists of four loops, totaling 22 miles of trail for all skill levels.

The Haywire Grade Trail helps connect Lake Michigan to Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula. It's also Michigan's first Rail-Trail. The conversion set a precedent and a roadmap for other trails in Michigan and beyond. In this video, we explore how the trail can be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike, and in all four seasons.