It’s hard to miss the stunning fall colors in the Great Lakes State. If you want to catch them at their peak, you can’t go wrong with Manistee National Forest. This woodland area is full of great camping and hiking opportunities that take you from the shores of Lake Michigan as far inland as Grand Rapids. It’s arguably the most beautiful in the fall, and it’s not hard to see why.
We’re starting off strong with a beautiful view that really allows you to take in all of autumn at once. Manistee National Forest extends as far west as Lake Michigan and as east as Grand Rapids. The large area means you might be taking in Manistee views without realizing it.
Since the forests are so vast, there are numerous tree-lined roads that give you great views of the changing seasons. The area earned the National Forest distinction in 1938 and spans more than half a million acres.
Among the vast forests, you’ll come across areas of reclaimed prairie. You’ll see clusters of trees just like this one standing tall above the grass. You can even bring your pets with you as long as they’re on a leash.
This isn’t a photo of something under the microscope; it’s the bird’s eye view of Manistee National Forest. I’m always impressed with just how many colors come to life in the fall. If you’re someone who needs to see it to believe it, head to this scenic spot.
If you’re by the lakeshore, you’ll not only see the changing leaves but also the beautiful horizon of Lake Michigan. Lake access is best in the area just north of Ludington State Park.
The Manistee River cuts right through Manistee National Forest. The park installed a suspension bridge that not only brings you across the river but also gives some of the most scenic views in the area.
One of the more accessible places to stop and stare at the leaves is right off Highway 37. The Hodenpyl Dam created a lake that’s bordered by tall trees that put on a wonderful show in the fall. People often stop here along the road to take a picture.
You can keep up to date with the changing colors at Manistee National Forest with their fall color tracker. This allows you to see the leaves without making the long trip, but trust me, it’s worth visiting in person. If you’re hoping to get some hiking in as well, make sure you’re prepared with some of these great accessories from REI.
Have you ever wanted to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of your busy life? You know, get back to your roots and spend some time in nature? Maybe you have dreams of spending some silent solo time in the water in a kayak or canoe. Or perhaps you want to spend some time observing our fine feathered friends.
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No matter which activity you're looking for in a Michigan hiking trail, as long as you're looking for some quiet alone time, we have discovered a remote hiking trail in Michigan that fits the bill perfectly!
Near Watesmeet, Michigan, Clark Lake Trails is part of the Sylvania Wilderness. Spanning over 18,000 acres, Sylvania Wilderness is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. This program encompasses over 800 wilderness areas across the country -- over 111 million acres of land and water!
The hiking loop at Clark Lake Trail is considered to be moderately challenging. At just over eight miles, it takes about two and a half hours to complete. And the best part about this remote hiking trail in Michigan is that, according to past visitors, you'll often be the only person on the trail.
Can't you just imagine sitting here, all alone, without a care in the world? Instead of waiting for that next thing to interrupt you, you relax and let go of all life's worries. Sounds wonderful, doesn't it
Spending time in nature is so essential for your mental health. It helps you manage stress, improves your mood, and improves your focus and creativity.
Clark Lake Trail in the Sylvania Wilderness is the perfect spot for just that. Particularly in the fall, when the changing leaves are simply breathtaking.
Visitors report that the trail is marked but not as clear as it should be. For this reason, it's important to print out a map. It's not very relaxing to get lost, is it?!
If I were planning a trip to the Clark Lake Trail in Watersmeet, Michigan, I'd be sure to time it so I'm there for the sunset. If the photo above indicates anything, the view looks absolutely stunning.
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Bonus: if you hold a Michigan State Camping Permit, you can also stay the night right in the middle of the gorgeous wilderness.
The trees on this trail are part of an old-growth forest, which means the white and red pines reach into the sky almost further than the eye can see.
This secluded hiking trail in the Upper Peninsula of the Mitten State might be the perfect place to get away from it all. Aside from making sure to have a printed map with you, the number one tip previous hikers gave was simple:
Bring bug spray. We love this one - it's natural and easy to apply. You can't ask for anything more than that!
Have you discovered an off-the-beaten-path hiking trail in Michigan? Tell me about it in the comments!
It’s about that time in Michigan when we watch the trees go from green to lovely golds, reds, and rusty browns. The Michigan fall foliage is something we treasure here as well as all the fun fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and various free and cheap events. Fall in Michigan is one of the best times to be here as local traditions bring us together. Welcome to our ultimate guide to fall attractions and activities in Michigan.
