Easy hikes and walks in South Vandenboom Recreation Area
4.9
(11)
375
hikers
40
hikes
Easy hiking trails in South Vandenboom Recreation Area traverse a landscape characterized by lush forested terrain and riverine environments, notably shaped by the Carp River. The area is an integral part of the Noquemanon Trail Network, providing access to a diverse system of paths. This region features varied geology, including ancient crystalline rocks and glacial deposits, contributing to a landscape of rolling forests and occasional steep cliffs. Hikers can experience natural features such as waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
Best easy…
Last updated: July 14, 2026
5.54km
01:38
150m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
5.26km
01:23
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
7.16km
01:54
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.03km
01:04
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.53km
00:54
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Mount Marquette Overlook offers panoramic views of the city of Marquette, Lake Superior, and Hogback Mountain. The trail circling around the mountain offers a few spotty views but nothing as great and as open as the view you get from the official overlook.
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Among Marquette County's waterfalls, this one stands out, easily accessible. Found at Morgan Creek and Carp River's confluence, it descends 20 feet (ca. 6 m). While some argue it's an unnamed cascade, others claim it as the photogenic Morgan Falls.
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You get a pretty good view of the Dead River (which appears more like a collection of lakes) from the EZ-PZ Trail in a number of spots. There are a bunch of trails crisscrossing each other in this area, but they are all pretty well-marked.
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The Mount Marquette Overlook offers panoramic views of the city of Marquette, Lake Superior, and Hogback Mountain. The trail circling around the mountain offers a few spotty views but nothing as great and as open as the view you get from the official overlook.
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Morgan Falls is a 20-foot tall waterfall along Morgan Creek near Marquette. The primary way of getting to the falls include a fair bit of easy forest road walking. The last bit of trail to the falls is below the road, down some wooden steps. This is a really cool waterfall that doesn't draw the crowds that some of the waterfalls in the area do.
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There are a handful of trails that pass through the area. A bunch of them travel along the shores of the river, and a couple even cross over the river via bridges. The Blue Heron Trail is one of those trails, and it is technically separated into an upper and lower section of trail.
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This part of the Noquemanon Trail is part of the greater Noquemanon Trail System. These are a collection of well-maintained paths that are open to a variety of trail users. Some trails are built with more mountain bike specificity, while others are smooth and wide open.
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You get a pretty good view of the Dead River (which appears more like a collection of lakes) from the EZ-PZ Trail in a number of spots. There are a bunch of trails crisscrossing each other in this area, but they are all pretty well-marked.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in South Vandenboom Recreation Area?
The South Vandenboom Recreation Area offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with 25 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails are part of the extensive Noquemanon Trail Network.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in South Vandenboom Recreation Area?
Easy hikes in the area feature lush forested terrain and picturesque riverine landscapes, particularly along the Carp River. You'll also encounter varied geology, including ancient crystalline rocks and glacial deposits, creating a diverse environment of rolling forests and occasional steep cliffs.
Are there any easy trails that lead to waterfalls?
Yes, you can experience waterfalls on an easy hike. The Morgan Falls loop from Art Neiger South Trails Pavilion is an easy 3.3-mile path that leads through forested surroundings directly to Morgan Falls, a captivating 20-foot waterfall.
Can I find scenic viewpoints on easy hiking trails?
Absolutely. Some easy trails offer scenic overlooks. For example, the Gorge-ous, Doctors and Grom Loop Trail includes an overlook with river views. The wider region also features viewpoints like Mount Marquette Overlook, offering panoramic vistas of Marquette and Lake Superior.
Are the easy hiking trails in South Vandenboom Recreation Area suitable for families?
Yes, the area is known for its accessibility and diverse trail network, making it suitable for various fitness levels, including families. Many easy paths are well-maintained and offer a pleasant outdoor experience for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails?
The Noquemanon Trail Network, which includes the South Vandenboom Recreation Area, generally welcomes dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure a positive experience for all trail users and wildlife.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes?
Many of the easy trails in South Vandenboom Recreation Area are designed as loops. Examples include the Gorge-ous, Doctors and Grom Loop Trail, the Morgan Falls loop from Art Neiger South Trails Pavilion, and the Blue Heron Trail loop from Northern Michigan University, all offering convenient circular paths.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in South Vandenboom Recreation Area?
The easy trails in South Vandenboom Recreation Area are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 10 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, scenic beauty, and the accessibility of the routes.
Is parking available at the trailheads for easy hikes?
Yes, the South Vandenboom Recreation Area and the broader Noquemanon Trail Network have various trailheads, many of which offer parking facilities. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local trail network websites.
What is the best time of year to go easy hiking in South Vandenboom Recreation Area?
The area offers enjoyable hiking experiences across multiple seasons. Spring and fall provide vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures. Summer is popular for its lush greenery, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing on the multi-use trails, though conditions will vary.
Are there any less crowded easy hiking options?
While popular, the extensive network of trails means you can often find quieter sections. Exploring routes during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you enjoy a more serene experience. The Noquemanon and EZ-PZ Trail Loop is a shorter, easy option that might offer a more tranquil walk.
How long do easy hikes typically take in this area?
Easy hikes in South Vandenboom Recreation Area vary in length and duration. For instance, the Gorge-ous, Doctors and Grom Loop Trail is about 3.4 miles and takes roughly 1 hour 38 minutes, while the Blue Heron Trail loop from Trowbridge Park is around 2.5 miles and can be completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
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