Overview
The Au Train Lake Trail circles one of the most pleasant inland lakes in Hiawatha National Forest, completing an 8.4-mile loop through mature hardwood forest along the shores of Au Train Lake. The lake sits about 20 miles west of Munising in the western portion of the Munising Ranger District, and the campground at its southern end makes it a natural base for a quiet overnight away from the popular Pictured Rocks corridor.
Au Train Lake is fed largely by springs and drains north through the Au Train River into Lake Superior. The water is clear and relatively warm compared to Superior, making it one of the better swimming lakes in the national forest. Walleye, perch, and northern pike fishing are popular from boats and along the shoreline.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 2.5: Campground to North Shore
Starting from the campground day-use area, the trail heads clockwise around the west side of the lake through a mature maple-birch canopy. The western shore is the least scenic section: dense forest with few lake views: but the footing is good and the walking is easy. The trail opens up as it rounds the northwest corner of the lake and begins the north shore traverse.
Miles 2.5 to 5.5: North Shore and Sandy Beaches
The north shore section has the most lake access and the best views. Three separate sand beach points jut into the lake, each offering a natural rest stop with views south across the water. In summer these spots see anglers and kayakers. The forest on the north shore is slightly older, with some large yellow birch. The Au Train River outlet is near mile 4.8, where the river leaves the lake and begins its journey north through a lowland cedar corridor.
Miles 5.5 to 8.4: East Shore Return
The east shore follows a narrower, less-used track back toward the campground. This section has more root and rock than the west side and crosses one small seasonal creek. The forest transitions back to mixed hardwood as the trail climbs slightly above the lake level before descending to the campground beach and day-use area.
When to Hike
June through August are the most popular months. The campground fills on summer weekends and reservations are recommended. Weekday visits are notably quieter. Wildflowers bloom in June along the forest sections.
September and October offer the best fall color and pleasant temperatures. The campground is open through October (as of 2026), and fishing remains good into the fall. Crowds drop sharply after Labor Day.
May can be muddy, particularly on the east shore section. The lake is often still cold from ice-out in early May.
What to Bring
Water is available at the campground (seasonal). Many hikers carry at least 1.5 liters from the trailhead for the full loop. The relatively flat terrain makes this trail accessible with standard day-hiking footwear. A camp chair for the beach sections is a popular addition for those taking their time.
Trailhead Access
The Au Train Lake Campground is off Au Train Lake Road, accessible from US-2 west of Munising or M-28 to the north. The road is paved to the campground. Vault toilets are at the day-use area. No day-use fee for hikers (as of 2026). The campground itself requires a reservation and nightly fee.
Nearby
The North Country Trail Munising Segment runs through the forest east of here and is a natural next-day outing. The Rock River Canyon Trail is about 40 minutes east and offers a more dramatic sandstone canyon experience. Review Leave No Trace principles before your visit, and check current conditions at checking conditions before you go for road and campground status.