Lovely Lake Views while Hiking Marl Lake Trail at South Higgins Lake State Park, Michigan
Experience a Kaleidoscope of Colors while Hiking Marl Lake Trail this Fall
An exciting hike awaits at South Higgins Lake State Park. You’re bound to love this hike with water views of Marl Lake around each bend. Bring along your camera to capture the kaleidoscope of colors mirrored in the lake and along the trails in autumn. Listen and watch for various species of birds, including eagles and loons that are known to make their homes by the lake.
Colorful Leaves in the Fall at Marl Lake Trail
It’s a relatively easy hike so it’s perfect for families and children. Located within the state park, Marl Lake Trail is approximately 5 miles from Roscommon and nearby Houghton Lake, Michigan. It’s an ideal stop for a fun Michigan day trip while visiting Higgins Lake, and not to far off 1-75.
Hiking is just one of he many activities in the area; we spent three days hiking, ORVing, dining, fishing, shopping, geocaching and visiting museums. Read about our trip here, including a 3 day itinerary.
An ideal place to visit with rich history, Marl Lake Trail features lake views and abundant wildlife, plus the CCC museum on the northern part of Higgins Lake! Spend an hour or an entire afternoon exploring the 5.5 mile trail system, beach and playground. Higgins Lake State Parks see a lot of foot traffic in the summer months, but visit in the fall and you’ll enjoy quiet trails and tranquility.
From start to finish, our day consisted of savoring family time together in nature. Slowing down, feeling the crunch of leaves underfoot and enjoying the beauty of the fall season was our goal while we made memories together. On this particular day, our family of six selected the Green loop, since it was the shortest and an ideal distance for young children.
The Marl Lake Trail At a Glance
Clear Signage at Marl Lake Trail
Distance 5.5 total miles
Difficulty Level Rated easy
Dogs are allowed, although they must be on a leash.
Children Great hike for children, preferably the 2 mile Green Trail
Entrance Fee: 13.00, Michigan Recreation Passport is required for admission. This allows access to hiking trails and beach, which makes it a budget-friendly family day trip.
Parking/ Trailhead Access can be gained near the parking lot for the boat launch at South Higgins Lake State Park. Signs are posed for trail head.
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What To Wear
TIP Wear footwear with tread to help navigate over uneven roots and terrain. In the fall layers are crucial since the wind of the lake can get chilly. Be prepared with good hiking clothing and gear, here are our favorite recommendations.
What To Expect
Marl Lake Trail has three main loops that are differentiated by color. The well marked trail has clear signage and trail markers so you never get lost.
Higgins Lake in the fall is like stepping into a painting, especially as the trees start showing off their ruby reds, golden yellows and oranges.
Your eyes will be delighted at the autumn hues of vibrant oranges, yellows and deep fiery reds reflected off the cool waters. Tucked between Marl Lake and South Higgins Lake, the Marl Lake Trail offers lake views along towering wooded paths. The trail starts out crossing a little footbridge then hugs Marl Lake.
Footbridge at the start of Marl Lake Trail
Divided into three different trails, choosing the perfect length loop is easy. Marl Lake trail contains the Green, Red and Blue Trails. The trails have good signage and maps. Additionally, blue trail markers on the trees made navigating easy. My children even made a game of tapping each blue trail marker as we hiked.
Blue Trail Markers at Marl Lake Trail
Which Trail Route to Choose at Marl Lake
Green Trail (2.0 miles) The shortest hike and an ideal distance for young children. Only 2 miles long and rated easy, the path hugs Marl Lake for the first part, providing scenic lake views around each bend. Then it branches off and leads back around and through the shady woods where it ends along the roadway to the entrance of Marl Lake. The rich colors of fall make it truly a lovely hike among the towering pines, crimson oaks and sugar maples.
Red Trail (3.5 miles) This loop leads hikers through the woods. Eventually, you’ll come upon a bench to rest next to the lake, before the return trip back. So make sure to sit a bit in nature after you’ve completed this hike.
Bench at Marl Lake Trail
Blue Trail ( 5.5 miles) Covering the entire loop, the blue trail leads to the Cut River and meanders through some wetland areas.
Other Recommended Hikes and Attractions in the Area
We've mapped out the best spots to visit at both South and North Higgins Lake State Parks, which contain scenic trails, playgrounds and museums that showcase the beauty of the area. Here are some additional activities we recommend in the area Roscommon, Higgins Lake and Houghton Lake Areas.
Lost Trail Lake Pathway An easy to moderate trail with a distance of 3.2 miles near Prudenville.
Higgins Lake Nursery and CCC Museum Learn about the history of the area and the major impact the Conservation Civilian Corp had on planting trees in the state forest, which we now can enjoy today. Walk the property, view the historical buildings and trail while reading historical plaques and information.
Nearby Restaurants
Buccillis Pizza - Local favorites all agree Buccillis Pizza serves up the best Italian goodness. Try one of their specialty pizzas- you won’t be disappointed.
TJ Loopie’s Sips & Sweets- satisfy your sweet tooth with desserts or a specialty coffee drink.
Kiss Me Coffee We love supporting local businesses, this specialty coffee shop has yummy drinks that coincide with the seasons.
Where to Stay in the Area
This spectacular area offers a variety of accommodations from cozy cottages, campgrounds or family-friendly hotels with a pool, make sure to check out the best deals at Bookings.com for you next family vacation. If you’re staying for an extended time, another great option is to rent a house in the area through VRBO. In the fall we stayed at the Mallard Duck Retreat, which was a cozy cottage that was perfect for our family of six.
Closing Thoughts
South Higgins Lake State Park in the Fall
Hopefully this hike has inspired you to explore the trails at South Higgins Lake State Park and experience the beauty of one of the most popular Michigan State Parks. Don’t forget to Pin and Save this post and follow Discovering Anew on Facebook for more family travel, vacation guides, and camping recommendations. If this content was helpful, please share it with a friend. Happy Trails!
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