Fall Color Tour in West Michigan
Beautiful color emerges come Fall. Take it all in with an afternoon drive, or stroll, through the many forests of West Michigan.
Photos by the North Country Trail Association
It’s the longest hiking trail in the United States, stretching over seven states from New York to North Dakota. It’s the 4,600 mile North Country Trail. Created in 1980, the trail has 1,000 miles running through Michigan. The Spirit of the Woods Conservation Club is responsible for maintaining the 78-mile section of the North Country National Scenic Trail which passes through the Huron-Manistee National Forest. This chapter regularly holds hikes and work sessions to maintain the trail.
As the trail exits Ohio and enters southeastern Michigan, it veers toward the western side of the state. Entering the Manistee National Forest between Big Rapids and New Era, it continues its northerly path west of Baldwin, east of Manistee and south of Traverse City. It continues up past Harbor Springs, Petoskey, Mackinaw City and traverses the entire Upper Peninsula before crossing into Wisconsin.
The North Country Trail is primarily for hikers, where you can experience the beauty of the Manistee National Forest. Here you’re surrounded by pine hardwood trees and are treated to great views along the Manistee River Trail. Spring, summer, and fall are when hikers and bikers populate the trail. During the winter, you’ll find cold weather sports enthusiasts who use the trail for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
North Country Trail Association, Headquarters and Trail Shop
229 E. Main St., Lowell, MI 49331
(616) 897-5987 | (866) 445-3628 (toll free)
Beautiful color emerges come Fall. Take it all in with an afternoon drive, or stroll, through the many forests of West Michigan.
A site to behold along Lake Michigan, these structures with a rich history give both a sense of safety and a beautiful site.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
The colorful attire and crazy antics of the Scottville Clown Band amuse people, but they also have extraordinary musical talent.
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Standing tall and proud along the shores of Lake Michigan, Point Betsie marks the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage.
Various farm markets around Traverse City offer a bounty of the best-tasting produce around, with many open from May until early fall.
The Michigan Audubon Society Lake Bluff Center overlooks Lake Michigan near Manistee and features wildlife and a bird sanctuary.