Day Trips from Ann Arbor
← All Ann Arbor day tripsDay Trips from Ann Arbor: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Ann Arbor, MI. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Ann Arbor
Rocky River Reservation
North Olmsted, OH 44070
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 7,688 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Crane Creek Wildlife Research
Oak Harbor, OH 43449
Just 1 hr 23 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 160 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Oak Openings Preserve Metropark
Swanton, OH 43558
Just 1 hr 4 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 2,709 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wildwood Preserve Metropark
Toledo, OH 43615
Just 50 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 4,762 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
MacCready Nature Reserve
Clarklake, MI 49234
Just 51 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 275 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum
Burton, MI 48509
Just 1 hr 2 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 2,275 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Charleston Falls Preserve
Tipp City, OH 45371
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 1,855 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
USA
Just 2 hrs 44 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 14,331 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve
Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
Just 2 hrs 36 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars by 298 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sandy Ridge Reservation
North Ridgeville, OH 44039
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars by 927 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cedar Creeks Preserve
Northwood, OH 43619
Just 1 hr 8 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars by 227 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve
Southfield, MI 48033
Just 41 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars by 1,087 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Ann Arbor
What are the best hiking trails near Ann Arbor, MI?
The best hikes near Ann Arbor range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Ann Arbor?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Ann Arbor offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Ann Arbor?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Ann Arbor are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Ann Arbor?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Ann Arbor. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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