🥾 Top 5 Hikes Near Bellaire, Michigan

This beautiful 95-acre preserve near Torch Lake offers a peaceful escape through mixed hardwood forests with seasonal views of stunning Torch Lake. The well-maintained 1.5-mile loop trail winds through diverse terrain, perfect for a quick nature walk or family outing. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, and the trail is quiet and less crowded than other area hikes. In fall, the hardwood forest comes alive with brilliant colors, making this a favorite for leaf peepers.

Avalanche Mountain Preserve offers one of the most spectacular views in Northern Michigan. Choose your adventure: climb the famous 462-step stairway for a quick ascent to breathtaking Lake Charlevoix overlooks, or take the 2.6-mile loop trail through beautiful forested terrain. The observation deck at the summit provides commanding views of Boyne City, Lake Charlevoix, and on clear days, even Lake Michigan. This popular trail features well-marked paths, multiple route options, and is perfect for all skill levels.

Deadman's Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the Jordan River Valley and serves as the gateway to the legendary Jordan River Pathway. This 3.1-mile loop begins with a spectacular overlook—one of the most beloved viewing points for fall colors in the Lower Peninsula. The trail descends into the beautiful valley through impressive rock formations and along peaceful streams before a challenging climb back to the summit. Rich with logging history and natural beauty, this trail is especially popular during autumn when the surrounding hills blaze with color.

Just minutes from Bellaire, Grass River Natural Area is a 1,502-acre preserve featuring 7 miles of exceptional trails through diverse habitats. The 2.4-mile main loop includes 1.5 miles of accessible boardwalk trails floating above pristine wetlands, offering up-close views of the crystal-clear Grass River, sedge meadows, and cedar swamps. With over 147 bird species sighted and abundant wildflowers, this is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The Grass River Center provides educational exhibits, and trails are well-marked and perfect for all ages and abilities.

Ranked #1 as Bellaire's premier trail system! Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area is one of the Midwest's finest trail destinations, offering 31.5 miles of professionally-designed, well-maintained trails through 800 acres of rolling, forested terrain. With multiple trailheads and countless loop options ranging from short family walks to challenging full-day adventures, there's something for everyone. The trails wind through diverse habitats with stunning valley views, seasonal wildflowers, and elevation changes reaching over 400 feet. Popular for hiking, running, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, Glacial Hills captures the essence of Northern Michigan's natural beauty.