Easy hikes and walks in Huron-Manistee National Forest

The Lumbermens Monument via Highbanks Hiking Trail offers a delightful journey along the Au Sable River, where you'll find yourself walking through forests and past sand dunes with sweeping views of the water. The path itself is mostly level, but you have the option to tackle nearly 300 steps down to Iargo Springs or 260 steps at the Lumbermens Monument for a more challenging descent to the river's edge. This easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) hike, with only 108 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes, making it a great choice for a scenic, low-impact outing.

Planning your visit to the Lumbermens Monument Highbanks Hiking Trail is straightforward, as it's accessible year-round and well-maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. While there are no permits required, consider visiting in the fall when the foliage along the river valley is particularly stunning. The Lumbermens Monument itself has a visitor center and picnic areas, providing a convenient base for your adventure.

Beyond the natural beauty, this trail is steeped in history, featuring the impressive Lumbermens Monument dedicated to Michigan's 19th-century logging industry. You'll also discover Iargo Springs, a historically significant water source for logging camps, now a beautiful spot with boardwalks and observation decks. Keep an eye out for bald eagles nesting in the area, especially during spring and summer, adding a wildlife spotting bonus to your hike.

The North Ottawa Dunes South Loop offers a delightful easy hike through Michigan's unique wooded dune landscape. This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) route, with its gentle 228 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through shaded forests and over rolling hills. You'll experience varied terrain, including some winding paths and occasional roots, leading to elevated spots where you can catch glimpses of Lake Michigan and the Grand River valley, showcasing the North Ottawa Dunes South Loop's natural features.

Planning your visit is simple, with convenient parking at the trailhead and restrooms available during warmer seasons. The entire loop typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a shorter outing. Keep in mind that these trails are reserved for foot traffic only, preserving a quiet atmosphere, though cross-country skiing is an option in winter.

This trail is part of a much larger network of nearly 10 miles of trails, connecting to other natural areas like P.J. Hoffmaster State Park. The 593 acres of wooded dunes are home to significant topography, including parabolic dune formations, and offer a rich habitat for wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and deer. It's a great way to experience the region's unique ecosystem.

The North Country Trail: M-20 to Echo Drive offers a delightful and easy hiking experience through Michigan's varied landscapes. You'll wander through mixed hardwood and pine forests, cross impressive bridges over the White River and Rattlesnake Creek, and traverse unique wetlands on long puncheon-style boardwalks. This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) route, with only 44 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this easy trail. It's exclusively for hikers, so you won't encounter bikes or horses. Reliable water sources are present along the route, which is a nice bonus. The best times to hike are late summer for wild blueberries or fall for spectacular foliage, offering a beautiful backdrop for your journey. Parking is available at both the M-20 trailhead and the Alley Lake parking spur.

This segment is part of the much larger North Country National Scenic Trail, one of the longest continuous hiking trails in the United States. Newaygo County, where this trail is located, boasts about 70 miles of the NCT. The wetlands near Rattlesnake Creek are notable as habitat for the federally threatened Massasauga rattlesnake, adding an ecological significance to your walk through the cedar swamps.

Explore the peaceful woodlands and open meadows of the Hungerford Lake Recreation Area Cross Country Ski Trails, a multi-use network that provides a refreshing escape. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hiking route guides you through a mix of oak, maple, and pine forests, occasionally opening up to scenic fields. With only 105 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, it is a gentle journey that takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes, perfect for a leisurely outing.

Planning your visit to this popular area is straightforward, with clear signage including diamond-shaped markers and "you are here" maps at trail intersections. The recreation area offers ample parking and even camping facilities if you want to make a weekend of it. While it is a cross-country ski trail in winter, it is a fantastic hiking destination from spring through fall, especially for those seeking easy hiking trails in the Hungerford Lake Recreation Area.

What makes this area special is its expansive 6,500 acres of non-motorized National Forest System lands, ensuring a tranquil experience away from vehicle noise. The trails are shared with mountain bikers and horseback riders in warmer months, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to see the picturesque Beaver Pond, a highlight along the way, or to visit in autumn for truly spectacular fall colors.