Hartwick Pines State Park, located just outside Grayling, MI, is one of the largest state parks in the Lower Peninsula. Covering approximately 9,335 acres, it serves as a reminder of Michigan’s importance in the history of the pine lumber industry. The park features some of the last remaining old-growth pine forests in the state, making it a spot to witness natural heritage. With opportunities for hiking, kayaking, biking, skiing, camping, education, fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and more, this state park is a must-visit.
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Keep reading to discover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Hartwick Pines State Park!
Discover Hartwick Pines State Park
Visitors Center
Inside the 1,500-square-foot exhibit hall, visitors can explore interactive displays and meet a talking “living tree” that shares the story of Michigan’s forests—past, present, and future.
The self-guided experience spans from the Ice Age to today’s sustainable forests, where growth outpaces harvest. Six themed sections highlight different aspects of Michigan’s woodland history and ecology.
The center also features a 105-seat auditorium and a classroom for up to 35 participants.
Operated by the Friends of Hartwick Pines, the bookstore offers a wide selection of resources—field guides, books on Michigan’s natural history and logging era, children’s stories, vintage-style toys, bird feeders, apparel, snacks, and more—to enrich the visitor experience.
(Please note the Visitors Center is undergoing renovations from June 2025 through the end of the year.)
Loggin Musuem
The Hartwick Pines Logging Museum brings the state’s 19th-century lumbering history to life—a time that reshaped Michigan’s land, economy, and communities.
During the peak years from 1870 to 1900, Michigan led the nation in lumber production. The museum, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, features recreated 1890s logging camp buildings, including a bunkhouse, cook’s cabin, mess hall, and blacksmith shop. Visitors can also view historic logging tools, road-building equipment, and a 1914 steam-powered sawmill.
In summer, costumed interpreters offer hands-on demonstrations, inviting guests to enter a lumberjack’s world through activities like camp cooking, laundry, and traditional games.
The Logging Museum is open daily May 1-September 1, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The museum is open weekends from September 2-October 31, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM.
Accessibility
Activities & Amenities to Enjoy Within the Park
Whether you bike the 10-mile Grayling Bicycle Turnpike into downtown Grayling or rent a kayak and paddle around Glory Lake, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Hartwick Pines State Park. Here is a list of some of the activities and amenities to be enjoyed:
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- Cycling
- Cross-country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Snowmobiling
- Fishing
- Picnicing
- History & Nature Programs
- Hunting
- Playgrounds
- Camping
- Cabins
- Lakes
- Kayaking (including kayak rentals)
Trails
There are fabulous trails for recreation during every season. Be sure to check current trail conditions and consult the park map for specific trail use.
- Hartwick Pines-Weiry Legs, 7.5 mi
- Hartwick Pines-Deer Run Trail, 5 mi
- Hartwick Pines-Metz Grade Trail, 2.5 mi
- Hartwick Pines-Hartwick Pines Trail, 21 mi
- Hartwick Pines-Bright and Glory Lakes Trail, .25 mi
- Hartwick Pines-Au Sable River Trail, 3.9 mi (partially closed as of June 2025)
- Hartwick Pines-Old Growth Forest Trail, 1.25 mi
Here are a few resources that may be useful while exploring the park:
Lakes and More
There are four lakes located within the boundaries of the park. Glory Lake and Bright Lake are both accessible to the public and have road access. Hartwick Lake and Karen Lake are more remote and do not have direct access. Fishing and paddle sports can be enjoyed at Glory and Bright Lake. There is even a kayak rental facility.
When it comes to regulated activities, like hunting, snowmobiling, or metal detecting, please consult a park official for details. This is for your safety, the safety of others, and the park’s integrity.
Book a Cabin with Freshwater Rentals
Our collection of vacation rental cabins and homes spans throughout all of Michigan. However, we have a carefully selected inventory of rentals in Northern, MI, and the greater Grayling area. Whether you are looking for a lakeside retreat, a rustic wooded oasis, or a home in town, we have a rental that is ideal for your travel needs. Browse our selection and find one that your family will love.
Elysian River Escape (pictured) is a two-bedroom riverfront home that sleeps four guests. This is the perfect place for lazy days in the hammock, fly fishing on the river, or as a home base for exploring the great outdoors. Don’t miss your opportunity to visit a few of our favorite northern Michigan restaurants and breweries!
Our blog is an excellent resource for great things to do and see in the area!
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