The best walks and hikes in Leelanau County

Yes, the area is great for families. You'll find many easier trails, with over 30 easy-rated hikes to choose from. A good option is the Cottonwood Trail loop, a short 1.6-mile (2.6 km) walk through the dunes. Another popular choice is the Clay Cliffs Natural Area, which has a 1.5-mile trail leading to a scenic overlook.

Dogs are welcome on many trails, but there are restrictions, especially within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times. They are not permitted on the Dune Climb or most beach areas to protect wildlife. The Leelanau Conservancy trails, like those at Houdek Dunes Natural Area, are generally dog-friendly. Always check specific park regulations before you go.

Leelanau County has numerous loop trails so you can end your hike where you started. For a shorter, scenic loop, consider the Sleeping Bear Point Trail loop, which is about 2.7 miles (4.4 km) and offers great views. If you're looking for something longer and more challenging through the forest, the Alligator Hill Advanced Trail loop is a 6.2-mile (10 km) option.

Many trails feature stunning lake views from atop bluffs and dunes. The Pyramid Point Trail loop is a local favorite, offering a spectacular overlook of the Manitou Passage from a high bluff. For a different perspective, the Whaleback Natural Area provides a rewarding view from its viewing platform after a short, uphill hike.

Summer and fall are the most popular seasons for hiking. Summer offers warm weather perfect for enjoying the lake views, while fall brings spectacular foliage colors to the hardwood forests. Spring is also beautiful with blooming wildflowers. Winter hiking and snowshoeing are possible, especially on trails like the one at Leelanau State Park, but be prepared for snow and ice.

There's a great mix of difficulties. The majority of the 50+ trails are rated easy, perfect for casual walks. About 15 are moderate, often involving more elevation gain or sandy terrain, like the hike to the lake at the Dune Climb. There are only a couple of difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge.

Yes, there are accessible options. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a paved, multi-use path that is largely flat and suitable for wheelchairs, especially the sections through Glen Arbor and Empire. The Leelanau Trail, connecting Traverse City and Suttons Bay, is another paved, 17-mile trail that is a great accessible choice.

Most designated trailheads have parking areas, such as those at Leelanau State Park, Clay Cliffs Natural Area, and the various trail systems within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Keep in mind that a National Park pass is required for parking within the National Lakeshore. Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on summer weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning views of Lake Michigan from high bluffs, the unique experience of walking across massive sand dunes, and the peaceful, well-maintained trails through lush forests.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area, and most trailheads are not directly served by bus routes. The BATA bus service operates in the region, but getting to specific trailheads like those deep within the National Lakeshore would be difficult. Renting a car is the most reliable way to access the majority of hikes.

Yes, if you're looking for a longer day on the trail, there are several options. The Sleeping Bear Point loop is a moderate 8.2-mile (13.2 km) hike that combines dune landscapes with forest paths. For a wooded challenge with significant hills, the Alligator Hill trail system offers several loops, with the longest combinations approaching 9 miles (14.5 km).

The terrain is quite varied. Expect sandy paths on any trail near the dunes, which can be strenuous to walk on. Many trails, like the Kettles Trail loop, wind through rolling hills and hardwood forests on packed dirt. You'll also find boardwalks over marshy areas and some paved trails like the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.