We operate more than 12,500 miles of state-designated trails, including:
nearly 4,000 miles of hiking trails • 2,700 plus miles of rail trails connecting communities • 3,600 plus miles of designated ORV trails • 6,000 plus miles of designated snowmobile trails • 1,300 plus miles of equestrian trails • nearly 2,000 mile of biking trails • 1,000 plus miles of state park trails
- Explore Michigan's Trails
Michigan has an incredible array of trails that are developed and maintained by an extensive collaboration of state and local governments, non-profits, foundations and volunteers.
Our trail system provides access to a diverse set of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, berry and mushroom picking and much more. Trails also help drive our economy by attracting out-of-state visitors, creating jobs, attracting new residents, assisting in placemaking, increasing property values and connecting people to our natural resources.
- Michigan Trails Advisory Council
The Michigan Trails Advisory Council advises the director of the DNR and the governor on the creation, development, operation and maintenance of motorized and nonmotorized trails.
Michigan Trails Plan
- Comprehensive Trail Plan (2013 - 2018)
The Comprehensive Trail Plan, developed by the MTAC, includes priority recommendations and key actions to establish a high-quality, statewide trail system.
- State Trails Implementation Plan
The State Trails Implementation Plan is a five-year action plan, building upon the priorities identified in the Comprehensive Trails Plan.
Grants
- Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Trail Improvement Program
Provides funding for maintenance of established ORV trails and facilities as part of the designated statewide trail system. It also funds development of new trails and facilities, and restoration of areas damaged by ORV use. Government agencies and nonprofit, incorporated clubs and organizations are eligible.
- Snowmobile Trail Improvement Program
Provides funding to maintain snowmobile trails as part of the designated statewide trail system including seasonal grooming and general maintenance, special maintenance projects that improve the condition and/or access to trails, and replacement of equipment used for maintaining trails.
- Recreation Trails Program
Provides funding for the maintenance and development of recreational trails and trail-related facilities. The DNR must always be the applicant. Local unit of government sponsored projects can be considered for funding if they contribute to DNR program goals and they are located on DNR land or are linked to a trail on DNR land.
- Recreation Improvement Fund
Provides funding for the operation, maintenance and development of recreation trails and restoration of lands damaged by off-road vehicles and inland lake cleanup. The DNR must always be the applicant. Local unit of government sponsored projects can be considered for funding if they contribute to DNR program goals and they are located on DNR land or linked to a trail on DNR land.
