Community Hikes at May Woods

Explore Nature. Build Community. Every Season.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for an enjoyable afternoon outdoors, the Mackinaw Area Historical Society's Community Hikes are a wonderful way to experience the beauty of May Woods, meet fellow nature enthusiasts, and discover one of Mackinaw City's hidden treasures.

Our guided hikes are designed for all ages and experience levels. Each event offers a relaxed pace, opportunities to learn about the area's forests and wildlife, and plenty of time to enjoy the peaceful trails with family, friends, and neighbors.

Best of all, every community hike is completely FREE.

Meet at the Nature Center in Heritage Village before each hike.

Why Join a Community Hike?

There's something special about exploring the woods together.

Our guided hikes help participants:

  • Experience the changing beauty of May Woods throughout the seasons

  • Learn about local trees, plants, birds, and wildlife

  • Meet neighbors and make new friends

  • Enjoy healthy outdoor recreation

  • Discover trails you may not have explored before

  • Create lasting memories

Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, every hike offers a new experience.

Upcoming Community Hikes

Celebrate the Transition to Fall

Saturday, September 19
10:00 AM

As summer gives way to brilliant autumn colors, join us for one of the most beautiful times of the year at May Woods.

Enjoy crisp air, colorful leaves, and peaceful forest trails while spending time with fellow community members. This relaxed guided hike is perfect for families, couples, individuals, and nature lovers of every age.

Guide: Ted Wright

Location:
Meet at the Nature Center in Heritage Village.

Cost: FREE

Learn more

Pre-National Hike Day Celebration

Saturday, November 14
TBD

National Hike Day falls during the work week this year, so we're celebrating early!

Whether you regularly explore May Woods or you've always wanted to give hiking a try, this welcoming community hike is for you.

No experience is necessary, just bring comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and come enjoy the trails.

Guide: To Be Announced

Location:
Meet at the Nature Center in Heritage Village.

Cost: FREE

What Should I Bring?

To make the most of your hike, we recommend bringing:

  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

  • Water bottle

  • Camera or smartphone

  • Binoculars for birdwatching (optional)

  • A sense of adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes! All MAHS Community Hikes are free and open to the public.

  • Absolutely! Community Hikes are family-friendly and a great way to introduce children to nature.

  • Most hikes follow an easy-to-moderate pace on established May Woods trails. Guides will make stops for observation and discussion.

  • Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome unless otherwise noted for a specific event. Please clean up after your pet and be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.

  • Events may be modified or canceled due to severe weather. Please check our website or social media before heading out if weather conditions are questionable.

Share Your Passion for the Outdoors

Do you love hiking, birdwatching, wildflowers, photography, mushrooms, history, or simply spending time in nature?

We're always looking for volunteers to help lead future Community Hikes.

You don't have to be a professional naturalist, just someone who enjoys sharing your knowledge and enthusiasm with others. Whether you'd like to guide a seasonal hike, lead a birdwatching walk, introduce families to forest ecology, or share the history of May Woods, we'd love to hear from you.

Interested in hosting or leading a future hike? Contact the Mackinaw Area Historical Society to learn more about becoming a volunteer hike leader.

Guide a Hike