Best Hiking Trails In The Midwest – First words
Welcome to the Best hiking trails in the midwest article! The Midwest has many hiking trails for all. You can find easy day hikes or long backpacking trips. Thirty trails in the Upper Midwest are ranked for their beauty, difficulty, and more.
Explore scenic trails in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Wisconsin’s Northwoods offer rugged terrain. Minnesota’s lakeshore trails are beautiful. The Superior Hiking Trail is a 300-mile path with stunning views.
When planning your hike, think about what each trail offers. The Chapel-Basin Loop in Michigan is a 10/10 hike with waterfalls and Lake Superior views. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan is also a top choice for its views and photography spots.
There are many trails to choose from. Whether you want a relaxing hike or a challenging trip, the Midwest has it. You can see Lake Superior’s beauty or explore Isle Royale National Park’s cliffs. Many parks and trails are free or low-cost, like Starved Rock State Park in Illinois and Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio.
Key Takeaways
- The Midwest offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.
- Thirty hiking trails in the Upper Midwest are ranked based on trail difficulty, views, bugs, crowds, and personal evaluation.
- The Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota is a 300-mile long trail that offers scenic views of inland lakes, Lake Superior, waterfalls, and canyons.
- Many state and national parks in the region offer free or low-cost entry, such as Starved Rock State Park in Illinois and Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio.
- The Chapel-Basin Loop in Michigan offers a scenic 11-13 mile hike with waterfalls and Lake Superior views, rated 10/10.
- Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan is rated 10/10 for its accessibility, photography spots, and sunset views.
Shawnee National Forest Trails (Illinois)
Planning a trip to Shawnee National Forest? You’ll find trails for all ages and skills. From short walks to long backpacking trips, there’s something for everyone. The scenic views and unique rock formations make it a top spot for nature fans and travelers.
The forest boasts many famous trails. You can explore the Giant City Nature Trail, Tunnel Hill State Trail, and Pomona Bridge Trail. These paths show off the forest’s beauty. You’ll see sandstone bluffs, ghost towns, and natural bridges.
Some of the best trails in Shawnee National Forest include:
- Giant City Nature Trail: a 12-mile trek through towering sandstone bluffs
- Tunnel Hill State Trail: a 45-mile rails-to-trails path through the forest
- Pomona Bridge Trail: a short yet remarkable trail leading to a 90-foot long natural bridge
Looking for a perfect day hike or a unique backpacking trip? Shawnee National Forest has it all. So, bring your hiking boots and check out the forest’s trails. With its amazing natural beauty and varied trails, it’s a must-see for outdoor lovers.
Badlands National Park Trails (South Dakota)
Badlands National Park is in the heart of South Dakota. It’s great for hiking and outdoor fun. You’ll see beautiful trails, rock formations, and wildlife.
Plan your visit with the weather in mind. The park’s terrain can be tough. There are many trails to pick from, so you’ll find the right one for you.
The Notch Trail is famous here. It offers stunning views and rock formations. For an easy walk, try the Fossil Exhibit Trail. It’s short and shows fossils and extinct creatures.
The Castle Trail is longer. It’s a moderate ten-mile trail. It starts at the Fossil Exhibit Trailhead and ends at the Door and Window parking area.
Some top trails include:
- Saddle Pass Trail: a strenuous short .25-mile trail
- Fossil Exhibit Trail: an easy .25-mile trail with fossil replicas and exhibits of extinct creatures
- Castle Trail: a moderate ten-mile trail from the Fossil Exhibit Trailhead to the Door and Window parking area
- Medicine Root Loop: a moderate 4-mile loop trail through grass prairie connecting with the Castle Trail and the Saddle Pass Trail
Check the park’s website for trail info and weather. Badlands National Park is a must-see for outdoor lovers. Start planning your trip today to see its beauty.
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Saddle Pass Trail | .25 miles | Strenuous |
| Fossil Exhibit Trail | .25 miles | Easy |
| Castle Trail | 10 miles | Moderate |
| Medicine Root Loop | 4 miles | Moderate |
Ice Age National Scenic Trail (Wisconsin)
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail stretches for 1,000 miles across Wisconsin. It offers scenic views, unique rock formations, and diverse wildlife. As you hike, you’ll see Wisconsin’s nature and travel through different terrain.
