Things to Do in Manistee County

Manistee County offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, jogging, and touring cycling. The region features extensive trail networks, scenic waterways, and the Lake Michigan shoreline. There are 43 routes available on komoot, with an average rating of 5.0 stars.

A prominent hiking option is the Manistee River Trail and North Country Trail loop, which offers a roughly 20-mile (32 km) scenic route. Other notable trails include the Beech-Hemlock Hiking Trail at Orchard Beach State Park and the universally accessible Old Baldy trail. More details can be found in the Hiking in Manistee County guide.

Yes, Manistee County offers easy hiking options suitable for various skill levels. The Old Baldy trail within Arcadia Dunes is universally accessible and provides panoramic views. The Manistee Riverwalk is a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) paved path suitable for a leisurely walk or jog. For more options, consult the Easy hikes in Manistee County guide.

The Big-M Recreation Area is a premier destination for mountain biking, featuring over 40 miles (64 km) of trails within the Manistee National Forest. This system offers diverse loop combinations for various skill levels. The Manistee Non-Motorized Park also provides mountain biking trails, including a skills park. Explore routes in the MTB Trails in Manistee County guide.

Touring cyclists can enjoy routes showcasing the Manistee National Forest and Lake Michigan shoreline. A popular route is the Manistee loop from Orchard Beach State Park, which is nearly 31 miles (50 km) long. The Arcadia Dunes area also offers scenic routes like the Arcadia – Arcadia Dunes Loop, which is 19.3 miles (31.1 km). Find more options in the Cycling in Manistee County guide.

Manistee County features 25 miles (40 km) of Lake Michigan shoreline, including three Lake Michigan harbors. The vast Manistee National Forest covers thousands of acres, offering extensive trails. Notable dune formations include the scenic views from Old Baldy and the remote Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. The Manistee River flows through the forest, providing picturesque vistas.

Many trails within the Manistee National Forest and other public lands in Manistee County generally permit dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. Visitors should check specific trail regulations before heading out. The Manistee River Trail and Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area are popular choices for hikers with dogs.

Generally, permits are not required for day hiking on most trails in Manistee County, including those within the Manistee National Forest. However, some areas, particularly for overnight camping or specific activities, may require fees or permits. Visitors should verify requirements for their specific activity and location.

Komoot offers several guides for Manistee County to help plan outdoor adventures. These include Hiking in Manistee County, Easy hikes in Manistee County, MTB Trails in Manistee County, Running Trails in Manistee County, Cycling in Manistee County, and Road Cycling Routes in Manistee County.

Manistee County is a popular destination on komoot, with more than 700 visitors sharing their experiences. The region has 43 routes available, which have received an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among komoot users.

For general inquiries, the official website for Manistee County is www.manisteecountymi.gov. The Manistee County Clerk's Office can be reached at 231-723-3331. For non-emergency situations, Manistee County Central Dispatch can be contacted at 231-723-6241.

Many multi-use trails in Manistee County are suitable for jogging. The Manistee Riverwalk is a popular 1.5-mile (2.4 km) paved path along the Manistee River, offering a peaceful setting. Other trails within the Manistee National Forest and areas like Arcadia Dunes also provide suitable terrain for jogging. More options are available in the Running Trails in Manistee County guide.