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Michigan Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Michigan For Fall Foliage
Our beautiful state of Michigan is already breathtaking during the rest of the year, but fall adds so much more with the vivid colors it brings. There’s nothing like hiking a trail or taking a drive to see it in person, especially during the peak season during the last week of September and the first two weeks of October. Here are some of the best places to visit in Michigan in fall to see these colorful displays:
Wow Factor: Hiawatha National Forest is one of the largest national forests at almost 900,000 acres.
Need To Know: The Hiawatha National Forest contains beaches, lighthouses, trails, islands, and so much more.
The Hiawatha National Forest is one of our state treasures that spans 894,836 acres and is filled with hiking trails where you can witness the splendor of nature and walk on a carpet of colorful leaves. It’s also a wonderful place to camp, especially along the shores of Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, or Lake Superior. Make sure to visit it this year.
Wow Factor: The old-growth forest here contains trees that are over 300 years old.
Need To Know: The best place to see fall colors here is on the Old Growth Trail.
One place that people come to from all over Michigan to see the fall colors is Hartwick Pines State Park, especially due to the old growth forest here. A hike through these ancient trees evokes such a sense of wonder and reverence and it’s such a magical feeling to see them in person. Don’t miss this one!
Wow Factor: This became a national forest way back in 1938 and it sprawls over half a million acres.
Need To Know: A great place for a photo opportunity is by the Hodenpyl Dam.
A drive through the Manistee National Forest is simply stunning and there are endless trails to walk along. There’s something about hearing the wind through the trees and the birds singing while watching leaves float gently to the ground that brings a great sense of peace.
Wow Factor: Hidden Lake Gardens has a Sky Walk for magnificent views and even a Bonsai Courtyard.
Need To Know: Hidden Lake Gardens is open Tuesdays through Sundays. Admission includes all attractions.
If you really want to get up close and personal with the fall foliage, traverse the Sky Walk at Hidden Lake Gardens. This walkway will put you at eye level with the branches and leaves so you don’t have to crane your neck looking upwards. It’s a novel and fun experience that shouldn’t be missed.
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Best Pumpkin Patches In Michigan
Who doesn’t love a good pumpkin patch? Families in Michigan look forward all year to the state’s many pumpkin patches where they can enjoy rides, corn mazes, scrumptious baked goods, and play with abandon. Let's check out some of the best pumpkin patches in Michigan.
Wow Factor: In addition to pumpkins, you can get Zestar and Honey Crisp apples here during the fall.
Need To Know: The fall season at Jacob's Farm runs from September 2 to October 31, 2024.
Jacob’s Farm is a wonderful fall destination. It has a 10-acre corn maze, fresh donuts, mulled cider, hard cider, and right around Halloween the maze transforms into the Scare Maze with various frightening characters waiting to pounce! Grab some fresh produce from the U-pick farm while you’re here.
Wow Factor: There's a classic car show featuring over 200 old-fashioned cars!
Need To Know: The fall festivities at Jonson's Pumpkin Farm run from September 7 to October 31, 2024.
Families love Johnson’s Pumpkin Farm not only for the vast collection of pumpkins and the wide array of activities, but also because it’s absolutely free. Several events take place here during the fall season including a Fall Craft Show with over 100 vendors, a historical re-enactment, and a huge classic car show. Plus, there’s a 13-acre corn maze!
Wow Factor: You can pet farm animals like cow, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, bunnies, and kittens!
Need To Know: Gust Brother's Pumpkin Farm's fall activities take place from Labor Day to Halloween every year.
Gust Brother’s Pumpkin Patch is known for its homey and wholesome atmosphere as well as scrumptious donuts and cider. You can go on a hay ride, get tons of decorations for your home, and pick your own pumpkins and flowers. Don’t forget to pick up some homemade apple butter, local honey, and Amish jam.
Best Fall Festivals In Michigan
Fall in Michigan is the time when all kinds of festivals take place honoring various cultures, focusing on delicious foods, and celebrating the fall harvest. Not to mention enjoying a ton of live music, rides, and a vast selection of activities and entertainment. Here are some of the best fall festivals in Michigan:
Wow Factor: This is the first Oktoberfest to operate with the blessing of the original Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany!
Need To Know: Frankenmuth Oktoberfest will take place from September 19 to September 22, 2024.