Over 600 miles of the trail are open for hiking. You can pick from many segments to match your hiking style.
The Devil’s Lake Segment is a top choice. It has stunning rock formations and breathtaking views. It’s perfect for hiking lovers, with its unique geological features and scenic views.
Whether you want a day hike or a multi-day trip, the Ice Age Trail has it all.
Here are some key features of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail:
- Over 1,000 miles of trail spanning across Wisconsin
- 30 counties and dozens of communities connected by the trail
- More than 600 miles of trail open for use
- 11 National Scenic Trails in the US, with the Ice Age Trail being one of them
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a must-see for outdoor lovers. It has unique rock formations, scenic views, and diverse wildlife. It’s great for hiking, backpacking, or a unique travel experience. So, bring your sense of adventure and explore Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
| Trail Segment | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Devil’s Lake Segment | 10 miles | Challenging |
| Verona Segment | 5 miles | Easy |
| Gibraltar Segment | 7 miles | Moderate |
Ozark Trail Highlights (Missouri)
The Ozark Trail stretches for 230 miles across Missouri. It offers beautiful views, unique rock formations, and diverse wildlife. As you hike, you’ll see nature’s beauty all around you.
The trail is famous for Taum Sauk Mountain. It has stunning views and special rock formations.
Plan your trip to the Ozark Trail with the weather in mind. The trail is open all year, but the weather changes a lot. Make sure you have the right gear and permits for a safe trip.
The Ozark Trail is great for all kinds of hikers. You can choose from easy day hikes to long backpacking trips. Top spots include the Courtois Creek, Trace Creek, and Middle Fork sections.
These areas have amazing views, unique rocks, and lots of wildlife. They are perfect for outdoor lovers. The Ozark Trail is in the heart of Missouri, making it easy to get to.
While hiking, enjoy the views and rock formations. Taum Sauk Mountain offers incredible sights. The trail is full of nature and has many types of plants and animals.
The Ozark Trail is a great place for outdoor fans. It has beautiful views, special rocks, and lots of wildlife. It’s perfect for any hike, from easy walks to tough treks. Start planning your trip today to see the Ozark Trail’s beauty for yourself.
| Trail Section | Length | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Courtois Creek | 26 miles | Moderate |
| Trace Creek | 30 miles | Challenging |
| Middle Fork | 26 miles | Moderate |
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a unique spot for outdoor fans. It has many hiking trails, scenic views, and stunning nature. Located in Ohio, it’s a top pick for nature lovers and travelers.
The park has over 125 miles of hiking trails for all levels. The Ledges Trail is a highlight, with scenic views and breathtaking rock formations. You’ll see sandstone ledges, wooded ravines, and old canals.
There are two inns in the park, in 1840s homes. You can also find food and drink, like at the popular Brandywine Falls Lodge. The park’s many islands offer stunning views of the forest.
Some key park features include:
- Over 125 miles of hiking trails
- Scenic views and breathtaking rock formations
- Diverse terrain, including sandstone ledges and wooded ravines
- Multiple options for food and drink
- Popular attractions, including the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is great for outdoor lovers. It offers hiking trails, scenic views, and stunning nature. It’s a must-see for nature and travel in Ohio.
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Ledges Trail | 2.2 miles | Easy |
| Brandywine Falls Trail | 1.4 miles | Moderate |
| Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad | 26 miles | Easy |
Hocking Hills State Park (Ohio)
Hocking Hills State Park is in Ohio’s heart. It’s famous for hiking and outdoor fun. The park has beautiful trails, unique rocks, and stunning views. It’s perfect for nature fans.
The Old Man’s Cave trail is a big hit. It shows off upper falls, devil’s bathtub, lower falls, and the a-frame bridge. Dogs can join the fun on most trails, but not at Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve. For a quiet start, visit from 8 am onwards.
The park offers many places to stay, like log cabins and yurts. It’s great for a memorable trip. Hocking Hills is known for its water-carved cliffs and gorges. It’s perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Some top trails include:
- Ash Cave Gorge (1/4-mile, Easy, Handicap Accessible)
- Cantwell Cliffs (2 miles, Difficult)
- Whispering Cave Trail (4.5 miles, Difficult)
These trails offer different adventures. From easy hikes to tough backpacking trips. They’re in the heart of Hocking Hills, Ohio.
