The best walks and hikes around Manitowoc
4.6
(6)
24
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around Manitowoc offers diverse landscapes, from the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline to unique glacial topography. The region features varied terrain including riverine environments, woodlands, and distinctive ridges and swales. These natural features provide a range of hiking experiences for different skill levels.
Best hiking trails around Manitowoc
- The most popular hiking route is Ice Age Trail: Point Beach Segment, a 9.6 miles (15.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours 53 minutes to complete. This moderate route features diverse…
Last updated: July 22, 2026
1
hikers
15.4km
03:53
20m
20m
Embark on a moderate hiking adventure along the Ice Age Trail: Point Beach Segment, a 9.6-mile (15.4 km) route that winds through diverse landscapes. You will experience sandy footpaths, deep…
21.6km
05:35
120m
120m
The Ice Age Trail: Manitowoc Segment offers a challenging hike, spanning 13.4 miles (21.6 km) with an elevation gain of 388 feet (118 metres). This difficult route takes approximately 5…
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4.2
(5)
7
hikers
3.66km
00:55
0m
0m
Embark on an easy hike along the Mariners Trail, a paved route stretching 2.3 miles (3.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 16 feet (5 metres). You can…
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
7.08km
01:47
0m
0m
Explore the Ice Age Trail: Dunes Segment, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) hike that takes you through a varied landscape. You'll experience mixed woodlands, dense cedar forests, and open…
1
hikers
29.9km
07:31
20m
20m
Embark on a challenging journey along the Ice Age Trail: Point Beach Segment, a difficult hiking route that stretches for 18.6 miles (29.9 km). You will experience varied terrain, winding…
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Popular around Manitowoc
Tips from the Community
For over 164 years, the Manitowoc North Breakwater Lighthouse has guided boats in and out of Manitowoc Harbor. It was built in 1839, and the original brick structure stood on a high hill at the corner of 5th and York Streets near the Manitowoc River. Hikers can enjoy beautiful views from Lighthouse Park and walk the breakwater for an up-close look at this historic beacon.
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Lighthouse Park, located just off the Mariners Trail, features a newly constructed public bathroom and pavilion, the Manitowoc Breakwater Lighthouse, and the Paws and Play Dog Park. Open seven days a week, the park is pet- and family-friendly, offering convenient parking and easy access to visit the Manitowoc North Breakwater Lighthouse.
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From this paved walkway, hikers can enjoy stunning views of Manitowoc Harbor on the west shore of Lake Michigan. This deep-draft commercial harbor, protected by over 4,100 feet of breakwaters and piers, offers fantastic vantage points for watching boats and sunsets.
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Located on the banks of Lake Michigan in Manitowoc, this museum gives you a great insight into the region's maritime history. There are lots of things to discover, including a submarine and a battleship. The museum is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday to Monday.
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Henry Schuette Park in Manitowoc offers an upper park with a large, fenced-in playground, restrooms, picnic areas, and grills. The lower park is a nature preserve with extensive hiking and biking trails, a kayak launch, and a section of the historic Ice Age Trail. Enjoy shady, tree-covered paths and sunny, warmer sections, or in the winter, explore the trails on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
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Woodland Dunes State Natural Area is known for its high biodiversity and is referred to as a “tension zone” where northern and southern plant and bird species overlap. This peaceful area has the Ice Age Trail passing through it and more looped trails to explore.
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The Dunes Segment of the Ice Age Trail is on a 1,200-acre Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve. This area offers hiking in marshland, swamps, sandy meadows, and wooded ridges. The forests here are white birch, aspen, beech, and hemlock trees.
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Located on the banks of Lake Michigan in Manitowoc, this museum gives you a great insight into the region's maritime history. There are lots of things to discover, including a submarine and a battleship. The museum is open from 10am until 4pm Thursday to Monday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Manitowoc?
Manitowoc offers a diverse selection of over 10 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore the region's unique landscapes, from Lake Michigan shoreline paths to glacial kettle moraine terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Manitowoc's hiking trails?
Manitowoc's trails feature a mix of landscapes. You'll find scenic paths along the Lake Michigan shoreline, trails winding through the rugged glacial kettle moraine at Walla Hi County Park, and routes exploring riverine environments with bluffs and ravines, such as those near the Manitowoc River.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Manitowoc?
Yes, Manitowoc has several easy hiking options. The Mariners Trail is a popular, hard-surfaced path along Lake Michigan, perfect for a relaxed stroll. The Ice Age Trail: Dunes Segment also offers an accessible, easy experience.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking in Manitowoc?
Hikers can explore diverse natural features. The Point Beach State Forest offers unique ridges and swales, while Lower Cato Falls County Park features a narrow gorge with rock formations and a waterfall. The Mariners Trail provides continuous views of Lake Michigan and the Manitowoc North Breakwater Lighthouse.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Manitowoc?
Absolutely. The Mariners Trail is ideal for families due to its paved surface and scenic lake views. Within Point Beach State Forest, the 0.5-mile Swales Nature Trail is excellent for spotting wildflowers and birds, offering an easy and engaging experience for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on hiking trails in Manitowoc?
Many trails in Manitowoc are dog-friendly, provided they are kept on a leash. This includes popular routes like the Mariners Trail and trails within Point Beach State Forest. Always check specific park regulations before heading out, as rules can vary.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in the Manitowoc area?
Yes, you can find a waterfall at Lower Cato Falls County Park. This park offers hiking and nature trails that lead to a unique river gorge with impressive rock formations and a waterfall, providing scenic views from overlooks.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Manitowoc?
Hiking in Manitowoc is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring through fall. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. The Lake Michigan shoreline trails, like the Mariners Trail, benefit from cool lake breezes during summer. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on groomed trails, but requires appropriate gear.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Manitowoc?
Parking is generally available at trailheads and county parks throughout Manitowoc. For instance, Point Beach State Forest and county parks like Walla Hi County Park and Lower Cato Falls County Park offer designated parking areas. The Mariners Trail also has multiple access points with parking.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Manitowoc?
Yes, within Point Beach State Forest, you can find connecting loops like the Ridges Trail (Red, Blue, and Yellow Loops) which offer varying distances for circular hikes. These trails provide a diverse experience through the forest's unique terrain.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Manitowoc?
The trails in Manitowoc are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene Lake Michigan shoreline to the unique glacial features and wooded riverine paths, offering a variety of experiences for all hikers.
Can I access hiking trails in Manitowoc using public transport?
While some trails, particularly those closer to urban centers like parts of the Ice Age Trail: Manitowoc Segment and the Mariners Trail, might be accessible via local bus routes, many of the more remote park and forest trails are best reached by car. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific routes and stops.
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