Our travels would be nothing without the dirt paths along Michigan's thick forests and sandy seasides. Year-round, the state's trails hospitably guide us on foot, bike, or ski. 

For short trips, strap on your best hiking boots and bring a snack or two. If you're a hardcore hiker, you will need a backpack full of essentials. A compact tent, a water bottle or filter, and a sleeping bag are just the beginning.

But no matter how many miles, a map is always the key to a stress-free wander. 

Michigan has more than 2,000 trails leading through scenic wonders. Whether that be a suspension bridge or a rushing waterfall, each has something special to offer.

The 23-mile loop along the Manistee River is a combination of two trails. Travel along the 11-mile Manistee River, or hike the entire loop for a one- to three-day backpacking trek.

Cross suspension bridges, pass waterfalls and look over the river's edge. Walk-in campsites along the way make scenic adventure accessible.  

The loop starts and ends at Seaton Creek National Forest Campground in the mitten's pinky.  

The 17-mile trail takes at least nine hours to cover, and usually requires an overnight stay at the Blind Lake Campground.

Located in the Pinckney Recreation Area, the rustic route challenges you to climb and descend on inclined terrains. 

Better known as Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Pure Michigan deems this destination one of the most scenic hikes in Michigan.

The photo-worthy views along this 42-mile trail are unbeatable. The popular Upper Peninsula landmark can be explored in four to five days, with overnight stays at campgrounds along the way.

Located in Clarkston, the park has 15 miles of marked hiking trails. 

The multitude of hiking loops takes you along lakes, streams, ponds, and wildflowers fields.

The Orange Loop, or the Graham Lakes Trail, is the most rewarding path. Prepare to climb hilly terrain, but the scenic overlooks over the lakes make it all well worth it. 

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The 34-mile stretch takes you through farmlands to villages, glacial moraines to wetlands, and ends on the shore of Lake Michigan.

The Kal-Haven trail connects South Haven and Kalamazoo and is located on Michigan's lower west side. 

This prime-time destination for all things hiking, biking, and skiing lead over bridges to one of our Great Lakes. The crushed limestone trail welcomes all outdoor adventurers.