Hiawatha National Forest: The Best Trails for Hikers

Get a breath of fresh air along one of Michigan’s most scenic places. From stunning views of Lake Superior to sandy beaches and caves; discover all of these trails at Hiawatha National Forest. Join us as we explore the best hikes of Hiawatha National Forest, providing you a gateway to the diverse landscapes of the Great North.

Top Trails

It is our pleasure at Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground to introduce you to these hiking adventures. Take a look at our carefully curated list of hikes below, each selected with your stay in mind.

Grand Island Loop

Length: 20.5 miles

Difficulty: Hard

Best time to visit: May - October

Grand Island Loop outlines the entirety of Grand Island, hence the name.

If you’re hoping to admire picturesque views of Lake Superior from a unique perspective, Grand Island Loop would be a suitable option for such an ambition.

Bird watching, backpacking, and mountain biking are a few activities that can be undertaken along this trail as well.

Bruno’s Run



Length: 10.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Best time to visit: April - October

Bruno’s Run is a loop trail that takes hikers through the wooded areas that encompass Moccasin Lake, Petes Lake, Grassy Lake, Wedge Lake, and other notable lakes. A fair amount of wildlife is said to roam around Bruno’s Run. Reconnect with nature in Hiawatha National Forest as you hike, mountain bike, or run along this loop trail.

Foley Creek Trail



Length: 3.1 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Best time to visit: July - October

For those who are short on time, Foley Creek Trail takes less than an hour to complete. At the very end, hikers are rewarded with a striking view of the beach.

Bring sturdy shoes and bug spray, as some areas are swampier than others, especially around August.

Foley Creek Trail has also been known to be the trekking grounds for a variety of wildlife.

Mission Hill



Length: 3.6 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Best time to visit: April - October

While a variety of terrain characterizes Mission Hill, the trail is fairly clear. Mission Hill offers the perfect spot for fishermen to set up for a catch, as the path meanders past Monocle Lake. On average, it takes about an hour and a half to finish Mission Hill. The route is ranked moderately difficult for having steep points and narrow paths in some areas.

What are The Eben Ice Caves?

During the winter season, the Eben Ice Caves serve as a unique and intriguing attraction for outdoor explorers. The name can be deceiving in that the Eben Ice Caves aren’t technically caves at all but rather curtains of ice.

These white- and blue-stained ice veils form from water seeping through the cliff’s crevasses and freezing mid-flow, creating a cave-like structure that hikers can tour.

Keep in mind that the ice caves aren’t an attraction located a few steps from your car. A short 45-minute hike is required to reach the caves. Be prepared for somewhat muddy or slippery conditions in some areas.

Eben Ice Caves Trail



Length: 2.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Best time to visit: January - February

Hiawatha National Forest offers hikes year-round, with the Eben Ice Caves being a popular course during the winter months. Be sure to visit when the ice formations are sturdy and stable enough to explore. For the safety of everyone planning on visiting the Eben Ice Caves, it is encouraged to check the weather and ice conditions prior to walking the trail.

Dog-Friendly Trails

We welcome you and your canine companion to experience the best of Hiawatha National Forest. As a pet friendly campground, Indian Lake RV Resort takes pride in being centrally located among several of the forest’s dog-friendly trails. Hiawatha National Forest invites pups to accompany their owners along the following hikes: 

• 
  Grand Island Loop
• Bruno’s Run
• Eben Ice Caves
• Foley Creek Trail
• Mission Hill
• Gros Cap Loop
• Rock River Falls
  

North Country National Scenic Trail

A portion of the 4,600-mile long North Country National Scenic Trail crosses the Upper Peninsula in Northern Michigan.

This part of the trail covers the eastern area of Hiawatha National Forest for roughly 83 miles.

Hikers who are interested in walking along North Country Trail can view the map of the route in preparation for their journey.

Stay at Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground

Exploring the Hiawatha National Forest's top trails is a must for any nature enthusiast staying at Indian Lake RV Resort and Campground.

Our role in planning your Michigan retreat is important to us, and we hope our resort offers you the opportunity to see the best of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

We anxiously await your arrival and encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns you have about your stay.