10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Michigan for Nature Lovers
10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Michigan for Nature Lovers
Are you looking for a unique outdoor adventure in Michigan? Look no further! Michigan is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes, hidden gems, and outdoor activities that you won't find anywhere else. From crystal-clear lakes to breathtaking forests, there are plenty of awe-inspiring outdoor activities that will make your trip to Michigan truly unforgettable. In this blog post, we'll share 10 must-visit hidden gems in Michigan that are perfect for nature lovers. Read on to discover the best outdoor destinations Michigan has to offer!
1) Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
If you're a nature lover, then Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-visit spot in Michigan. Located along the shores of Lake Superior, this stunning park is a true hidden gem that offers an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
The park is named after the colorful sandstone cliffs that tower above the lake, which offer a breathtaking view. You can take a hike along the shoreline and witness the awe-inspiring views of these majestic cliffs, or even kayak along the water for a unique perspective.
If you're up for a challenge, take on the Pictured Rocks: Lakeshore Trail part of the North Country Trail, a 42-mile hike that takes you through the heart of the park's wilderness area. This trail offers a variety of terrain, from rugged rocky outcrops to dense forests and serene waterfalls.
If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, take a leisurely stroll through the park's lush green forests, or even hop on a boat tour to see the cliffs from a different angle. Whatever your preference, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a true hidden gem that every nature lover should experience.
2) Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Located in the northwest part of the Lower Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Michigan. The park is famous for its massive sand dunes that tower over the coastline of Lake Michigan. The dunes offer incredible views of the surrounding area, and visitors can hike, bike, or drive along scenic Pierce Stocking Drive to reach the top.
One of the most popular activities at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is watching the sunset over Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views from various vantage points along the shoreline. The park also has miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and dunes. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a particularly beautiful route that takes visitors along the lakefront and through the forest.
In addition to its natural beauty, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also has a rich history. The area was once home to the Anishinaabe people, and there are still sacred sites and burial grounds within the park. Visitors can learn about the area's history and culture at the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Center.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has something for everyone. It's the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway, and it's sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
3) Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Located in the eastern part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to the Tahquamenon River and its stunning waterfall. The park boasts 50,000 acres of pristine wilderness, making it a nature lover's paradise.
The park's centerpiece is undoubtedly the Tahquamenon Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The falls drop 50 feet and span 200 feet across, creating an impressive display of natural beauty. The water is a unique amber color due to tannins from the surrounding trees, creating a striking visual contrast against the lush green foliage.
There are many hiking trails within the park, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks through the forest. The River Trail is a popular choice, taking visitors on a scenic 4.2-mile hike along the Tahquamenon River. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to see various wildlife, including deer and beavers.
In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and camping in the park. There are several campgrounds available, with both rustic and modern amenities.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a hidden gem in Michigan that offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape, this park is definitely worth a visit.
4) Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
For those looking for a rugged, wild, and scenic outdoor adventure, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a must-visit hidden gem in Michigan. Located in the western Upper Peninsula, this park boasts more than 60,000 acres of forests, rivers, lakes, and waterfalls that are perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
One of the most popular trails in the park is the Lake of the Clouds Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the park's namesake mountains, Lake of the Clouds, and the surrounding forests. For a more challenging hike, the Escarpment Trail offers steep climbs and panoramic vistas of the Lake Superior shoreline.
The park is also home to several stunning waterfalls, including the 90-foot-long and 50-foot-high Bond Falls and the 40-foot-long and 25-foot-high Manabezho Falls. Visitors can enjoy fishing for trout in the park's many rivers and streams, or kayaking and canoeing on the serene waters of Lake Superior and Mirror Lake.
Camping in the Porcupine Mountains is a unique experience, as the park offers backcountry, rustic, and modern campsites. For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, the Union Bay Campground has electrical hookups, showers, and a playground.
No matter what your level of outdoor expertise, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park has something to offer everyone. From scenic vistas to rugged trails, this hidden gem in Michigan is a nature lover's paradise.
5) Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is a charming, car-free island located in Lake Huron between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The island is accessible by ferry, and once you arrive, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. With historic architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, Mackinac Island is a hidden gem for nature lovers.
One of the best ways to explore Mackinac Island is by bicycle. The island is only eight miles around, and there are no cars allowed, so biking is the perfect way to take in the scenery at your own pace. Be sure to check out the island's many parks and trails, including Fort Holmes and British Landing Nature Center.
Mackinac Island is also home to the iconic Grand Hotel, a historic Victorian-style hotel that has been in operation since 1887. While you may not be able to stay at the Grand Hotel (unless you're willing to pay a pretty penny), you can still take a tour of the hotel's impressive grounds and enjoy the hotel's famous afternoon tea.
Of course, no visit to Mackinac Island is complete without trying some of the island's famous fudge. Mackinac Island is known for its many fudge shops, and you'll find flavors ranging from classic chocolate to more unique options like lavender and bacon.
Whether you're looking to soak up some history, explore the island's natural beauty, or simply relax and enjoy the island's unique charm, Mackinac Island is a must-visit hidden gem for nature lovers.