Starved Rock State Park (Illinois)
Starved Rock State Park is in the heart of Illinois. It’s a favorite spot for hiking and outdoor fun. The park has beautiful trails, unique rocks, and stunning views. It’s a must-see for nature fans and travel lovers.
The park has 13 miles of trails. The St. Louis Canyon trail is a highlight. It shows off amazing views of the area.
The park’s rock formations are great for hiking and exploring. It also has many canyons, like St. Louis Canyon. This is a top spot for scenic views and photos. Starved Rock is perfect for those who love nature’s beauty.
Before you go, check the park’s website for trail updates and permits. The park has lots of activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. It’s great for both relaxing and adventurous trips.
Here are some important things to remember when you visit:
- Trail accessibility: The park has 13 miles of trails, but not all are for visitors with disabilities.
- Weather: Spring is the best time to visit. The weather is nice, and wildflowers bloom.
- Permits: For activities like camping and hunting, you need permits. You can get them on the park’s website.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Trails (Michigan)
Planning a trip to Michigan? Don’t miss Sleeping Bear Dunes. It’s great for hiking and outdoor fun. The park has beautiful trails, unique rocks, and stunning views. It’s perfect for all kinds of travelers.
The Dune Climb Trail is a favorite. It has amazing views and cool rock formations. There’s also the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail for hiking, biking, and skiing. For a tough hike, try the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive Ski Trail. It’s 8 miles long and offers great views.
Before hiking, check the trailheads and accessibility. Some trails need permits. The Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes help with trail info. The park also has a Track Chair for visitors with mobility issues. Sleeping Bear Dunes is great for outdoor lovers in Michigan.
Exploring the park? Enjoy the views of Lake Michigan and the dunes. The dunes are truly unique and beautiful. Hiking, biking, or just looking, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a must-see in Michigan. It’s a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and beauty.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (Michigan)
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s a top spot for outdoor lovers. With scenic trails, unique rock formations, and stunning natural beauty, it has something for everyone. The park covers 59,020 acres, with 25 miles of Lake Superior shoreline and almost 110 miles of trails.
Some of the park’s highlights include:
- Lake of the Clouds Trail, a scenic trail with breathtaking views and unique rock formations
- Escarpment Trail, considered one of the best hiking trails in the Midwest
- Greenstone and Overlooked Falls, accessible via a two-mile round trip hike
For those who want to stay in the park, there are 63 backcountry campsites, 18 walk-in cabins, and yurts for rent. The park also has a 320-acre downhill ski area and 42-kilometer cross-country ski trails. It’s a perfect mix of nature, travel, and outdoor recreation. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Before you continue your trip, check the weather and terrain conditions. Also, get any needed permits for your experience. With its stunning forest and lake views, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a unique and perfect place for your next travel adventure.
| Trail | Length | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Lake of the Clouds Trail | 4 miles | Easy |
| Escarpment Trail | 4 miles | Moderate |
| Greenstone Trail | 2 miles | Easy |
Superior Hiking Trail (Minnesota)
The Superior Hiking Trail stretches for 310 miles across Minnesota. It offers scenic views and unique rock formations. It’s located in the upper part of the state, making it perfect for nature lovers and travel enthusiasts.
This trail has stunning forest landscapes and many hiking options. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to dive deep into nature.
Some of the top features of the Superior Hiking Trail include:
- Iconic hikes like the Oberg Mountain Loop, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
- Scenic vistas of Lake Superior and the surrounding islands
- Opportunities to see diverse wildlife, including moose and wolves
When planning your trip, think about the time of year and weather. Spring and summer are popular, but expect crowds and possible permits. Fall is lovely, with comfortable weather and stunning colors.
Remember to bring the right gear and supplies. Take time to enjoy the views and unique rock formations along the way.
| Season | Weather | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild, with potential rain | Hiking, camping, wildlife viewing |
| Summer | Warm, with potential crowds | Hiking, swimming, fishing |
| Fall | Comfortable, with stunning colors | Hiking, camping, scenic drives |
Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)
Indiana Dunes National Park is in the Midwest’s heart. It’s a unique spot for outdoor fans. You can find many hiking trails, beautiful views, and natural wonders here. There are over 50 miles of trails to explore.
