There’s just something about fall that makes us want to get out and explore. Crisp mornings, cooler temperatures, and forests ablaze with color make it the perfect season to lace up your hiking boots or load up your bike and explore somewhere new.
In Oscoda, you don’t have to look far for your fall adventure. With hundreds of miles of trails winding through more than 35,000 acres of natural landscapes, Oscoda offers endless ways to experience fall. You’ll find easy walks through towering hardwoods, challenging mountain bike rides along winding singletrack, stunning scenic river overlooks and miles of paved pathways perfect for a leisurely ride.
In fact, Oscoda was designated a Pure Michigan Trail Town in 2024, recognizing the community’s outstanding access to hiking, biking, paddling, snowmobile and ORV trails. Add the AuSable River, Lake Huron shoreline and spectacular color throughout the expansive Huron National Forest, and you have all the makings for an unforgettable fall getaway.
Hike the Highbanks
For some of the region’s most spectacular scenery, head to the Highbanks Trail. This 7-mile multi-use trail follows the high bluffs above the AuSable River, offering panoramic views of the river and Cooke Dam Pond.
In autumn, the trail becomes a front-row seat to the changing forest. Take your time, watch for wildlife, and keep your camera handy for a combination of colorful hardwoods contrasting against towering pines and panoramic river views delivering a quintessential Northern Michigan fall experience.
You can also enjoy the scenery without committing to a long hike. The Lumberman’s Monument Visitors Centerprovides direct access to beautiful overlooks providing views of the landscape from high above the river. It’s the perfect spot to capture a share-worthy fall photo.
Take Your Ride to the Wildcat
For a fall adventure with a little more adrenaline, head to the Wildcat Mountain Bike Trail. This single-track trail winds through the Huron National Forest, following the contours of the AuSable River. The current 15-mile trail includes rollers, challenging climbs and rewarding views, offering plenty of opportunities to put your skills to the test.
And there’s something special about mountain biking in autumn. Cooler temperatures, colorful forests and miles of winding single-track make fall an ideal time to explore Wildcat.
Find Your Pace at Eagle Run
Not every fall adventure needs to be extreme. Eagle Run features three looped trails designed for multi-season recreation. The wide, shared-use trails are well suited for both hikers and bikers, making this a great choice for any scale adventure.
Enjoy the scenery, breathe in the crisp forest air and let the trail set your pace.
Wander the Corsair Trails
Looking for a more expansive trail adventure? Explore the Corsair Trail system, where three loops offer just over 28 miles of single-direction trails. The landscape changes as you go, with open vistas, fir stands, towering hardwoods and winding streams creating a constantly changing backdrop.
Come for a short hike or make a day of it, the choice is yours.
Pedal the Iosco Exploration Trail
Prefer your fall color with a smooth, easy ride? The Iosco Exploration Trail offers 15 miles of paved trail stretching from Pointe Road and U.S. 23 through AuSable to Oscoda along Mill Street to River Road, on to Oscoda High School and Old Orchard Park on Cooke Dam Pond.
A portion of the planned 44-mile Iosco Exploration Trail and connected to Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail, this level route is ideal for cyclists, walkers and families looking to experience the beauty of the season without the challenge of a rustic forest trail.
Your Fall Trail Adventure Awaits
The best part about exploring Oscoda in fall? We have a trail to suit every scale of exploration.
Hike a trail following a bank high above the river. Bike through winding trails of the forest. Wander beneath a canopy of color. Paddle a water trail. Or simply go on a leisurely car ride to enjoy the season unfolding around you.
With miles of trails, beautiful public lands and plenty of cozy places to stay, Oscoda makes it easy to turn a day outdoors into a full fall getaway.
So, pick your trail, pack your layers and chase a little fall color. Your Oscoda adventure awaits.
