Michiganders (and former Michiganders) know that one of the best parts about living here is that we truly get four seasons. Even if you aren’t a fan of the cooler temperatures, it’s hard to deny the beauty when the leaves turn from green to varying shades of orange and red in September and October. What’s even better? There are many scenic spots across West Michigan to take in the colors. Whether you choose to walk, hike, or drive, there’s a destination for you on the list we’ve put together of the best places to see fall colors in West Michigan.

 

  • Millennium Park, Grand Rapids: one of the nation’s largest urban parks and just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, Millennium Park features 18 miles of trails. Many trails follow the shoreline of small lakes within the park or the Grand River.
    • Bonus! This October, Jack O’ Lantern World is coming to Millennium Park where thousands of carved pumpkins will be on display throughout the park!
  • Muskegon Lakeshore Trail: The Muskegon Lakeshore Trail consists of 12 miles of biking and hiking trails throughout the Muskegon area. The trail network includes eight scenic overlooks, perfect for taking in lake views and fall foliage.
  • Grand Ravines County Park, Allendale: As a GVSU student, the Ravines is one of my favorite spots to see fall colors! Perhaps the most scenic spot in the park is the 275’ long, 70’ high wooden suspension bridge that spans across one of the park’s ravines.
  • Ludington State Park: 5,300 acres of dunes, beaches, marshes, and forests make up Ludington State Park. Hike through trees of red and orange to reach Big Sable Point Lighthouse, where you can take in views of the sparkly turquoise water!
  • Mt. Baldhead, Saugatuck: Climb the 302 steps up this extra-large dune, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Downtown Saugatuck, the Kalamazoo River, and beyond!
  • Fredrick Meijer Gardens: Fall foliage goes beyond just the leaves on the trees at Fredrick Meijer Gardens! As you wander the trails of the sculpture park, you’ll find beautiful and expansive chrysanthemum displays for the Chrysanthemums & More exhibition, happening through October 30th.
  • Oval Beach, Saugatuck: climb up the dunes to get a panoramic birds-eye view or stay close to the water to see the metallic blues of the waves.
  • Reed City & Reed City Covered Bridge: Reed City is known as the “crossroads community” because it is home to the intersection of two rail trails: the Pere Marquette Trail and the White Pine Trail. Walk or bike through a tunnel of orange and red on the trails, and don’t miss the covered bridge!
  • Blue Star Highway: prefer to do your sightseeing by car? The Blue Star Highway stretches from South Haven to Holland along Lake Michigan and offers some beautiful views of the Lakeshore and Michigan forests.
  • Lookout Park, Grand Rapids: To see fall colors dot the cityscape of Grand Rapids, visit Lookout Park. Get two views in one if you go at sunset!

If you’re a West Michigan native who’s since moved outside the state and reading this has made you nostalgic for Michigan Autumns, check out ReThink West Michigan! ReThink is a casual, professional networking event that takes place leading into the Thanksgiving holiday. You’ll have the chance to connect directly with local companies that have available job opportunities. There will be both in-person and virtual events this year, so you can attend whether you’ll be in West Michigan or elsewhere.

Wondering when will be the best time to take a hike or go on a color tour? This Fall Color Map can help you see when the colors will be at their peak in your area. For Southwest Michigan, peak color is expected to be October 10-October 29 (aka right now!).