The West Beach Trail is very popular. It offers views of Lake Michigan and Chicago. The trail is 3.4 miles long and takes about 2.5 hours to finish. It’s great for a challenging hike.
Other trails like Calumet Dunes, Cowles Bog, and Glenwood Dunes show the park’s beauty from different angles. Each trail is special in its own way.
There are places to stay in the park, like Dunewood Campground. It has 66 campsites with modern amenities. The park is home to many animals, including birds and deer. It’s a top spot for nature lovers and travel fans.
- Over 50 miles of hiking trails
- Multiple ecosystems, including beaches, bogs, and forests
- Scenic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline
- Wildlife viewing opportunities, including birds and deer
- Camping facilities, including the Dunewood Campground
Indiana Dunes National Park is stunning and full of life. It has many outdoor activities. It’s a unique and perfect place to see the Midwest’s beauty. So, why not bring your adventure spirit and see what the park offers?
Black Hills National Forest Trails (South Dakota)
The Black Hills National Forest is in the heart of South Dakota. It’s a stunning place for those who love the outdoors. With its rock formations and scenic trails, it’s perfect for hiking.
There are trails for everyone here. You can choose from easy day hikes to long backpacking trips. It’s great for all kinds of travelers.
The Cathedral Spires Trail is a top choice. It’s a 1.5-mile hike through beautiful forests. You’ll see amazing views of the hills.
The Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park is also popular. It’s an 18-mile drive through stunning landscapes. The Sylvan Lake shoreline walk is easy and offers beautiful views.
Check the weather and terrain before you go. The Black Hills have a mix of sand and rock. But with the right experience and permits, you’ll have a great time. So, why not explore the Black Hills National Forest?
- Black Elk Peak trail, a challenging 7-mile hike to the highest point in South Dakota
- Needles Highway, a 14-mile scenic drive through hills and rock formations
- Jewel Cave National Monument, a unique cave system with over 200 miles of mapped caves
These trails offer different hiking experiences. They’re a great way to see the beautiful black hills and rock formations of the Black Hills National Forest.
Conclusion
The Midwest is full of hiking spots for everyone. You can find trails in Michigan’s Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or Indiana Dunes State Park. These places offer amazing views and chances to see wildlife.
Try the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin for stunning views of Lake Superior. Or, explore the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri. Here, you can see beautiful natural formations.
So, get your hiking gear ready and start exploring the Midwest. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to hiking or have lots of experience. The Midwest’s trails are waiting for you. Make memories that will last a lifetime.
Source Links
- https://madelinemarquardt.com/midwest-hiking-trails-ranked-best-to-worst/ – RANKED: Midwest Hiking Trails Best to Worst (by a guide!!)
- https://anappleaplane.com/hikes-in-the-midwest/ – 8 Best Hikes in the Midwest [2024]
- https://midwestnomads.com/2020/10/23/best-hikes-in-shawnee-national-forest/ – Best Hikes in Shawnee National Forest – Midwest Nomad Family
- https://www.shawneeforest.com/hiking-trails-illinois/ – Top Hiking Trails in Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest
- https://www.thatawaydad.com/badlands-national-park-west-side-hiking-and-driving-tour/ – Badlands National Park: West Side Hiking and Driving Tour – thatawaydad.com
- https://www.midwestliving.com/travel/state-and-national-parks/badlands-and-wind-cave-national-parks-guide/ – The Ultimate Guide to Badlands and Wind Cave National Parks
- https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/iceagetrail – Ice Age National Scenic Trail |
- https://www.iceagetrail.org/explore/explore-the-trail/ice-age-trail/ – About The Ice Age National Scenic Trail | Ice Age Alliance
- https://www.travelwisconsin.com/article/trails-and-hiking/get-to-know-wisconsins-ice-age-trail-a-hikers-paradise – The Ice Age Trail: A Hiker’s Paradise | Travel Wisconsin
- https://www.nps.gov/ozar/planyourvisit/hiking-in-the-ozarks.htm – Hiking in the Ozarks – Ozark National Scenic Riverways (U.S. National Park Service)
