Where Can I Go Backpacking in Michigan?

By Alice Nichols

Backpacking in Michigan is an amazing experience for anyone looking for a chance to explore the beauty and grandeur of the Great Lakes State. From the vibrant cities of Detroit and Grand Rapids, to the tranquil forests and lakes of the Upper Peninsula, Michigan has something for everyone.

The best place to start backpacking in Michigan is along one of its many trails. The North Country Trail offers hikers over 4,600 miles of scenic hiking opportunities across seven states, including Michigan. It passes through some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, making it a great way to see some of Michigan’s most iconic landscapes.

Speaking of iconic landscapes, there are plenty of other notable places in Michigan to explore by backpacking. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides stunning views along its sandy beaches and towering dunes. Isle Royale National Park is also a great place to backpack as it features incredible hiking trails that wind through remote forests and along picturesque lakes.

If you’re looking for more urban-style backpacking, there are plenty of cities in Michigan that offer plenty of sights and attractions for backpackers. Traverse City is home to some fantastic restaurants and shops, as well as nearby hiking trails like Leelanau State Park or Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore that offer spectacular views from atop their bluffs. Detroit also has plenty to offer backpackers with its unique neighborhoods full of culture and history, as well as popular attractions like Belle Isle Park and the Detroit Institute of Arts.

No matter your backpacking style or preference, there’s something special waiting for you in Michigan! With hundreds of miles of trails winding through some incredible landscapes, cities full of culture and exciting attractions, there’s something for everyone when it comes to backpacking in the Great Lakes State!

Conclusion: From the North Country Trail to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Isle Royale National Park, Traverse City or Detroit; no matter what your preference is when it comes to backpacking – you’ll find something special waiting for you when exploring Michigan!