Landmark
Deadman's Hill (trailhead/overlook)
MI 0 · ≈1,291 ft
A high overlook near US-131 above the Jordan River Valley, the loop's most common starting point.
An 18-mile loop above Michigan's first designated Wild and Scenic River, linking the Deadman's Hill overlook with the river-bottom Pinney Bridge campground. One of the Lower Peninsula's most popular weekend backpacks.
“Traverse Jordan River Valley (MI) on the Jordan River Pathway.”
Plan your Jordan River Valley (MI) trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Jordan River Pathway
Jordan River Pathway is issued by the agency rather than through a booking calendar. Their page has the current process and any dates.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
Jordan River Pathway permit season
- route distance, loop
- 18mi
Jordan River Pathway elevation profile
Deadman's Hill (trailhead/overlook) to Pinney Bridge State Forest CampgroundLandmark
Deadman's Hill (trailhead/overlook)
A high overlook near US-131 above the Jordan River Valley, the loop's most common starting point.
Mile 0 of 9
0 Deadman's Hill (trailhead/overlook)9 Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground
- Mile
- 0
- Elevation
- ≈1,291 ft
Jordan River Pathway landmarks
Map of the Jordan River Pathway Backpacking Loop from Deadman's Hill (trailhead/overlook)
3 of 3 places in this section
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Terrain USGS 3DEP · Water USGS NHD · Trail © OpenStreetMap contributors
How to get a Jordan River Pathway permit
As of November 2026, Jordan River Pathway in Jordan River Valley (MI), Michigan requires a permit issued via walk-up. Jordan River Pathway rates 4/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. The Jordan River Pathway route covers 18 miles, rated moderate.
- Type
- Thru-Hike
- Location
- MI
How this permit is issued
Get this permit in person at the trailhead or ranger station, or by phone.
Official permit page →Step 1: Check the agency page for the process
This permit is not sold online. Confirm where and when it is issued (and any fee) at www2.dnr.state.mi.us before your trip.
Step 2: Arrive early
Walk-up permits are issued first-come, first-served. Where the agency sets a daily quota, popular trailheads can run out on weekends and holidays.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Popular trailheads fill fast. Know alternate routes or dates.
Learn more:
More on Jordan River Pathway: Live availability activity
The Jordan River Pathway hike
- Distance
- 18 miles
- Route Type
- Loop
- Duration
- 1-2 nights
- Difficulty
- Moderate
How hard the Jordan River Pathway hike is
- Physical DemandFitness and endurance required4/5
- Technical SkillClimbing, scrambling, or specialized skills1/5
- NavigationRoute finding and trail clarity1/5
- CommitmentDifficulty of bailing out mid-route4/5
Best for: Experienced hikers with excellent fitness and relevant technical skills.
Recommended experience: Should have completed 10+ mile day hikes with significant elevation gain.
When to hike Jordan River Pathway
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (≈1,291 ft)
As of Nov 11
⚠️
Backcountry Tips
- As of Nov 11: 83% chance of precipitation. Pack rain gear.
- Snow expected: Check current trail conditions before departing.
Wed
🌧️
50°
35°
83%
Thu
❄️
36°
29°
44%
Fri
☁️
37°
29°
Sat
☁️
37°
29°
Sun
☁️
42°
32°
Mon
☁️
43°
37°
Tue
☁️
46°
35°
View full NWS forecast →Mountain weather changes rapidly. This forecast is a guide—always be prepared for worse conditions.
Jordan River Pathway rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Jordan River Pathway.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Jordan River Pathway · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
Some links may be affiliate links. Purchases support PermitSnag at no extra cost to you.
Jordan River Pathway FAQ
Do I need a permit to backpack the Jordan River Pathway?
No trail permit; overnight camping is restricted to the reservable Pinney Bridge campground.
How long is the Jordan River Pathway?
18 miles as a full loop.
Can I camp anywhere along the Jordan River Pathway?
No, only at the Pinney Bridge walk-in campground.
How many campsites are at Pinney Bridge?
15 walk-in sites.
Is there a shorter version of the Jordan River Pathway?
Yes, a 3-mile loop from Deadman's Hill.
What is special about the Jordan River?
Michigan's first designated Wild and Scenic River.
Where does the Jordan River Pathway start?
Most hikers start at Deadman's Hill near US-131.
Jordan River Pathway trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
If you've been on this trail recently, help others by reporting current conditions.
Questions
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Trip Reports
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Write the First ReportAlternatives to a Jordan River Pathway permit
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