Michigan's natural beauty provides ample opportunity for scenic and challenging hikes--so much so that avid hikers have mobilized into clubs by region. These clubs have grown in size over time by taking advantage of what the state's trail systems and parks have to offer. You'll be able to find at least one hiking club in Michigan to suit your tastes and abilities.
Preparation
Regardless of your club of choice (by geography), there are some basics items you should bring with you on your hike, according to Hiking Michigan. This free organization of more than 1,000 members suggests bringing fresh water (as drinking water is not guaranteed in many remote or more rugged areas of Michigan) and hiking boots with good tread. Michigan's weather is unpredictable, so don't forget a plastic garbage bag that can double as a raincoat.
Southeast
Though the organization is called "Hiking Michigan," the group's members are located in eight populous counties in the southeastern part of the state--Livingston, Washtinaw, Wayne, Genesee, Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair and Lapeer. This club regularly offers two- to eight-mile hikes through recreational areas and metro parks. It also offers specialty hikes, such as those at night with a campfire, historical trails, challenging or faster-paced gatherings or hikes with your dog. The Sierra Club also operates a group in southeast Michigan, one of 10 covering the state with the exception of the west-central region. The Sierra Club offers day, wilderness and conservation hikes free of charge. The only costs are associated with entry fees into state parks and for camping and shared meals.
Southwest
The Kalamazoo Valley Walkers Club is headquartered out of the second largest city in the region. The group, which includes competitive race walkers, has identified the top paved and unpaved pedestrian trails, arboretums and forests for walking in the county, according to its official site. In addition to organized walks, it also extends training and competitive opportunities to its members.
Central
Great Lakes Ramblers is associated with a much broader, global organization for hikers called Volkssport. It offers noncompetitive walks and encourages participants of all ages and abilities. Two lengths of regularly scheduled hikes are offered: the 5 or 6K option or a 10 or 11K option.
North
Michigan is one of a handful of states home to the North Country Trail, a 4,600-mile-trail extending through seven states. It passes through both the upper and lower peninsulas of the state and has its own North Country Trail Association (NCTA). The association has several chapters, including the North Country Trail Hikers chapter in the upper peninsula, the NCTA's first chartered chapter. Its 100 members are mostly from the Marquette area and enjoy hikes, snowshoeing and trail clean-up days.
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