Downtown Traverse City to Hickory Meadows loop

The full loop is approximately 9.3 kilometers (5.7 miles) and generally takes about 2 hours and 26 minutes to complete. This duration is for continuous hiking and does not include stops for breaks or enjoying the scenery.

The entire Downtown Traverse City to Hickory Meadows loop is considered a moderate hike, primarily due to its length and the journey from downtown. While the trails within Hickory Meadows itself are generally easy, the combined distance and elevation gain of the full loop elevate its overall difficulty, making it a more substantial outing.

For the full loop starting from Traverse City, you can find parking in various public lots or on-street parking downtown. If you prefer to start directly at Hickory Meadows, there are trailheads with parking available on M-72 and Randolph Street.

Yes, the trails within Hickory Meadows are popular for dog walking. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles by cleaning up after your pet.

The Hickory Meadows trail system is a popular destination year-round. In summer, you'll enjoy lush meadows and a small frog pond. Winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Each season provides a unique experience, so the 'best' time depends on your preferred activity and scenery.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Downtown Traverse City to Hickory Meadows loop or to access the Hickory Meadows trail system.

The loop offers varied terrain, transitioning from urban streets in Traverse City to the natural landscapes of Hickory Meadows. Within Hickory Meadows, you'll find unpaved paths traversing meadows, woodlands, and hills, with stretches through tall pines and open fields.

Within Hickory Meadows, certain vantage points offer views that feel surprisingly removed from the surrounding city. For broader views, ambitious hikers can extend their outing with a 230-foot climb to the top of Hickory Hill, which is adjacent to the preserve.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails, including the Michigan trail, the Traverse Area Recreational Trail, the Cross Town Bike Route, and the Boardman Lake Trail. This allows for varied scenery and connections to other parts of Traverse City.

There are no restrooms or drinking water facilities directly at the trailheads within Hickory Meadows. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and use facilities in Downtown Traverse City before starting your hike.

Hickory Meadows is a versatile urban trail system. Besides hiking and dog walking, it's popular for mountain biking in the summer. In winter, the trails are used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering year-round outdoor recreation.