Here is your all encompassing guide to fall hikes in Traverse City, MI! Starting with the most underrated fall hikes in Traverse City to some of the best fall hikes in Traverse City, this has it all!
Looking for winter hiking around Traverse City? Head here for the best winter hiking trails around Traverse City!
Ready for some warm and sunny summer hikes? Head here for the best summer trails around Traverse City!
Fall Hikes in Traverse City – Underrated Fall Hikes in Traverse City
Less busy, less crowded, still just as beautiful!
Lake Dubonet
This easy loop trail is the perfect off the grid but close to town trails! Going around the State Forest campground and edge of Lake Dubonet; this is a gorgeous and simple trail to take that will be far less busy than the popular trails in the area but still give you the perfect up north feel!
Cedar Run Creek Natural Area
A moderate trail, with some points of nice elevation change, and lots of dense forest! There are over 4 miles of loop trails throughout Cedar Run. Two trailheads are available for parking!
Trailheads: Cedar Lake Rd (main trailhead) and Tucker Rd (seasonal)
Grand Traverse Commons
These easy-moderate trails are perfect for hikes, mountain biking, and trail running! There are around 5 miles of trail behind the old State Hospital and with varying elevation and terrain it’s a beautiful hike no matter the season!
Trailheads: Copper Ridge, Water Tower, TCAPS, Munson Medical Center, Historic Barns
Lake Ann State Forest
Just 25 minutes west of Traverse City you have over 5 miles of loop trails perfect for trail running and hiking! These moderate trails provide lots of elevation change! With views of Lake Ann and the Platte River, it’s a tranquil, forested hike that will engulf you in fall color!
TO NOTE: Majority of the trails are located on the West Side of Reynolds Rd, but parking is at the State Forest Campground on the East Side of Reynolds Rd
Trailhead: located off Reynolds Rd at the Lake Ann State Forest Campground
Old Mission Lighthouse
Head up Old Mission Peninsula to check out not only the beautiful lighthouse, but hike some of the trails nearby! With over 6 miles of easy trails and many view points of the surrounding bay this is a perfect way to start your day!
With many birch and maple trees you’re sure to get lots of contrasting color throughout you’re hike on the tip of Old Mission Peninsula!
TO NOTE: this is a state park and requires the MI DNR State Passport
Trailhead: Old Mission Lighthouse, Ridgewood Rd
Pelizzari Natural Area
An incredible forested hike that is easy for all ages! Over 3 miles of trails with loops and out-and-backs. There is minimal elevation change on this hike, making it perfect for families and anyone looking for an easy tranquil hike.
Trailhead: located off of M37 (Center Rd)
VASA Trail System
This awesome trail system features loops for a 3K, 5K, 10K, and 25K! These are all loop trails and with varying elevation on each loop you can find a hike or trail run for any skill level from easy to difficult!
Located just outside of Traverse City, this forested hike will give you pops of color all throughout!
Trailhead: located off Bunker Rd (4450 Bartlett Rd in Williamsburg)
Fall Hikes in Traverse City – Best Fall Hikes in Traverse City
Boardman River Trail
24 miles of trail stretching all the way south of Traverse City to Brown Bridge Quiet Area. This easy trail is perfect for any skill level of hiking and with numerous trail heads around Traverse City you can start anywhere and hike as much or little as you please! Perfect place to bring your family, your pup (on a 6-foot leash of course), or if you enjoy trail running!
Trailheads: Grand Traverse YMCA South, Olson Bridge, Boardman River Nature Center, Lone Pine, Keystone
Brown Bridge Quiet Area
This gorgeous trail just south of Traverse City takes you right out of “city life” and into nature. With loops from 4-6 miles, this easy to moderate trail is the perfect day hike! There are numerous trailheads located around the loops.
From hiking in the dense forest, to along the Boardman river, and climbing steep stairs that lead to 10/10 lookout views. This is hands down my top MUST hike trail in Traverse City in the fall!
Trailheads: off of River Road and Hobbs Highway
