The Small State Park Where You Can View The Best Fall Foliage In Michigan
By Megan Todaro|Published September 18, 2023
×
Megan Todaro
Author
Megan Todaro was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and still calls The Sunshine State home today. While saving lives and putting out fires during the day, Megan is also passionate about writing and travel, especially when it comes to sharing her knowledge of her home state. A few of Megan's favorites include: favorite Florida vacation destination - New Smyrna Beach. Favorite Florida restaurant - Eastside Pizza in Miami. Favorite Florida hidden gem - Shibuya Sushi Art. Favorite Florida OnlyInYourState article: Take A Terrifying Florida Road Trip That Will Surely Haunt Your Dreams.
Ahh, the fall season. Is it just me, or is there something completely magical about fall that makes road-tripping and travel even better than any other season? What could easily be your average point-a-to-point-b road trip can become elevated in autumn simply due to the fall foliage. You probably already have your go-to spots for viewing fall foliage in Michigan, but what if I threw another option into the mix – one that’ll have you deep in the heart of old-growth pines? Hartwick Pines State Park in Michigan is not just a stunning slice of nature for any season, but it becomes a prime spot during fall to see all the beauty of the leaves change up close. It doesn’t get much sweeter than that…
Nestled in the heart of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Hartwick Pines State Park is a haven for outdoor lovers. It's renowned for its stunning old-growth pine forest, which is a rare sight in the state. These majestic trees, some of which are over 300 years old, create a magical atmosphere that's perfect for hiking and exploring.
The park offers a network of well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hiker, there's a path for you. One of the highlights is the "Old Growth Trail," where you can stroll among towering pines, immersing yourself in a living history lesson.
As the fall season's vibrant colors take center stage, the park undergoes a breathtaking transformation. Towering pine trees intermingle with the changing leaves of hardwoods like maple, oak, and birch, creating a tapestry of reds, yellows, and oranges.
Fall at Hartwick Pines is also a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts. As the park prepares for winter, animals like deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species can be spotted going about their day-to-day.
And don’t forget to bring your camera! You’ll find endless inspiration in this picturesque landscape, where the contrast between evergreen pines and kaleidoscopic foliage intertwine.
