Hiking in Traverse City

Stroll through a shady forest at the Miller Creek Nature Preserve or the Sand Lakes Quiet Area -- and if you prefer wide open spaces, try a hike to Pyramid Point or Empire Bluffs at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. If you’d just like to tour Traverse City from a different perspective, enjoy the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trail, whose signature paved pathway stretches east-west across the city. For another urban perspective, head over to the trails at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. The towering trees and acres of marked paths loop around and connect with one another making for a fun and never boring hike. 

Almost all of the hiking trails in Traverse City are accessible in the winter, but it’s always best to check ahead of time before heading out.

The TART Trail is a great paved option for an easy walk or roll through the city, and Miller Creek Nature Preserve offers a relaxed stroll through shaded forest. The trails at Grand Traverse Commons are also well-marked and range in difficulty, making them a great starting point for casual hikers. Almost all hiking trails in the area are accessible in winter too, though it's worth checking conditions ahead of time.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is about 30–45 minutes (driving) from downtown Traverse City and has some of the best hiking in the region. Pyramid Point and Empire Bluffs are two standout trails offering epic Lake Michigan views.