The Little Manistee River Trail in Manistee National Forest follows one of Michigan's most celebrated trout streams through lowland hardwood forest, offering a quiet riverside walk in a landscape shaped by generations of river-bottom ecology. The Little Manistee is a designated National Wild and Scenic River, which has protected the forest corridor along its banks.
The trail is flat by Midwest standards, gaining only 300 feet over six miles, and the river provides a constant soundtrack through most of the route. This is a trail for hikers who enjoy water, birds, and the particular peace of a lowland river landscape.
The Route
The trail begins at Gleason's Landing and follows the river south through old hardwood forest. The river is visible and accessible at multiple points along the route, with sandy banks and river bends creating varied scenery. The trail stays on the river's eastern bank for the first three miles before reaching the turnaround point at a designated campsite clearing.
Return on the same route. The upstream and downstream perspectives offer noticeably different views, particularly when the light is changing through the morning.
What to Expect
Spring is particularly good on this trail. May brings warbler migration to the riverside forest, and the river runs full with spring flow. The riverside canopy creates excellent nesting habitat, and the density of bird life in mid-May can be remarkable.
The trail surface can be muddy in wet periods. The forest floor is damp by nature given the proximity to the river. Waterproof footwear is a comfort upgrade in spring and after rain.
Nearby
Irons, Michigan, is the nearest small community. Big Rapids and Reed City are roughly 30 miles southeast with more extensive services. The Little Manistee River above this section is popular with canoeists and kayakers in spring and summer, and many visitors combine a paddle with a trail walk for a full day on the river.
Leave No Trace
This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.