The complete and indispensable illustrated guide to long walks, overnight hikes, and wilderness treks in Michigan

Guide to Michigan's backpacking trails

In the this completely revised third edition of the classic hiking guide to Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, noted outdoor writer Jim DuFresne leads hikers on sixty hikes through the state’s unequaled system of national and state parks, natural areas, and wilderness tracts, where the scenery and trails are as varied as anywhere in the country. Hikes range from 1.5 miles to 23 miles, from easy day hikes to extended island backpacking adventures. Complementing the trail descriptions are the most accurate and up-to-date maps available. Hikers will learn where to find the best trailside fishing, birding, and wildlife viewing as well as where to go to find fall colors, spring wildflowers, and undisturbed backcountry camping.

Explore the hills, ridges, sand dunes, and breathtaking views of the Great Lake State, one trail at a time Michigan’s Lower Peninsula offers extremely diverse terrain, from beaches that are home to shipwrecks and lighthouses, streams populated with trout, and wildflower and orchid fields to spaces with unusual geological formations, sand dunes, and steep climbs, and beech forests perfect for birding. Each chapter begins with an overview of each hike—the type of hike, total distance, time, difficulty, highlights, maps, and trailhead GPS coordinates. Readers will learn the best way to access the trail, tips and suggestions, and key features to look out for along the way (scenic views, drinking water, rest stops, waterfalls, and old growth trees). Whether readers are setting out in the Sleeping Bear region to observe shipwrecks, open dunes, and beach walking on the South Manitou Island trail, 50 Hikes in Michigan (with 10 bonus hikes!) is the perfect companion.