Newcomer’s Guide to Michigan’s Best Outdoor Activities in 2023

We all long to return to nature occasionally and need some movement to escape routine and get some energy flowing. Michigan has diverse natural landscapes, providing a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a break from your busy schedule, Michigan offers something for everyone! This article will look closely at some of Michigan’s best outdoor activities to inspire you for the next adventure.

Hiking

Michigan’s national parks boast more than 4,020 miles of state-designated hiking trails, offering scenic views and diverse terrain for hikers of all skill levels. One of the most popular hiking destinations is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located northwest of Michigan’s Lowe Peninsula. This area is crisscrossed by 100 miles of hiking trails and is suitable for those who prefer relaxing nature walks to circuits around North and South Manitou Islands but also for more experienced hikers who will enjoy the challenging but popular Dunes Hiking trail.

Another great hiking destination is the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which spreads across 60 000 acres in the western Upper Peninsula. The park’s rugged terrain and stunning vistas make it a favorite among serious hikers, with over 90 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous. The Lake of the Clouds Trail is a must-see, offering breathtaking views of the park’s iconic lake and surrounding mountains.

Mackinac Island is a popular destination for history lovers who prefer a more historic hiking experience. Located in the Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, the island features over 80 miles of hiking and biking trails and numerous historical landmarks and attractions. The island is also known for its fudge shops and horse-drawn carriage tours.

Biking

Michigan is known to be one of the most biking-friendly states in the nation. The varied landscape and dedicated biking trails make it a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. The Kal-Haven Trail, located in southwest Michigan, is a 34-mile paved trail from Kalamazoo to South Haven. The trail passes through quaint towns and picturesque countryside, making it a popular destination for leisure and serious cyclists. The trail is flat and accessible, making it one of Michigan’s best outdoor activities for beginners. 

The Pere Marquette Rail Trail is another popular biking destination, stretching 30 miles from Clare to Baldwin in central Michigan. The paved trail offers stunning views of the state’s rural landscape, with stops in lovely towns and scenic natural areas. Michigan mountain bike trails welcome all mountain bikers, no matter what their skill level is. Many of them are approachable for beginners and less experienced riders. For mountain bikers, the Copper Harbor Trails in Michingan’s Upper Peninsula are must-see. The network of single-track trails offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and challenging terrain for experienced riders.

Winter Activities

Michigan is a dream destination for those looking forward to the winter season. Winters might be cold but offer plenty of choice for outdoor activities and adventures. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Michigan’s snow-covered forests and trails. Many parks and trails throughout the state offer snowshoe rentals and guided tours. The Tahquamenon Falls State Park, located in the Upper Peninsula, is a favorite snowshoe destination, with trails that take visitors through amazing winter wonderlands.

Ice fishing is another great winter activity to be experienced in Michigan. Its stunning lakes and rivers can welcome a lot of ice-fishing lovers. You can catch fish such as walleye, perch, and northern pike. Just ensure to check the ice conditions before heading out and have the proper equipment, including a warm ice shanty and an auger to drill through the ice.

If you are not afraid of an adrenaline rush, you will want to try out snowmobiling. Michigan has over 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, including the Upper Peninsula’s famous snowmobile trail system. These trails take riders through forests, across frozen lakes, and along scenic vistas. With proper safety gear and training, snowmobiling can be an exciting way to experience Michigan’s winter wonders. Best Long Distance Movers advise trying out riding fat tire bikes, visiting frozen waterfalls, or climbing – free schools for beginners are provided, so you have nothing to worry about even if it is your first time on these activities.

Water Sports

You can’t miss Michigan’s wonderful waters if you want to get a sense of the overall lifestyle there. Its location on the Great Lakes and abundance of island lakes and rivers make it an ideal destination for water sports lovers. Lake Michigan and Lake Huron are popular places for boating, fishing, and kayaking, with numerous marinas and outfitters offering rentals and guided tours. The Au Sable River, located in northern Michigan, is a favorite among fly fishing enthusiasts, with miles of beautiful waterways and an abundant fish population.

For adventurous personalities looking for a unique water sports experience, stand-up paddleboarding and kiteboarding are becoming popular in Michigan. Stand-up paddleboarding offers a low-impact workout and the chance to explore the state’s waterways from a new perspective, while kiteboarding provides a thrilling, unforgettable ride. Trying jet skiing on gorgeous waterfronts or exploring the underwater world through scuba diving will surely turn into life-long memories. 

Michigan’s beaches are another appealing destination for water lovers. The state features over 3,200 miles of freshwater coastline, with plenty of public beaches and parks. The Warren Dunes State Park, located in southwest Michigan, is a must-visit for those who enjoy the beach, offering miles of sandy shoreline and towering sand dunes.

There is no doubt adventurous types will be drawn to explore Michigan. If you are considering relocation where you could continue or even enrich your active lifestyle, make sure to join forces with experts and look for an experienced moving company to make the transition as smooth and easy as possible.

Final Words About Michigan’s Best Outdoor Activities

Hopefully, this guide to Michigan’s best outdoor activities made you want to try and experience something new. Now see for yourself where your next adventure takes place!