Day Trips from Lansing
← All Lansing day tripsDay Trips from Lansing: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Lansing, 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 Lansing
Iargo Springs
MI 48750, USA
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Lansing, rated 4.9 stars by 504 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.
Bundy Hill Preserve
Remus, MI 49340
Just 1 hr 26 min from Lansing, rated 4.9 stars by 143 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 59 min from Lansing, 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.
West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve
West Bloomfield Township, MI 48323
Just 1 hr 9 min from Lansing, rated 4.8 stars by 596 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 52 min from Lansing, 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.
Deerfield Hills Nature Area
Fenton, MI 48430
Just 56 min from Lansing, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Seven Springs Nature Preserve
Indian River, MI 49749
Just 2 hrs 52 min from Lansing, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rosy Mound Natural Area
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Just 1 hr 36 min from Lansing, rated 4.8 stars by 1,347 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 50 min from Lansing, 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.
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve
Southfield, MI 48033
Just 1 hr 7 min from Lansing, 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.
Barton Nature Area
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Just 57 min from Lansing, rated 4.7 stars by 612 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.
Roscommon State Forest Area
Roscommon Township, MI 48653
Just 1 hr 45 min from Lansing, rated 4.7 stars by 2,578 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 Lansing
What are the best hiking trails near Lansing, MI?
The best hikes near Lansing 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 Lansing?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Lansing 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 Lansing?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Lansing 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 Lansing?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Lansing. 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.
Don't know where to go?
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