The best walks and hikes in Ottawa National Forest

The O Kun de Kun Falls via North Country Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through Michigan's Upper Peninsula, leading you to two distinct waterfalls. You'll wander through a lush forest of hardwoods and softwoods, following the Baltimore River. The trail's highlight is the impressive O Kun de Kun Falls, a 20 to 30-foot plunge waterfall, which you can view from a scenic suspension bridge. This 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route, with only 117 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxing outing, taking about 1 hour and 9 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though it's wise to download maps as cell service can be unreliable in this remote area. The trail is generally gentle, but be aware that sections can become muddy after rain, and leaf-covered boardwalks might be slippery. Autumn is a fantastic time to visit for vibrant fall colors and fewer bugs, while spring offers the most dramatic water flow over the falls.

This segment of the much larger North Country Trail is a true gem in the Ottawa National Forest, offering a peaceful experience away from crowds. Beyond the main O Kun de Kun Falls, you'll also encounter the smaller Peanut Butter Falls upstream, known for its unique brown-colored water. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a high-reward, low-effort nature walk in a serene setting.

The Potawatomi Falls and Gorge Falls Loop offers a delightful, easy hiking experience, perfect for those seeking impressive waterfall views without a long trek. This 0.7-mile (1.2 km) route takes you along the Black River, where you'll encounter the wide, multi-tiered Potawatomi Falls and the dramatic 34-foot Gorge Falls, both easily accessible. The terrain varies from smooth asphalt and boardwalk to sections with stairs leading to stunning viewpoints, all surrounded by lush foliage and unique rock formations. It's a short, rewarding journey through a beautiful natural setting.

Planning your visit to the Potawatomi Falls and Gorge Falls Loop is straightforward, with parking available at the trailhead. While the overall difficulty is easy, remember that the numerous stairs to the waterfall viewpoints can be a workout, so sturdy footwear is a good idea, especially if conditions are wet or icy. The accessible asphalt path at Potawatomi Falls makes a portion of this trail enjoyable for a wider range of visitors, and it's a great option for families.

What makes this loop truly notable is the close proximity and ease of access to two distinct and impressive waterfalls. Beyond the cascades, you'll find a rich natural environment with massive, centuries-old trees and opportunities to spot spring wildflowers. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, from vibrant autumn colors to spectacular winter ice formations, offering a unique experience any time of year. This is one of the top rated hikes near Potawatomi Falls for a quick, high-impact nature fix.

Explore the easy 0.4 mile (0.7 km) Superior Falls Trail in Saxon Harbor County Park, offering views of impressive waterfalls and Lake Superi

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) hike, taking about 2 hours and 23 minutes to complete, offers a rewarding journey through Michigan's Ottawa National Forest. You'll traverse dense old-growth hemlock and hardwood forests, with the highlight being the impressive Great Conglomerate Falls, where the Black River splits around a massive conglomerate rock formation. The trail also leads you to Algonquin Falls, providing a more intimate walk along the river within a deepening gorge, making it one of the best hiking trails near Algonquin Falls, Michigan.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at the Black River Harbor parking lot. The route is most enjoyable in spring, summer, and fall, but be prepared for potentially muddy sections and remember your bug spray. If you're considering a winter hike, be extremely cautious, as the numerous stairs near the waterfalls can become very icy. This trail is also dog-friendly, so your canine companion can join the adventure.

This segment is part of the much larger North Country National Scenic Trail, offering a unique opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Unlike trails where waterfalls are easily accessible by car, this route makes you earn your views, enhancing the sense of accomplishment. While this specific hike focuses on Algonquin and Great Conglomerate Falls, the area is renowned for several other waterfalls, including Rainbow, Sandstone, Gorge, and Potawatomi Falls, all contributing to the region's natural beauty.