Trails and Nature Walks

The sweet smell of spring budding, the wild flowers in bloom in the summer months, the crunch of fall leaves beneath your feet, the feel of the crisp winter air against your cheeks. This is what we love about our northern Michigan trails!

If you’re visiting in the summer, be prepared for everything in full bloom alongside breathtaking views. The fall is hard to beat as forests are bursting with color, while the spring season is a perfect time to take in the budding trees and flowers. Winter has plenty to offer the avid outdoorsman as untouched trails and forests are waiting to be hiked and snowshoed.

You cannot forget about birding in the region either. Each year, people flock to Traverse City to take part in this classic form of wildlife observation.  And they don’t have to travel too far outside of the city because there are bird-friendly habitats within a short distance. Top spots include trails within the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Old Mission Lighthouse Park at the tip of Old the Mission Peninsula and Medalie Park just south of downtown Traverse City.

With thousands of acres of state and national forests and parkland -- including the magnificent Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore -- Traverse City is blessed with miles of trails and pathways that will lead you to your next outdoor adventure!