- https://www.backpacker.com/trips/trips-by-state/missouri-trails/the-ozark-trail-a-guide-to-hiking-missouris-mountains/ – The Ozark Trail: A Guide to Hiking Missouri’s Mountains
- https://www.springfieldmo.org/things-to-do/parks-and-trails/hiking/ – Six Scenic Ozarks Hikes – Springfield Missouri Travel & Tourism – Ozarks/Midwest Vacations
- https://www.midwestliving.com/travel/state-and-national-parks/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-guide/ – The Ultimate Guide to Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- https://middlejourney.com/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-is-a-hidden-gem-in-the-midwest/ – Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a hidden gem in the Midwest
- https://www.justgotravelstudios.com/blogs/just-go-travel-blog/cuyahoga-valley-national-park-ohio?srsltid=AfmBOopvncS3cAxOaod4KgE-LnxbzqvoeJajdekMSCe-nkw9O53XGovZ – Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Things to Do, Hiking Trails, Maps & Mor
- https://www.wellplannedadventures.com/blog/2-day-hiking-guide-for-hocking-hills – Two Day Hiking Guide for Hocking Hills State Park
- https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/hocking-hills-state-park – Hocking Hills State Park
- https://innatcedarfalls.com/blog/hocking-hills-hiking-trails/ – 5 of the Most Scenic Hocking Hills Hiking Trails – Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls
- https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/hiking-trails-waterfalls/ – Hiking, Trails, & Waterfalls – Starved Rock Lodge
- https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/starved-rock-state-park/ – Starved Rock State Park – Starved Rock Lodge
- https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park.starvedrock.html – Park
- https://www.nps.gov/slbe/planyourvisit/trails.htm – Hiking Trails – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (U.S. National Park Service)
- https://madelinemarquardt.com/ten-beautiful-trails-views-in-the-sleeping-bear-dunes/ – 11 Best Hiking Trails in the Sleeping Bear Dunes
- https://www.michigantrailmaps.com/member-detail/porcupine-mountains-wilderness-state-park/ – Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
- https://madelinemarquardt.com/best-things-to-do-porcupine-mountains-michigan-by-an-outdoor-guide/ – Best Things to do Porcupine Mountains, Michigan (by an outdoor guide!)
- https://www.uptravel.com/outdoors-recreation/national-state-parks/porcupine-mountains/ – Explore Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park | Upper Peninsula
- https://www.treelinereview.com/where-to-go/superior-hiking-trail – Superior Hiking Trail Backpacking Guide
- https://blissfulhiker.com/the-superior-hiking-trail/ – The Superior Hiking Trail overview | alison young • blissful hiker
- https://mwinns.com/blog/hiking-trails-in-minnesota/ – 10 Best Hiking Trails in Minnesota to Explore in 2025
- https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/devilslake/recreation/hiking – Hiking | Devil’s Lake State Park
- https://innatwawanisseepoint.com/blog/hiking-trails-devils-lake-state-park/ – 5 Great Hiking Trails at Devils Lake State Park – Inn at Wawanissee Point a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast
- https://www.amyscreativepursuits.com/2020/10/hiking-east-bluff-balanced-rock-trail.html?view=timeslide – Hiking The East Bluff & Balanced Rock Trail At Devil’s Lake State Park
- https://www.nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/hiking.htm – Hiking – Indiana Dunes National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- https://www.dirtyshoesandepicviews.com/blog/indiana-dunes-hikes – Three Easy Hikes in Indiana Dunes National Park (With Maps and Tips!) — Dirty Shoes & Epic Views
- https://anappleaplane.com/indiana-dunes-trails/ – 5 Incredible Indiana Dunes Trails
- https://www.natureimpactsus.com/new-blog/2019/6/24/the-black-hills-an-incredible-midwest-family-destination – Black Hills: Family Adventure Guide — Nature Impacts Us
- https://rushmoreexpress.com/black-hills-hiking-trails/ – Black Hills Hiking Guide: The 5 Best Trails | Rushmore Express
- https://www.kuhl.com/borninthemountains/best-hiking-trails-in-the-midwest?srsltid=AfmBOopjnEytqFx5WyYqgrhM0tdyFj7rv5CPPq2YRpfrS3ufBNaONF3U – Six Best Hiking Trails in the Midwest
- https://www.kellylynnssweetsandtreats.com/top-5-must-try-hiking-trails-in-the-midwest/ – Top 5 Must-Try Hiking Trails in the Midwest – Kelly Lynn’s Sweets and Treats
