The best walks and hikes in Mackinac County

Yes, many trails are great for families. The region has numerous easy-rated walks, especially on the mainland. For a very short and manageable outing, consider the Castle Rock Trail — Hiawatha National Forest, which is less than a mile long and offers a rewarding view.

Dog policies can vary. On the mainland, trails within Hiawatha National Forest and Straits State Park are generally dog-friendly, but they must be leashed. However, Mackinac Island State Park has specific regulations, so it's essential to check their official website for the most current rules before you and your furry friend visit the island.

Mackinac Island offers a unique, car-free experience with over 70 miles of trails through historic parkland, past limestone bluffs, and along the coast. The mainland provides a different kind of adventure, with trails in areas like Hiawatha National Forest and Straits State Park, offering a more remote, deep-woods feel characteristic of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Absolutely. The area is well-suited for loop hikes, which allow you to enjoy a varied landscape without retracing your steps. A great moderate option on the island is the Griffin Cove – Mackinac Island State Park loop, which covers about 6 miles of beautiful island scenery.

Summer offers warm weather perfect for exploring the coastline. However, autumn is particularly spectacular, as the forests display vibrant fall colors. Spring is also a great option, with fewer crowds and the chance to see migratory birds. Winters are cold but offer opportunities for snowshoeing on the trails.

For mainland trails, such as those in St. Ignace or Hiawatha National Forest, you can drive and will typically find parking near the trailheads. To access Mackinac Island, you must take a ferry as it is a car-free island. Once on the island, all trails are accessible on foot or by renting a bicycle.

Yes, a section of the North Country National Scenic Trail, one of the longest hiking paths in the United States, passes through Mackinac County. You can experience a part of it within Straits State Park in St. Ignace, which offers fantastic views of the Mackinac Bridge.

The diverse habitats of Mackinac County support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, foxes, and a wide array of bird species, especially during the spring and fall migrations across the Straits of Mackinac. While black bears inhabit the Upper Peninsula, sightings on trails are uncommon, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.

Many trails offer stunning vistas. For a rewarding climb, the hike to Fort Holmes, the highest point on Mackinac Island, provides panoramic views. The trails around the highly-regarded Arch Rock also offer iconic views over Lake Huron. On the mainland, Straits State Park provides incredible perspectives of the Mackinac Bridge.

The region is known for its unique geology. On Mackinac Island, you can hike to impressive limestone formations like Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf Rock. The Sugar Loaf View – Skull Cave loop is a great way to see some of these inland features. Mainland trails often feature dense cedar forests and the beautiful shorelines of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

There are over 20 curated hiking routes in Mackinac County available on komoot. These range from short, easy walks under a mile to more challenging moderate hikes over 10 miles, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful shoreline views along the Great Lakes, and the peaceful, immersive experience of walking through the dense forests on both the island and the mainland.