The Midwest might be famous for its sprawling farmlands and bustling cities, but it's also home to some of the most scenic and rewarding hiking trails in the United States. From the lush forests of Michigan to the dramatic bluffs of Missouri, the Midwest offers a diverse array of landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. This article highlights some of the best hikes the Midwest has to offer, each providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the region.
Spanning nearly 310 miles along the North Shore of Lake Superior, the Superior Hiking Trail is a gem in the Midwest's crown. This long-distance trail offers hikers breathtaking views of the largest of the Great Lakes, dense forests, and countless waterfalls. While tackling the entire trail might be a feat for seasoned backpackers, there are numerous day hikes and short sections that provide just as much beauty and adventure. Notable spots include the Bean and Bear Lakes loop, offering stunning vistas, and the section near Tettegouche State Park, where hikers can explore the High Falls of the Baptism River.
Starved Rock State Park, located in Illinois, is a testament to the natural beauty hidden within the Midwest. The park is renowned for its steep sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater, with over 13 miles of trails winding through its rugged terrain. The trails lead to spectacular waterfalls (which are especially impressive in the spring or after heavy rains), deep gorges, and remarkable panoramic views. The hike to Starved Rock itself provides a breathtaking overlook of the Illinois River, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Midwest.
Hocking Hills State Park offers some of the most picturesque hiking in the Midwest, with trails that meander through dense forests, past waterfalls, and along cliffs of blackhand sandstone. The park's most famous trail, the Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave loop, spans about 6 miles and connects three of the park's most iconic landmarks. Each of these sites features unique natural formations and scenic beauty, making Hocking Hills a perfect destination for both casual hikers and photography enthusiasts.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, situated on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan along Lake Superior, is another jewel of the Midwest. The park offers over 100 miles of trails that traverse through diverse landscapes, including hardwood forests, wetlands, and sandy beaches. The trails offer stunning views of the multicolored sandstone cliffs from which the park gets its name. A popular hike is the Chapel Loop, approximately 10 miles long, which includes views of Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, and the breathtaking Lake Superior shoreline.
Devil’s Lake State Park, nestled in the Baraboo Range in Wisconsin, is the state's largest and most visited state park. The park's hiking trails offer spectacular views of the 360-acre Devil’s Lake, quartzite bluffs, and vibrant forests. The East Bluff and West Bluff trails are particularly popular, providing challenging climbs with rewarding views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The park also boasts unique rock formations and is a popular spot for rock climbing and bouldering.
Turkey Run State Park is a haven for hikers in Indiana, featuring deep canyons, sandstone gorges, and ancient stands of hemlock. The park's trail system allows visitors to explore these geological wonders up close, with suspension bridges and ladders adding to the adventure. The most celebrated trails include Trail 3, which passes through Rocky Hollow-Falls Canyon and requires navigating through shallow streams and around waterfalls, offering a true wilderness experience.
Missouri's Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is home to the highest point in the state and offers hikers panoramic views of the St. Francois Mountains. The park is part of the larger Ozark Trail, and a section of this trail, leading from the mountain to Mina Sauk Falls, is particularly noteworthy. This 3-mile loop trail takes hikers past Missouri’s tallest waterfall, through rugged mountain terrain, and offers some of the best scenic vistas in the Midwest.
Located in the Shawnee National Forest, the Garden of the Gods offers some of the most striking geological formations in the Midwest. The Observation Trail, a short 0.25-mile loop, provides easy access to breathtaking views of the sandstone rock formations and scenic vistas of the surrounding wilderness. Although the hike is relatively easy, the views are among the most memorable in the region, making it a perfect spot for families and photographers.
The Midwest is often overlooked as a destination for outdoor adventure, but as these trails prove, it is a region rich with natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenge or a casual walker seeking a peaceful stroll in nature, the Midwest has something to offer. These trails, each with its unique charm and beauty, showcase the best of what the Midwest's great outdoors has to offer. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your gear, and set out to explore these magnificent hikes—you might just discover your new favorite trail.