Kettles Trail

Hiking & Trails · Traverse City, MI

Kettles Trail winds through the fascinating geological landscape left behind by ancient glaciers in Grand Traverse County. The trail gets its name from the kettle lakes - small, deep ponds formed when massive ice chunks melted thousands of years ago. These circular water gems dot the forest floor, creating an almost magical hiking experience. The well-maintained path accommodates families with children, making it an accessible adventure for all ages. Native wildflowers bloom along the route in spring and summer, while fall brings spectacular color to the surrounding hardwood forest.