Uncrowded Trails: The Best Spring Hiking Routes in the UP and Northern Michigan Before Summer Tourists Arrive

Spring in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula creates a magical hiking experience few visitors discover. As snow melts and nature awakens, trails that become crowded in summer remain peaceful and serene. This hidden season between winter's grip and summer's rush offers perfect conditions for exploring Bellaire, Alden, Rapid City, and the magnificent Upper Peninsula.

Why Spring Hiking in Northern Michigan?

Northern Michigan's spring offers unique landscapes where snow-capped peaks contrast with valleys bursting with early blooms. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound as animals emerge from hibernation and birds return from migration. Comfortable temperatures (45-65°F) create ideal hiking conditions without summer's heat and humidity. Most importantly, you'll often have popular trails entirely to yourself, providing a sense of discovery that vanishes when summer crowds arrive.

Essential Spring Hiking Tips

Pack layers that can be added or removed as temperatures change throughout the day. Waterproof hiking boots are essential for muddy conditions, and rain gear should always be in your pack for sudden spring showers. Expect mud on forest paths and occasional snow patches at higher elevations even into May. Spring runoff creates temporary streams across trails, so proper footwear is crucial. The best hiking times are typically mid-morning to early afternoon when trails have had time to dry from overnight moisture.



Upper Peninsula Spring Hidden Gems

1. At Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the Chapel Loop Trail (10 miles, moderate) provides stunning views of waterfalls at peak volume without summer crowds.
2. Tahquamenon Falls State Park's Upper and Lower Falls trails (4 miles combined, easy to moderate) showcase the falls at their most potent as snowmelt creates thundering cascades. 
3. For an authentic wilderness experience, the Porcupine Mountains' Lake of the Clouds escarpment trail (4 miles, moderate) provides panoramic views across the still-partially-frozen lake below.

Bellaire Area Favorite Spring Trails

1. Bellaire's Glacial Hills Pathway offers 31 miles of trails for every skill level. 
2. The Vandermark Trail (2.5 miles, easy) winds through hardwood forests where spring wildflowers emerge in April and May. 
3. Grass River Natural Area's boardwalk trails through wetlands attract migratory birds, with the Sedge Meadow Trail (1.5 miles, easy) offering excellent bird watching. 

After hiking, reward yourself at Short's Brewing Company in downtown Bellaire, perfectly combining the nearby Cedar River Trail (2 miles, easy) with a refreshing craft beer.



Alden's Secret Spring Paths

1. Coy Mountain Trail (3 miles, moderate) offers beautiful views of Torch Lake as it transitions from winter ice to spring blue. 
2. For wildflower enthusiasts, the Grass River trails showcase spectacular spring blooms, with marsh marigolds and trillium carpeting the forest floor. 
3. Photographers should visit Spencer Creek Nature Preserve, where its main loop (1.2 miles, easy) features flowing water and emerging foliage creating natural masterpieces.

Rapid City Area Spring Hiking

1. The North Country Trail sections along Rapid River (variable length, moderate) showcase spring runoff creating powerful displays of rushing water. Early morning hikers often spot deer and other wildlife. 
2. The VASA Pathway's northeast section (4 miles, easy to moderate) provides a secluded experience through mixed forests where wildflowers begin emerging in mid-April. 
3. Torch Lake's eastern shore trails offer views of returning loons and waterfowl that disappear when summer boaters arrive.

Spring Waterfall Hikes

Northern Michigan's waterfalls reach their dramatic peak during spring melt. 

1. Munising's Wagner Falls (0.5 miles, easy) and Alger Falls (0.25 miles, easy) offer accessible viewing of powerful cascades. 
2. Near Bellaire, the lesser-known Intermediate River falls (1 mile, moderate) create a series of cascades that nearly disappear later in the season. Morning light provides the best conditions for photographing spring waterfalls.

Wildlife Viewing Spring Trails

1. Grass River Natural Area becomes a hotspot during spring migration, with the Rail Trail (1 mile, easy) offering sightings of returning warblers. 
2. The Jordan River Pathway near East Jordan provides opportunities to spot deer and occasionally black bears emerging from hibernation. 

Dawn and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities, and binoculars are essential for responsible viewing without disturbing animals.

Planning Your Spring Hiking Vacation

For a perfect weekend, base yourself in Bellaire or Alden to access the Glacial Hills and Torch Lake areas. A week-long exploration should include several days in the Upper Peninsula followed by time in the Bellaire-Alden-Rapid City region.

Our rental properties offer ideal access to these spring trails. Our Bellaire cabin puts you minutes from Glacial Hills, while our Rapid City property offers easy access to the VASA Pathway and Torch Lake trails. Our Upper Peninsula cottage near Munising provides the perfect base for exploring Pictured Rocks before summer crowds arrive.

Northern Michigan's spring hiking season is fleeting—typically from mid-April through early June. Book your accommodations early to experience this magical season when nature awakens and trails remain peaceful and uncrowded. Your spring hiking adventure awaits in Michigan's magnificent north country!

For more information on booking our properties ideally situated for spring hiking adventures, visit our website or contact us directly.