Scenic Trails to Hike Near Traverse City

From easy riverside strolls to bluff-top views, these Northern Michigan scenic hiking trails are perfect for your next adventure.

Looking to stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of Northern Michigan? Traverse City is home to an incredible network of trails that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes—from towering dunes and serene rivers to lush forests and lakefront vistas. Whether you want a peaceful walk or a heart-pumping hike, there’s a trail here for you.

🥾 Top Hiking Trails Near Traverse City

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

Spanning 22 miles through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this multi-use trail is perfect for bikers and hikers alike. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan, meander through forests and dunes, and stop in charming towns like Glen Arbor along the way.

Empire Bluff Trail

This 1.5-mile out-and-back trail is a local favorite for a reason. A moderate climb leads you to a dramatic overlook of Lake Michigan—especially stunning at sunset.

Boardman River Trail

Follow the winding Boardman River on this peaceful 4.5-mile trail just south of Traverse City. It’s an ideal option for beginners or families looking to enjoy Northern Michigan’s quiet, wooded charm.

Pyramid Point Trail

At 2.7 miles, this loop trail includes a steep climb but rewards hikers with one of the best views in the region—looking down from the bluffs onto the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan.

Alligator Hill Trail

This 2.5-mile loop through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers a great blend of forested paths and high points with sweeping views of the lake. Look for the historic logging remnants along the trail.

Grass River Natural Area

Located in nearby Bellaire, this 1,500-acre preserve features boardwalks and easy walking trails through wetlands and hardwood forests. It’s a fantastic spot for birding and nature photography.

Hickory Meadows

Just minutes from downtown Traverse City, Hickory Meadows offers a network of trails with open meadows, wooded hills, and great views of Grand Traverse Bay. It’s perfect for a quick hike or a sunset stroll.

No matter the season, Traverse City area hiking trails deliver unforgettable outdoor experiences. These are just a few of the many scenic hiking trails in the area. From challenging to stroller friendly there is something for everyone to enjoy that fresh Northern Michigan air!

Looking to stay in Traverse City?

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Traverse City? Our vacation home is centrally located, just minutes from Downtown Traverse City. Whether you’re here to relax on the beaches, explore local wineries, or set sail on a sunset cruise, you’ll be right in the heart of it all.

Skip the extra fees—book direct and save! Or, if you prefer, you can reserve your stay through Airbnb.

📅 Ready to plan your getaway? Book now and experience everything the Traverse City area has to offer!

Book Direct & Save | Book on Airbnb

Hello there! I’m Marisa, Patrick’s mom, and I’m here to make sure your stay at Dyer Lake Vacation Home is as delightful as possible. Whether you have questions about the area or need help with anything during your stay, I’m your go-to person. My goal is to ensure you have a fantastic time and enjoy our little slice of heaven.

Our family finally settled in the Traverse City area in 1995 after years of vacationing here. Back in the day, when we were a bustling family of six, finding a suitable cabin was quite the adventure—before the days of the internet. I would call the Visitors Center (now Traverse City Tourism) and patiently wait for mimeographed sheets listing various cabin options. Finding a place that could fit our crew and accommodate our needs was no small feat!

With four kids, two hotel rooms just didn’t cut it, and dining out for every meal added up quickly. We loved having a home base, but finding a well-stocked kitchen with more than the basics felt like winning the lottery. We used to cross our fingers hoping the oven was big enough for a 9×13 pan and that there were at least two working burners on the stove.

Oh, how times have changed! You can leave the old days behind when you stay at Dyer Lake Vacation Home. Patrick, Lauren, and the rest of the family cook here, vacation here and play here. You will find a kitchen that’s well-stocked and ready to handle all your culinary adventures. We’ve got a full-size refrigerator and a stove/oven that actually works! Dyer Lake offers a comfortable place to hang out and a quiet lake for kayaking or lounging lakeside. Enjoy your stay—we’re thrilled to have you here!