A Winter Guide to Hiking Trails

As the chill of winter wraps around Southwest Michigan, the landscape transforms into a snowy playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful winter walk, these trails offer something special for everyone. So, lace up your boots and explore the winter wonderland that Michigan has to offer, with its glistening Lake Michigan shores, extensive trail systems, majestic dunes, and inviting hiking paths.

Warren Dunes State Park

At Warren Dunes State Park, the dunes rise majestically, offering hikers 6 miles of trails that showcase a unique challenge and reward: panoramic views of the ice-covered Lake Michigan. The trail around Mt. Randall, in particular, is a popular choice for its moderate difficulty and stunning scenery with Lake Michigan views from 260 feet in the air.

Grand Mere State Park

Grand Mere State Park in Stevensville offers a serene winter hiking experience with snow-covered trails and stunning views of frozen Lake Michigan. Its diverse terrain includes towering dunes and peaceful forests, making it ideal for wildlife spotting and tranquil exploration.

Love Creek County Park

For those who prefer a quieter hike, Love Creek County Park is perfect. Its trails meander through serene woods, past frozen creeks, and under snow-laden branches. It’s a place where peace and natural beauty are abundant. The park is also a haven for diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer delicately traversing the snowy terrain, hardy cardinals and chickadees flitting among bare branches, and elusive foxes leaving tracks in the fresh snow.

Our 1.8 miles of snowshoeing trail offer a unique way to explore the serene winter wonderland that blankets the park. Whether you're a seasoned snowshoer or a first-timer, Love Creek County Park has you covered with snowshoe rentals. Their rental equipment guarantees a comfortable and enjoyable outing for individuals, families, and friends alike.

Royalton Township Nature Trail

Royalton Township Nature Trail provides a peaceful winter hike through varied landscapes and offers accessible trails. The park features wooded ravines, a serene pond, wetlands, and a prairie, offering tranquil views and a chance for quiet reflection in a snowy setting.

Mt. Tabor Trails

A scenic 3.5-mile trail system connects Round Barn Estate and Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant. While on the trails, you can enjoy a beer, glass of wine or cocktail from either locaiton. The trails are open year-round, perfect for all ages and leashed pets, require no reservations and are great for groups.

Dr. T.K. Lawless Park

The snow in Dr. T.K. Lawless Park transforms the 7 miles of trails into a winter wonderland. The diverse landscape, with its wooded areas and open fields, provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy nature’s quiet. This International Dark Sky Park is one of just three located in their entire state, which offers exceptional stargazing as well. 

Fred Russ Forest Park

Fred Russ Forest Park, though smaller, is a hidden gem with trails that wind through the quiet, snow-covered forest. It’s the ideal spot for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature during their winter hike.

Van Buren State Park

For those drawn to the coast, Van Buren State Park provides a breathtaking experience. The park’s snow-covered dunes offer stunning views of wintry Lake Michigan and easy access to Van Buren Trail State Park (a gravel surface of an additional 12 miles heading south). Hiking these dunes in the crisp winter air is both invigorating and peaceful.

A Complete Winter’s Day Experience

Winter in Southwest Michigan offers refreshing trails and exceptional local hospitality. Cozy hotels welcome you with warmth, and varied dining options serve hearty meals. The Makers Trail adds to the experience with craft beverages. This perfect blend of nature, adventure, and local charm defines Southwest Michigan's winter allure.