Lansing River Trail
A 16+ mile paved trail along the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, perfect for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors & fewer crowds
Lansing River Trail
Best Time
Vibrant colors & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16+ mile paved trail along the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, perfect for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing.
"Love the Lansing trail and Red Cedar, Lansing River pathway. Easily spend an entire day in the area."
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Essential for navigating the 16+ miles & finding access points.
🚴♀️ Bike or Kayak
Rentals available for a fun way to explore the river.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Brenke Fish Ladder
Burchard Park
A prime spot for wildlife viewing and photography, especially for birds and fish.
Potter Park Zoo
Near the trail
A family-friendly stop offering a fun break with diverse animal exhibits.
Old Town Lansing
Along the trail
Explore charming shops and cafes, perfect for a post-trail refreshment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Trail Access & Length
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Essential for navigating the 16+ miles & finding access points. +1
🚴♀️ Bike or Kayak
Rentals available for a fun way to explore the river.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Perfect for walking, running, or biking the scenic paths.
⚠️ Watch for Scooters
They can be fast and quiet; stay to the right.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Essential for navigating the 16+ miles & finding access points. +1
🚴♀️ Bike or Kayak
Rentals available for a fun way to explore the river.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Perfect for walking, running, or biking the scenic paths.
⚠️ Watch for Scooters
They can be fast and quiet; stay to the right.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited facilities, especially on longer stretches.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Lansing River Trail for its extensive length, scenic beauty, and accessibility, making it ideal for biking, walking, and enjoying nature. Many appreciate the connection to parks and urban areas like Old Town. Some minor concerns include occasional wet spots after rain and the need for more restroom facilities.
"I have taken my bike up to Lansing many times. Reminds me of the trails here in Essex County Ontario. Love the Lansing trail and Red Cedar, Lansing River pathway. Stop in town for a coffee, visit the market and head for Potter Park and Dietrich Park. Fun to rent kayaks on your visit too!! Easily spend an entire day in the area. If you are a Michigan fan look out because this is Spartan Town! Don't forget the HOP Cat for a nice pint of IPA English Ale."
Emporium By The Shore
"I have so many fond memories riding my bike along this trail. I lived in an apartment complex along Jolly Road and I would often bike the trail all the way to class at MSU. It was an easy path and so peaceful. I would also take it all the way to downtown Lansing to visit my good friends. I love that little things like this exist."
Marcos Bolaños (The Flavor Analyst)
"Visiting a friend in Lansing and I take walks everyday. The Lansing River trail makes for great walks both during the day and in the evening. I've walked from Old Town to the zoo and all of it is enjoyable with lots to see and never too busy. Keep an eye out for the scooters. Some of the scooters go fast and don't announce themselves. Just keep to the right so bikes and scooters can pass you. I wish the trail had a couple of porta potties along the way for when you take long walks or runs. The evening is even more beautiful to walk on the trail."
Bill Lozano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lansing River Trail has numerous access points throughout Lansing and East Lansing. Popular entry points include Burchard Park, Fenner Nature Center, and areas near Michigan State University. +1
Yes, several parking lots are available at various access points along the trail, such as Burchard Park and near the zoo.
While direct public transport to every trailhead might be limited, the trail passes through areas accessible by local bus routes, especially near downtown and MSU. Check local transit schedules for routes near your desired access point.
You can find various Lansing River Trail maps online, often with mileage markers, by searching for 'Lansing River Trail map' or 'Lansing River Trail map PDF'.
Yes, the Lansing River Trail connects to other paths and has extensions, including one that passes through Fenner Nature Center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Lansing River Trail is a public park and is free to access for walking, biking, and other recreational activities.
The trail is generally accessible from dawn to dusk, though specific park hours at access points may vary. It's recommended to check local park information for any specific restrictions.
No advance booking is required for general use of the Lansing River Trail. It's open to the public for spontaneous visits.
For general recreational use like walking or biking, no permits are needed. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or specific activities, it's best to check with the local parks department.
Yes, pets are generally allowed on the Lansing River Trail, but they must be kept on a leash.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail is generally well-maintained, with downed trees and litter promptly cleared. Some sections can be wet and muddy in early spring or after storms.
You can spot various birds, butterflies, geese, and even deer along the trail. The Brenke Fish Ladder is a great spot for viewing.
Restroom facilities are limited, and some visitors wish there were more porta-potties available, especially on longer stretches.
While many find it safe, some users recommend caution, especially when alone or at night. Staying aware of your surroundings and sticking to well-trafficked areas is advised.
Highlights include Burchard Park, Potter Park Zoo, Old Town Lansing, and the Brenke Fish Ladder.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the trail passes through or near areas with dining options, including Old Town Lansing and downtown, where you can find cafes and restaurants.
Picnicking is a popular activity, especially at parks like Burchard Park. Remember to pack out all your trash.
HopCat is a popular spot for a pint and food, and Old Town Lansing offers various cafes and eateries.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors directly on the trail itself, but you'll find options at nearby parks and in adjacent urban areas.
Yes, especially when accessing the trail from Old Town or downtown Lansing, you'll find several coffee shops.
📸 📸 Photography
The Brenke Fish Ladder at Burchard Park offers great photo opportunities, especially for wildlife. The trail itself provides scenic views of the river and surrounding nature.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer beautiful lighting for photography, with fewer crowds. Fall colors also make for stunning shots.
Absolutely! The trail is known for its birdlife, butterflies, and other small animals, making it a great place for nature photography.
The Lansing River Trail features art installations, encouraging visitors to experience and photograph them.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can be great for scenic river views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for wildlife like birds and butterflies, which can add an element of discovery to your family outing.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Runners
It's ideal for long-distance rides and training runs, with plenty of scenic views to keep you motivated. Be aware of other trail users, especially cyclists and scooters, and adhere to trail etiquette by staying to the right.
🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts
These pieces encourage interaction and provide excellent photo opportunities. The trail also connects you to vibrant urban areas like Old Town Lansing, known for its charming shops, galleries, and historic architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Lansing River Trail
When planning your route, utilizing a Lansing River Trail map is highly recommended. These maps often detail mileage, access points, and nearby attractions, helping you create a personalized itinerary.
For those looking to extend their exploration, the trail connects to other pathways and has undergone extensions, ensuring a dynamic and evolving recreational experience.
Wildlife and Nature Encounters
A particularly noteworthy spot for wildlife viewing is the Brenke Fish Ladder at Burchard Park. This area provides excellent opportunities to observe fish, especially during spawning seasons, and is a favorite for photographers.
Visitors have also reported seeing deer along the trail, adding an element of surprise to their excursions. Beyond the fauna, the trail showcases the natural beauty of the region, with changing foliage throughout the seasons. Fall, in particular, transforms the trail into a vibrant spectacle of colors, making it a prime destination for enjoying autumn scenery.
Activities and Recreation
Walking and running are also common, offering a great way to stay active while immersing yourself in nature. For a different perspective, consider kayaking on the Grand River. Rentals are available, allowing you to experience the trail's beauty from the water.
Beyond physical activities, the trail serves as a place for quality time and relaxation. Many visitors use it for peaceful walks, connecting with nature, and enjoying moments of quiet reflection.
It's also a popular spot for picnics, especially in the park areas adjacent to the trail. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit