Guided 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 Guided 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 Guided Hikes
Take Your Buddy on a Hike Day
Saturday, October 24
10:00 AM
Explore. Discover. Connect.
Join us for Take a Friend on Hike Day. Whether you often enjoy the trails or haven’t had the courage to head out on your own…all are welcome! It's a perfect outing for families, friends, and nature lovers of all ages.
No experience is necessary, just bring comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, and come enjoy the trails.
Guide: TBD
Location:
Meet at the Nature Center in Heritage Village.
Cost: FREE
Pre-National Hike Day Celebration
Saturday, November 14
10:00 AM
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
Holiday Hike
Saturday, Dec 19
10:00 AM
Grab your hiking boots, gloves and maybe even a Santa Hat…it’s time for the May Woods Holiday Hike!
Delight in nature’s finest winter show. Whether you regularly explore May Woods or you've always wanted to give hiking a try, please join us.
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
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Yes! All MAHS Community Hikes are free and open to the public.
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Absolutely! Community Hikes are family-friendly and a great way to introduce children to nature.
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Most hikes follow an easy-to-moderate pace on established May Woods trails. Guides will make stops for observation and discussion.
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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.
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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.