Hanson Hills Recreation Area
The Hanson Hills Recreation Area in Grayling, Michigan is approximately 11 miles away from Higgins Lake. The area has more than 18 miles of mountain biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Visitors to the area are encouraged to donate $2 toward trail maintenance and development. The recreation area also hosts mountain bike endurance races for individuals and two-person or four-person teams. Although the trails are closed in the wintertime due to snow, you can still enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing at Hanson Hills.
Hanson Hills Recreation Area
7601 Old Lake Road
PO Box 361
Grayling, MI 49738
(989) 348-9266
Hartwick Pines State Park
Hartwick Pines State Park is approximately 19 miles north of Higgins Lake. This 9,672-acre park features a 49-acre, old growth pine forest and three mountain bike trails. The trails measure 3-, 5- and 7.5-miles long and are open for hiking or cross-country skiing during the winter months. Other amenities of the park include a logging museum, which is open from May 1 to October 31 each year, two inland lakes, picnic areas and a playground. Entrance to the park is free as of December 2009.
Hartwick Pines State Park
4216 Ranger Road
Grayling, MI 49738
(989) 348-7068
Wakeley Lake Foot Travel Area
Wakeley Lake is a 25-minute drive away from Higgins Lake. This lake is surrounded by a 2,000-acre site that does not allow motorized vehicles. Approximately 10 miles of trails are available for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. Visitors need to park 1/4 mile away from the lake, and then hike or bike in to the area. Four rustic campgrounds are available near the lake, along with one vault toilet. Water is available at the campground via a hand pump. Visitors need to obtain a parking pass, which you can acquire at the parking area from a park ranger.
Wakeley Lake Foot Travel Area
1755 South Mitchell Street
Cadillac, MI 49061
(989) 826-3252