6) Kitch-iti-kipi
One of Michigan's most enchanting natural wonders, Kitch-iti-kipi is a crystal clear spring in the Upper Peninsula that's perfect for nature lovers looking to explore the state's hidden gems.
Also known as "The Big Spring," Kitch-iti-kipi is a breathtakingly beautiful natural attraction located in Palms Book State Park. The spring is surrounded by lush green forests and is one of the largest freshwater springs in Michigan.
Visitors to Kitch-iti-kipi can take a ride on a self-operated observation raft, which glides across the serene water and offers a unique vantage point from which to take in the natural beauty of the spring. As the raft moves across the water, visitors can peer down into the depths of the spring, where they'll see schools of fish swimming among the clear blue waters and the mossy rocks at the bottom.
In addition to the spring itself, Kitch-iti-kipi is surrounded by hiking trails and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family day trip or an adventurous solo outing. Don't forget to bring your camera, as the picturesque surroundings and sparkling water make for some truly breathtaking photo opportunities.
Whether you're an avid nature lover or just looking for a unique and beautiful spot to explore in Michigan, Kitch-iti-kipi is definitely worth a visit. Be sure to add it to your list of must-see hidden gems in the Great Lakes State.
7) Ludington State Park
Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Ludington State Park is a hidden gem in Michigan that offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. With over 5,300 acres of lush forests, sandy beaches, and picturesque dunes, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
One of the highlights of Ludington State Park is its pristine beach, which stretches for miles along the coastline. The soft sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the park has plenty of hiking trails that wind through the woods and dunes. The Island Trail, which takes you through a wooded island surrounded by marshes, is a favorite among visitors. You can also climb the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ludington State Park also has a rich history. The park's Hamlin Dam and Pumped Storage Plant was built in the 1960s to generate electricity, and today it is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.
Ludington State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the beach or an adventurous hike through the dunes, this hidden gem in Michigan has something for everyone.
8) Belle Isle Park
Located in the Detroit River, Belle Isle Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers in Michigan. This island park spans 982 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors.
One of the main attractions at Belle Isle Park is the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. This greenhouse features exotic plants from around the world, including a collection of orchids and a cactus garden. It's the perfect place to escape the winter chill and enjoy the warmth of tropical foliage.
Belle Isle Park also offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can take a stroll through the island's formal gardens, go fishing on the Detroit River, or enjoy a round of golf at the park's 18-hole golf course. There are also bike rentals available, making it easy to explore the island on two wheels.
If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle Park. This museum showcases the history of the Great Lakes, including the development of Detroit as a major shipping hub.
Belle Isle Park is also home to several annual events, including the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix and the Detroit Hydrofest. These events draw visitors from around the country and are a great way to experience the park in a new and exciting way.
Belle Isle Park is a beautiful and unique destination for nature lovers in Michigan. Whether you're looking to relax in a greenhouse oasis or get active on the Detroit River, Belle Isle Park has something for everyone.
9) Au Sable River
If you love water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, you can't miss out on the stunning Au Sable River. The river runs through the Huron National Forest, which means you're surrounded by nature on all sides.
The clear, shallow waters of the Au Sable River are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. It's a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the forest and observe wildlife like deer, eagles, and osprey.
If you're an angler, the Au Sable River is known for its brown, rainbow, and brook trout. It's also home to several other species of fish, so you're sure to have a good catch.
If you prefer to keep your feet on land, you can hike along the Au Sable River Trail. It's a beautiful trail that winds along the riverbank, through the forest, and over scenic bridges.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the Au Sable River is a must-visit destination in Michigan.
10) Isle Royale National Park
Nestled in the northernmost reaches of Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park is a true hidden gem for nature lovers. This remote island park offers visitors a pristine wilderness experience with a rugged coastline, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters teeming with fish.
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale National Park offers a truly unique experience. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including wolves, moose, and otters, as well as a wide variety of birds and fish.
Hiking is a popular activity in Isle Royale National Park, with over 165 miles of trails to explore. Visitors can trek through forests of aspen, fir, and birch trees, climb rocky peaks, and stroll along pristine beaches. There are also several backcountry campsites available for those looking to spend a night under the stars.
For those interested in water activities, Isle Royale National Park offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The park's crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of fish, including lake trout, walleye, and northern pike.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a unique getaway, Isle Royale National Park is not to be missed. With its rugged wilderness, abundant wildlife, and stunning natural beauty, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for outdoor lovers.
After exploring these 10 must-visit hidden gems in Michigan, it's clear to see why the state is a nature lover's paradise. From the pristine beaches of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to the rugged wilderness of Porcupine Mountains State Park, Michigan offers a diverse array of natural wonders for visitors to discover.
It's no wonder that Northern Nail Polish draws inspiration from the beauty of Michigan's hidden gems when creating her line of eco-friendly, vegan nail polish. Just like the natural landscapes of Michigan, Northern Nail Polish is unique, vibrant, and environmentally conscious.
So why not plan your next adventure to Michigan and see for yourself the hidden gems that have inspired Northern Nail Polish and so many other nature lovers. There's always something new to discover and explore in this incredible state.