The Mitten State is known for its spectacular Great Lakes, sand dunes, and beautiful seasons. The best way to experience all four seasons is to hike in our glorious, ever-changing forests. If you love backpacking or hiking long distances, you must check out this waterfall trail in Mesick, Michigan.

Manistee River Trail is a moderately rated 19.2-mile loop that takes an average of 7.5 hours to finish.
Susan Miller/All Trails
The trail is accessible at the Marilla and Upper River Road trailheads for North Country National Scenic Trail. Or the Seaton Creek and Red Bridge access for the Manistee River Trail.
The forest path winds past scenic wetlands and footbridges that cross over two creeks. There are stretches of this hike without access to water, so be prepared with plenty of your own. The Manistee River Trail is very hilly and trekking poles are recommended.
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This trail is very popular for camping, fishing, and backpacking and can be busy during the peak summer season.
Susan Miller/All Trails
You’ll be surprised to learn that the Manistee River Trail has the largest wooden suspension bridge in the Lower Peninsula.
Sunny Ann/All Trails

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You can camp almost anywhere on this trail and a popular spot to rest for the night is near the waterfall. After a long day of walking combined with the sound of the waterfall, you’ll be fast asleep in no time!
Sunny Ann/All Trails
When you hike in the warmer weather months you’ll see a wide variety of flora and fauna including mushrooms and wildflowers.
Randy Hockey/All Trails
If you think this hike looks incredible in the summer, wait until you see it in autumn. The cooler temperatures make for a pleasant camping experience and you’ll be surrounded by vibrant fall foliage.
Waterfall Trail Mesick Michigan
Matt Phillips/All Trails
For fewer crowds and a challenging adventure, visit Manistee River Trail in the winter. The scenery changes completely when it’s covered in a blanket of white snow. No matter what time of year you backpack, you’ll enjoy every minute of visiting this epic Michigan trail.
Mark Weaver/All Trails

For a map of the area, visit the USDA Forest Service Website. Would you try out this once-in-a-lifetime hike? For more amazing trip ideas, check out These 10 Trails In Michigan That Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places.

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