Famous for its mixture of flat prairies and rugged, hilly terrain through the majority of the states, the Midwest is often overlooked by nature lovers for hiking routes. However, its diverse terrain, from rolling hills to lush forests, lakes, and more, presents some of the most breathtaking, underrated hikes any nature enthusiast would be thrilled to explore. From locations like Devil’s Lake State Park, offering challenging climbs atop towering bluffs, to hikes winding along the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan, the Midwest has incredible locations packed with hiking trails for all abilities.
The below guide explores seven of the best places to hike in the Midwest, from Ohio to Michigan.
Superior Hiking Trail in Superior National Forest (Minnesota)
Along Minnesota’s North Shore, outdoor enthusiasts will find a plethora of hiking routes and outdoor activities in Superior National Forest. This Minnesota national forest offers hundreds of square miles of cold and warm water streams, which provide the ideal backdrop for lush forestry, rocky landscapes, and various wildlife.
Among the top trails in the forest is Superior Hiking Trail, which is an impressive 310-mile route mainly running alongside Lake Superior. Many hikers prefer to visit sections of the trail instead of trekking the entire route.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Michigan)
The most famous national lakeshore in Michigan is also one of the most epic hiking destinations – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This location offers incredible bluffs that jut out right from the water, providing views of tucked-away beaches and the stunning pictured rocks. This national lakeshore is named for the rocks that make up the bluffs, as their rich mineral content appears like painted stripes. Hiking routes in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore include various trails leading up to and alongside the water/beach.
Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)
One of the most unique national parks in the Midwest is Isle Royale National Park, a stunning location that can only be explored after arriving via seaplane or boat. This national park sits alongside the northwestern portion of Lake Superior, providing a combination of lake, forest, and rock landscapes. Within the park, visitors will find 100 hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
Ozark Mountains (Missouri)
The Ozarks span four states in the US: Kansas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. This vast mountain range offers hikers ample opportunities for exploration, with more than 390 miles of trails to journey through. The most famous route in the Ozark Mountains is the Missouri Ozark Trail, which consists of eight trail sections running north to south. In total, this trail covers an area of 230 miles. Along this trail, you can find varying views, including caves, flowering meadows, tranquil woodlands, wetlands, and more.
Manistee River (Michigan)
The winding Manistee River lies in Michigan, offering extensive views of lush forests whose beauty is amplified by the changing colors of autumn. Alongside this magnificent 190-mile river lies the Manistee River Trail, a route that extends 23 miles. This loop offers a trek through wetlands, over pedestrian bridges, and nearby a waterfall. Along the route, you can stop at multiple observation areas to recharge and take in the natural beauty of the river and surrounding area.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
Nearby Akron and Cleveland, you’ll find one of the most magical national parks in the Midwest – Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Within the restored park, hikers can explore a whopping 125 miles of trails, which include views of wetlands, creeks, and shale cliffs. While many opt to dive into the park’s natural beauty through hiking, there are other ways to enjoy this location, including biking, riding on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, or paddling on the Cuyahoga River.
Loess Hills State Forest (Iowa)
Loess Hills State Forest is home to unique land formations – the Loess Hills. These hills are created over time by loess (sediment) deposits carried by the wind. These hills feature rounded tops and lush grassy coverage, providing a natural scene unlike anywhere else in the US. The Loess Hills are spread over multiple states, including Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota.
One of the best places to hike in the Midwest is the Badger Ridge Trail Loop in Iowa’s Hitchcock Nature Center, a short 3.1-mile route with views of rolling hills and gorgeous Nebraska plains. While on the shorter side, this loop provides the best views out of the hiking options in the Loess Hills State Forest. It’s also ideal for hikers of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
Additional Hiking Trails/Locations Worth Visiting in the Midwest
An additional hiking route worth exploring is the Border Route Trail, which runs alongside the border of Minnesota and Canada. The East Bluff Trail, another top offering in the Midwest, is a moderate trail in Devil’s Lake State Park that guides hikers on a roundtrip journey beginning at Devil’s Doorway Trailhead.
Locations like the Mines of Spain in Iowa offer incredible views of the Mississippi River alongside rugged bluffs, while Shawnee National Forest trails provide diverse landscapes, ranging from forests to lakes. The incredible Badlands National Park in South Dakota offers breathtaking scenery and unique hike features, like ladders midway through trails.
