Hawk Island County Park

The Lansing River Trail offers a delightful urban hike, tracing the banks of the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers. You'll experience a mix of comfortable parks, vibrant urban centers, and peaceful woodlands, often on paved paths and boardwalks that minimize interaction with traffic. This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) route, with only 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely 1 hour and 3 minute stroll, providing continuous water views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Planning your visit is simple, with public parking readily available at regular intervals along the trail. While the trail is generally well-maintained, it's worth noting that some downtown sections may occasionally need repair, and heavy rains can lead to localized flooding. For the best experience, consider visiting during the fall to enjoy the changing foliage, though it's accessible and enjoyable throughout the year.

This extensive multi-use trail is a true gem, connecting various parts of Lansing and East Lansing, including the Michigan State University campus and Hawk Island Park. It's also home to notable features like the Brenke Fish Ladder, where you can observe spawning salmon and steelhead in September, and the historic Turner-Dodge House, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural interest.

The Hawk Island County Park – Hawk Island Lake loop offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, blending paved paths with natural scenery. You'll enjoy views of Hawk Island Lake, pass through wooded sections, and potentially spot wildlife along the way, especially in areas like Scott Woods Park. This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) route involves a minimal 70 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes, making it a perfect outing for a relaxed stroll.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking at Hawk Island County Park. While there's a vehicle entrance fee, pedestrians can enter for free before 8:00 AM. The trail is well-maintained and cleared even in winter, ensuring year-round enjoyment, and dogs are permitted on leash in most areas, though not near the beach or splash pad.

What makes this route stand out is its versatility and family-friendly amenities. Hawk Island County Park is packed with activities like a beach, splash pad, and playgrounds in warmer months, transforming into a popular snow-tubing spot in winter. Its connection to the larger Lansing River Trail system also opens up possibilities for longer excursions, making it a great starting point for exploring more of the best loop hikes near Lansing MI.