The Best Hiking Trails in Michigan

Beginning in Rock Harbor, the Stoll Trail wanders through dense forests and along rocky coastlines bound for a spectacular overlook at Scoville Point. With expansive views to the south and east, "it's a beautiful spot where you can sit on the rock bluffs, soak in the sun, and watch the boaters and kayakers pass through on their way to Rock Harbor," according to [this source](https://www....

The Windigo Nature Trail is a family-friendly hike on the southwest corner of Isle Royale and one of the best short hikes in the park. It's the perfect option to stretch the legs before or after a long boat ride, and it includes views of Washington Harbor, Beaver Island, and even a moose enclosure not far from the trailhead....

Hunters Point is a quick hike that yields rewarding views instantly! This short peninsula helps separate the harbor that gives the town of Copper Harbor its name from the wide-open waters of Lake Superior....

The hike to the Empire Bluff Overlook is short and easy, but that doesn't make the views any less impressive! When you reach the overlook, you'll be standing on top of a perched dune that rises over 400 feet above Lake Michigan....

Part of the Hiawatha National Forest, Grand Island is a one of a kind destination. The island is only accessible by boat, specifically a ferry that departs from Munising on a seasonal basis....

Nestled along the edge of a steep bluff, Lookout Louise is one of the most coveted and spectacular viewpoints anywhere in Isle Royale National Park. Looking east from the overlook, enjoy views of "the jagged peninsulas at the end of Duncan Bay....

An inland sea arch carved by the crashing waves of Lake Superior, Suzy's Cave is one of the top destinations for a day hike from Rock Harbor. Formed "some 4000 years ago when water levels were higher," this classic hike in Isle Royal NP doubles as a shorter version of the difficult 10-mile trek to [Mount Franklin](https://fatmap....

Starting from Windigo, Huginnin Cove is a beautiful 10-mile loop winding through forested wetlands with a high likelihood of viewing a moose. Turn it into an overnight trip with the appropriate [permit](https://www....

Hike across ridgelines, along boardwalks, and enjoy epic views from a lookout tower on Mount Ojibway on this classic day hike in Isle Royal NP. Starting at a dock and adjacent campground, the circuit pairs the Mount Ojibway Trail, Daisy Farm Trail, and a portion of the [Greenstone Ridge Trail](https://fatmap....

Mount Franklin is a long day hike from Rock Harbor and sometimes used as "the entry ramp for hikers tackling the [Greenstone Ridge Trail](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2707778/greenstone-ridge-trail)," according to [this source](https://www.michigantrailmaps.com/member-detail/isle-royale-np-mount-franklin-trail/). Less of a defined summit and more of an exposed bluff, the vista towers above Lake Superior and awards views as far as Canada on a clear day....

Connecting Rock Harbor to Windigo by way of a long ridgeline, the Greenstone Ridge Trail is the cornerstone of Isle Royale's hiking trails. Acclaimed as "the state's best long-distance hike" by [this source](https://www....

The Minong Ridge Trail is "not only the most challenging stretch of the Isle Royale's 161-mile trail system, but arguably the hardest hike in Michigan," [this source proclaims](https://www.flickr.com/photos/peterzuni/3813727928/in/photolist-6NWbMr-6P1mdA-6P1mww-6P1mrN-6P1m4W/)! Paralleling the iconic Greenstone Ridge Trail to the north, this 26+ mile multi-day hike offers a premier backcountry experience with exposed ridgetop views and endless rock cairns to guide you along the ridge....