Manistee River Trail

The Manistee River Trail is the weekend backpacking trip of this part of Michigan: a loop of roughly 20 miles that follows the Manistee River up one bank on the river trail and back down the other on the North Country Trail.

The two halves meet at “Little Mac,” a 246-foot pedestrian suspension bridge just downstream of Hodenpyl Dam. It reopened to foot traffic in April 2025 after work on its hardware, decking and railing. Along the way you get river overlooks, the dam and its pond, and a waterfall.

Start from Seaton Creek Campground, the main trailhead, where a day-use fee is charged, or from Red Bridge, which allows overnight parking. Most people take two days, and some split it into three. Carry water for the North Country Trail side, where there is none near Red Hill. The trail has steep stretches, so bring poles and good shoes. Campsites fill on weekends and holidays; go midweek if you can. Spring brings running creeks and muddy footing, and fall brings the color.

The North Country Trail side is looked after by the North Country Trail Association’s Spirit of the Woods Chapter with the Forest Service. Check the Huron-Manistee National Forests for alerts, rules and fees before you go.