Family-Friendly Fall Hikes Near Traverse City

Fall is a great time to explore Northern Michigan with kids—whether you want an easy stroller walk or a longer family-friendly hike.

Here are a few places to put on your list this fall.

These stroller-friendly trails are great for getting outside with little ones and enjoying the fall colors without a long or difficult hike.

Timbers has a 0.5-mile universally accessible trail through a mix of forest, fields, and wetlands, with 4.5 miles of marked and unmarked trails throughout the recreation area. It’s quiet and peaceful, and the shorter accessible trail is just long enough to get outside, reset, and enjoy a little time in nature with the kids.
Bonus: It’s right down the road from Moomer’s Ice Cream. If you’re looking for a fun fall afternoon, pair a hike at Timbers with a Moomer’s Fall wagon rides.
A short, stroller-friendly trail accessible from the Leelanau Trail that leads to a fishing pier on Cedar Lake. My kids love exploring the cedar forest near the fishing pier.
For a longer walk, park at the Leelanau Trail Cherry Bend Trailhead and walk to DeYoung Natural Area—it’s about a 30-minute walk. You can also pair a visit with Elmwood Township Park or Farm Club nearby.
Pair it with a stop at Farm Club or Elmwood Township Park Playground for the perfect fall morning

Looking for something a little more adventurous? Add one of these family-friendly hikes to your fall list:

4 Stroller Friendly Trails near Traverse City