The Frankenmuth Oktoberfest may just be the most authentic one in America. You’ll find cowbells and Bavarian antiques from the Munich Hofbrauhaus, a yodeler straight from Germany, and dancers from the Austrian Alps. Don’t forget about all the great German beer and food as well as so much live music and a ton of fun activities. This is the only Oktoberfest you need.
Wow Factor: Apple growers from all over the state bring their best apples here and you can get a bag to take home with you.
Need To Know: The Four Flags Area Apple Festival will run from September 26 to September 29, 2024.
You won’t just like these apples, you’ll love them! The Four Flags Area Apple Festival is a huge event that Michiganders look forward to all year. There’s a massive carnival will all kinds of games and rides, a 2-Hour Grande Parade, amazing live music, and every kind of apple confection you can imagine. Pies, donuts, cider, cookies, pastries…if it can have apple in it, it will!
Wow Factor: This year will mark the 30th anniversary of the Appleumpkin Festival!
Need To Know: The Appleumpkin Festival will happen on October 12 and 13, 2024.
The charming town of Tecumseh comes alive every year when the Appleumpkin Festival starts. If you’re a fan of small-town festivals, you'll adore this one. It’s a bit of a tradition for people from all over Michigan to make a trip for this. There are midway rides and carnival games, bungee jumping, a corn box, and miniature golf, all for free. For a fee, you can enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride!
Wow Factor: Downtown Frankenmuth becomes filled with scarecrows of all kinds during this event.
Need To Know: Scarecrow Fest is happening on two weekends: October 19 & 20 and October 26 & 27, 2024.
At the Scarecrow Fest, you can try out a pumpkin catapult, go pumpkin bowling, do pumpkin paintings, and also see some very creative scarecrows all over downtown! Enjoy a ride on a tiny barrel train and a doggie costume contest as well. There are several fun activities for the little ones and the family will have a wonderful time.
Free & Cheap Michigan Fall Activities
Even after seeing so much beautiful fall foliage, finding fun pumpkin patches, and planning for exciting fall festivals, you’re wondering, “What are some more fall activities near me?” Well, we've got you covered! Especially if you want to save some money and see some of the best places to visit in Michigan in the fall. Here are some free and cheap Michigan fall activities you’re sure to enjoy:
Wow Factor: These mazes can span tens of acres at times!
Need To Know: Corn mazes vary in price and in size, so be sure to check the site of the location you're considering to make sure.
Corn mazes are a popular fall tradition for families in Michigan where people try not to get lost while wandering among acres of cornstalks. They can be quite sizable and take a long time to traverse, but they’re so much fun. Plus, they’re generally quite cheap so you can enjoy a day of fun while keeping your wallet intact.
Wow Factor: This is not only the state's northernmost community, but one of the most beautiful places to see fall colors.
Need To Know: The Brockway Mountain Drive is a wonderful way to experience this lovely town and the surrounding area.
Just taking a drive to Copper Harbor is worth the entire trip as this gorgeous area will take your breath away. However, the town is definitely worth visiting as there’s the Copper Harbor Lighthouse which was built in 1866 and has spectacular views. The old-fashioned Gas Lite General Store has so much charm and is a great place to pick up supplies. You’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time when you visit this tiny and idyllic town.
Wow Factor: If you reach the summit around sunset, the views are simply incredible!
Need To Know: This is a short, 1.4-mile loop trail that is considered to be moderately challenging.
If you want one of the most stunning views in the state, take a fall hike on the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail. It’s a short and somewhat challenging hike but it is so worth it. Plus, it’s free! The trail is well-maintained and there’s an observatory platform. Remember to bring your camera!
Wow Factor: This arboretum stretches on for 70 acres and has a 6,000-foot greenhouse.
Need To Know: Admission to Leila Arboretum is absolutely free.
The vast and gorgeous Leila Arboretum is not only a great place to take in some lovely fall colors, but there’s a Fantasy Forest with trees carved into the shapes of creatures like dragons, bears, wizards, and more. It’s a magical place that’s free to visit and will make for a wonderful family adventure.
Our guide to the best things to do in fall in Michigan will set you on your way to all kinds of fantastic adventures. Please share your experiences with us in the comments. We’d love to hear about them. If you’re up for a fun road trip, this one will show you even more glorious locations to see the fall colors in all their glory:
