Guest blog from "Outside Pursuits"

Muskegon is an ideal base from which to plan hiking adventures along the shores of Lake Michigan. As the largest city on the western shore of Michigan, it provides all the comforts of civilization while also offering access to many scenic hiking trails that lead into unspoiled countryside with some of the best panoramic views in the state. Here are the top hikes in the area that showcase Muskegon’s natural beauty.

Dune Climb at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park

Wooden signpost indicating "Dune Climb Overlook" and "Lake Michigan Beach" at the start of a stairway through a forest.

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park has been recognized as the “Best Hiking Spot” in the Grand Haven Tribune People’s Choice Awards for multiple years. This 3-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline offers scenic views of towering sand dunes, providing the perfect backdrop for hikers. The park features the Dune Climb Stairway, which leads you to the top of the tallest dune. From there, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and surrounding forests.

Father and child walking hand in hand on a sandy beach path with grassy dunes on either side. One is wearing a blue t-shirt with a bicycle graphic, shorts, and a hat, and the other is in a teal top and patterned shorts.

Along with its hiking trails, Hoffmaster also offers the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center, where you can learn about the park's ecosystem. Nature lovers may want to bring binoculars to observe migrating songbirds like orioles, sparrows, and warblers, or even spot hawks, eagles, and falcons. During the winter months, Hoffmaster’s trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, making it a year-round destination.

Dune Harbor County Park

Two adults and a baby in a carrier enjoy a sunny day by a lakeside, surrounded by trees and tall grass.

Photo courtesy of Land Conservancy of West Michigan

Dune Harbor County Park spans over 376 acres of forested dunes, two inland lakes, and Lake Michigan shoreline. With more than two miles of trails, including a 2.3-mile loop around South Lake and a route leading to North Lake, this new park is a haven for hiking, paddling, wildlife viewing, and catch-and-release fishing for perch, bass, and bluegill. Popular among birders, the park lies along the Lake Michigan Flyway and features diverse habitats that attract a wide variety of species. Dogs are welcome on leashes, and parking is available at Lincoln Street and Seminole Road.

The Muskegon Blockhouse Trail at Muskegon State Park

Two people standing outside the The Muskegon Blockhouse at Muskegon State Park on a sunny day.

Muskegon State Park is another great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its winter activities, the park features 12 miles of scenic hiking trails that pass through diverse landscapes and offer views of Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake. The Muskegon Blockhouse, a historic replica of Fort Dearborn, sits atop one of the highest points in the county and offers some of the best views in Muskegon.

An individual in a motorized all-terrain wheelchair is on a wooden boardwalk with trees and lake Michigan in the background, enjoying the view. The person is wearing a blue T-shirt.

The park also provides access to a number of amenities including campgrounds, fishing piers, a boat launch, and picnic areas. For those with mobility challenges, the Muskegon State Park Track Chair and Beach Chair Program offers free off-road chairs that allow everyone to enjoy the trails and shoreline.

Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail

yellow lillies in foreground, two people riding bikes in background, green trees and blue sky

The Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail is an 11.5-mile paved path that offers a peaceful walk through forests of pine and oak. This trail, which follows an abandoned railroad route, connects Muskegon to White Lake, Whitehall, and Montague. The trail also passes by Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park and crosses Bear Creek.

For those looking to explore further, the Berry Junction Trail connects to several other paved tracks, including the Muskegon Lakeshore Trail and the Laketon Trail. It also leads to several local parks like Muskegon County Pioneer Park and Duck Lake State Park, offering even more scenic hikes along the lakeshore.

The Musketawa Trail

A water bottle branded "Visit Muskegon" stands on a wooden picnic table, with a bicycle handlebar to the left and a black helmet to the right, against a blurred natural backdrop.

For longer hikes, the Musketawa Trail is a 26-mile, paved path that connects Muskegon to Marne. This trail offers a variety of landscapes, including forests, orchards, and farmlands, and features a number of historic sites, such as a century-old railway water tower at Ravenna and the 216-foot-long railway trestle bridge over Crockery Creek. Hikers can also explore vintage railroad signals and signs along the trail. In the winter, it becomes a popular snowshoeing and snowmobiling route. The Musketawa Trail also connects to the Laketon Trail and Muskegon Lakeshore Trail, providing even more opportunities for adventure.

Three people cycling on a lakeside path with a moored ship labeled "USS LST 393" in the background, and a green landscape visible in the distance.

While on the Muskegon Lakeshore Trail, those with an interest in WWII naval and maritime history should be on the lookout for the Milwaukee Clipper, the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, and the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, all of which are rich in history and offer unique educational experiences.

Mosquito Creek Trails

A cyclist wearing a helmet and bright clothing is riding a mountain bike on a trail amid colorful autumn trees. Fallen leaves carpet the ground.

Photo courtesy of Kristine Tyler

The Mosquito Creek Trails, nestled in a scenic 500-acre forested valley in central Muskegon County, offer an exceptional outdoor experience for hikers, bikers, and adventurers of all skill levels. With nearly 12 miles of trails, this system is designed to cater to everyone, from families with young kids to experienced hikers seeking a challenge.

The kids' trail is perfect for little ones, offering a short and easy path through the woods. For beginners, there’s a gentle trail to enjoy the natural beauty of the area at a relaxed pace. The intermediate trails provide more variety and stunning views, and for those looking for a real adventure, the advanced trail offers a rugged, challenging route. Whether you're here for a short stroll or a longer trek, the Mosquito Creek Trails have something for everyone, making it a great spot to connect with nature.

Trail Etiquette and Preservation Tips

Woman walking on a forest trail surrounded by lush green trees and shrubs.

Before you hit the trail, it’s important to remember some basic trail etiquette to help preserve these natural spaces for everyone. Always avoid walking or biking on muddy trails, as this can damage the trail surface, create ruts, and contribute to erosion. If you notice deep footprints, bicycle ruts, or hoof tracks, the trail is likely too muddy to use.

Hint: Follow the DNR Trail Etiquette Guidelines to learn more about maintaining these beautiful trails and ensuring their longevity for future hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Person seated a fat tire bicycle on a grassy dune overlooking Lake Michigan, with the sun setting in the background.

Enjoy your hike through Muskegon’s stunning natural beauty! Whether you’re climbing sand dunes or exploring backcountry trails, Muskegon County offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Michigan.

For more information and in-depth guides on outdoor activities, visit OutsidePursuits.com.

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