ALL WAYS

TO GO HIKING

It’s time to explore the trail diversity the Cadillac Area has to offer. From accessible hard paths, to single track in the heart of the Manistee National Forest, there are so many ways to explore trails in our area.

CADILLAC AREA HIKING TRAILS

The Cadillac Area is surrounded by the National Forest and Michigan DNR Forest Areas providing over 500,000 acres of public land, along with over 200 miles of trails.

We are fortunate to have dedicated trail clubs help to maintain the integrity of our regional trails. The North Country Trail in the Huron-Manistee National Forest is managed by the Spirit of the Woods Chapter. The Traverse City Chapter manages the area north of the Manistee River Loop area. These clubs span across Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Wexford and Manistee Counties and help to ensure that your hiking experience is both safe and memorable.

Throughout 4 seasons there are sponsored hiking events in Wexford County. Check in with the Carl T Johnson Hunting & Fishing Center, as they host several hiking events throughout the year on area trails.

Check out our blog for the local perspective of our area hiking trails, what to pack, where to go, and what to expect. Our local Dave Foley has his own ‘Out and About’ section on our site, sharing great tips from 40+ years of experience.

Winter Hiking The Manistee River Trail

For years, I've been winter backpacking all over the county from Utah to Maine! But the scenic trails we have right here at home are some of the best I've ever had the pleasure of exploring. My most recent winter hike with friends is a tradition that we try to plan...

Winter Fun at the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center Center

Winter hikes, ice fishing classes and more! The Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center, at the popular Mitchell State Park, offers a range of programs for all ages. Visitors are greeted by a 500 gallon aquarium showcasing the fish of Lake Mitchell and Lake...

Out & About, Steelhead on the Move

By Dave Foley Rivers like the Pere Marquette, as well as the Big and Little Manistee, get a little crowded after Labor Day as thousands of salmon leave Lake Michigan to push up these steams to spawn. From late August until September king and coho salmon dominate the...

Get on our Hiking Trails in Cadillac!

Select a trail to access downloadable maps, GPS information, trailhead locations, amenities and more.

Cadillac Pathway

This great trail is only 10 minutes outside of Downtown Cadillac and is a four season mult-sport trail featuring Fat Tire, MTB, Trail Hiking and groomed cross classic cross country skiing.

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Heritage Trail at the Mitchell State Park

Don’t miss this wonderful 3.5 mile nature trail surrounding a 235-acre preserve.

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Oliver Family Nature Preserve

The Oliver Family Preserve is a 15-acre natural area, open to the public for hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities.

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Fife Lake Loop

Along this 21 mile loop trail, hikers can enjoy the scenic views, serenity of the forest, streams and the Manistee River. 

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Waldeck Nature Preserve

Waldeck Island is an 11-acre nature preserve located on Stone Ledge Lake, which is open to the public for quiet sports such as hiking and snowshoeing.

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Big-M Recreation Area

The Big “M” trail is a 37.9 mile loop trail system located in a canopy of hardwoods off of M-55 between Cadillac and Wellston.

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Manistee River Trail/NCT Loop

The North Country Trail takes you west of the Manistee River, and the Manistee River Trail takes you along the east side of the river. This is a hiking and XC skiing only trail.

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Mackenzie Trail

A 25 mile multi-terrain, multi-season hiking, biking, summer trail, that transitions into a groomed classic cross country ski trail system in the winter.

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