Lakelands Trail State Park follows a 13-mile converted rail corridor through the rolling countryside of southeastern Michigan, connecting the villages of Pinckney and Stockbridge across Ingham, Livingston, and Washtenaw counties. The crushed-limestone path cuts through some of the most quietly beautiful terrain in the Lower Peninsula — glacial hills, small lakes, wetlands, and patches of hardwood forest that feel far removed from the metro Detroit sprawl less than an hour away.

The trail is flat and well-graded, making it accessible for hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, and cross-country skiers depending on the season. Mountain bikers and equestrians share designated sections, while the full length is open to foot traffic year-round. In winter, the ungroomed path draws snowshoers and adventurous fat-tire cyclists. Several trailheads offer parking, with the Pinckney and Stockbridge access points being the most developed.

What sets Lakelands apart is its connectivity. The trail links directly to Pinckney Recreation Area’s extensive trail network, opening up thousands of additional acres for day hikes or longer loops. Birders will find the wetland crossings particularly productive during spring and fall migration.

There are no campgrounds within the trail park itself, but Pinckney Recreation Area next door offers both rustic and modern camping options — a practical base for a multi-day visit.

Fall is the standout season here, when the hardwoods along the corridor light up and trail traffic thins after Labor Day. Spring wildflower displays along the wooded stretches run a close second.

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