The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Highland State Recreation Area

Embark on the Haven Hill Loop, an easy hike spanning 4.5 miles (7.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 204 feet (62 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 54 minutes. As you hike, you'll experience a diverse landscape, moving through hardwood forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. Keep an eye out for picturesque views as the route passes by Haven Hill Lake. The trail offers a pleasant outdoor experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in Michigan's varied natural beauty.

When planning your visit, you will find parking typically available at the trailhead within the Highland Recreation Area. The trail is generally accessible for hikers. Be aware that equestrians share some segments of the route, so you might encounter horse droppings along the way. Please note that mountain bikes are not permitted on these hiking trails.

This area is recognized as a National Natural Landmark, showcasing nearly every tree type found in Michigan, from cedar swamps to oak-hickory forests. As you explore, you can also discover the historical site of the Edsel Ford Estate ruins, adding a cultural layer to your outdoor adventure. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and waterfowl, often seen in the ponds and bogs throughout the area.

Embark on the Haven Hill Lake Red-Green-Blue Loop, a moderate hiking route that takes you through a mix of hardwood forests, wetlands, and gentle hills. This 8.4-mile (13.5 km) journey, with its 250 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, offers scenic views of Heaven Hill Lake and Teeple Lake. You can expect to complete this loop in about 3 hours and 29 minutes, making it a rewarding half-day adventure. The trail's atmosphere shifts with the landscape, providing a varied experience for hikers. Look out for the historical remnants of the Edsel Ford estate, including the old lodge's footprint, as you make your way around the loop.

When planning your hike, be aware that certain parts of the trail, particularly on weekends, are shared with equestrians, so you might see horses along the way. Mountain bikes are not permitted on this route, ensuring a peaceful hiking experience. Be prepared for potentially wet conditions on sections of the Green Trail, and some sandy ground might make walking a bit more strenuous. Checking weather conditions before you go will help you prepare for the terrain.

This trail is located within the Highland State Recreation Area and is recognized as a National Natural Landmark, highlighting its ecological importance. Beyond the natural beauty, the route offers a unique glimpse into history with the preserved remnants of the Edsel Ford estate, including a carriage house. The area is especially vibrant in autumn, when the hardwood forests display a spectacular array of fall colors, making it a prime time to visit.

Embark on the Haven Hill Lake and Woods Loop for an easy hike through a diverse landscape. You will wind through hardwood forests, wetlands, and gentle rolling hills, enjoying views of Haven Hill Lake and other small bodies of water. This route covers 1.6 miles (2.6 km) with a modest 43 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, making it a quick and accessible outdoor experience you can complete in about 39 minutes.

When planning your visit, be aware that some sections of the trail system are shared with equestrians, especially on weekends. Parking is conveniently available at the trailhead, making access straightforward. If you bring your dog along, please remember to keep them on a leash to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

This loop is nestled within the Highland State Recreation Area, offering a chance to observe local wildlife like deer and various waterfowl. As you hike, a beautiful boardwalk guides you around northern swamp areas, where you might even spot rare flowers and plants, adding a unique natural element to your journey.

Hike the difficult 12.4-mile Chief Pontiac Trail and Highland Loops, gaining 347 feet in Highland State Recreation Area.