This guide provides the details for many hiking trails in northwestern lower Michigan
generally within an hour of Traverse City.
Most of these trails allow cross-county skiing,
and/or snowshoeing, some are also used regularly
for mountain biking, and a few for horseback
riding. A few of the trails are paved and
can be used by road bikes and roller blades. OK, now, go... "Take a Hike!"
We interrupt
this Web page for a Special Notice...
BENZIE COUNTYTRAIL GUIDE booklets now available!
The "Benzie County Trail Guide" booklet is now in print. (Here is the front cover so you know
what to look for.) This 36-page, year-round guide provides the details for 20 trails
in
Benzie County for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. It includes
and has a road map to all the trails -- all one should need to "take a hike!"
These trails
are a great way to explore year round one of Northwestern Michigan's favorite counties!
Benzie County Trail Guides are
available at these fine establishments:
Benzonia
Benzie Area Historical Museum (v2)
Curves (v2)
Northern Natural Winery (v2)
Beulah
A. Papano's Pizza (v2)
Crystal Lake Adventure Sports (v2)
Elberta:
Conundrum Café (v2) Frankfort:
Betsie Bay Inn (v2)
Beyond Salon (v2)
Frankfort Chamber (v2)
The Bookstore (v2)
(Retailers:
please contact me about wholesale prices.)
See also: trailhead
locations for all Benzie County
trails on Google
Maps, or as a KML file
used in Google Earth. See also: Roaming Benzie County
A 3:30 minute slideshow (with music) of photos taken
while roaming the many trails of Benzie County, Michigan.
Notes About This Guide
Trail names listed in the main table above may be a shorter version than their
official name.
Web addresses were correct at the time of writing, but they can and do change
often.
Trails and trail maps are sometimes updated by the trail owners, so trail maps
on this page may be out of date, or not point to the official versions. Visit the
official Web page for a trail for the latest information. Trail maps in kiosks at
the trailheads should have the most up-to-date maps.
In a few cases no trail map existed, so I created one.
In many cases I offer a copy of the trail map I saved as protection from Web
sites that change and "lose" their own trail maps.
Some road distances, trail lengths, and hiking times are rough estimates.
A few of the trails are paved and therefore are also used for road biking and
inline skating.
Most areas have trail maps posted on-site. Those are up-to-date. Online trail
maps may be somewhat out of date.
The Road Map links are Google maps from which you can also get satellite and
terrain views and information.
Directions to trails are from the nearest town.
Limits of this Web page: Atwood, Ellsworth, East Jordan, Gaylord, Grayling, Higgins
Lake, McBain, Tustin, Luther, Manistee. (Roughly within about an hour / 60 miles
from Traverse City)
See Web Sites to Watch below to check for new trails
added since this page was last updated.
Please let me know if you have anything to add, suggest, or change.
101+ Hiking Tips by Rick
Halbert - Very thorough details for those going for extended hikes, covers these
major topics: Packing and Unpacking, Walking, Clothing, Etiquette, Staying Warm or
Cool, Care of Your Feet, Your Campsite, Knots For Backpackers, and Kitchen Tips.
Web Sites to Watch for new trails (as well
as nature preserves). These sites list many trails for northwestern Lower Michigan...
Township Parks - search for <XYZ> Township Parks where <XYZ> is
a township in your area of interest. Below is one of many towships with lots of parks:
From Traverse City, take US-31 perhaps 33 miles north of M-72 and (and perhaps
5 miles north of Eastport) to the tiny village of Atwood. About 0.2 miles north of
Byers Road (on the right (east) side of US-31) is Rex Beach Road on the left (west).
Turn left (west) and go 1.5 miles to Old Dixie Highway. You're now at the North Entrance
to the Natural Area. From here you can:
enter via the North Entrance here by continuing straight on Rex Beach Road through
the Natural Area down to parking and the beach.
take Old Dixie Hwy south about 0.5. miles to the South Entrance on the right
(west) side of the road.
An alternate way to the area is to take the Old Dixie Highway which you'll find
just north of Eastport.
More details
This area include almost a mile of shoreline on Grand Traverse Bay. It supports an
incredible array of natural diversity including hardwood forest, forested wetland,
conifer swamp, shrub thicket, meadow, wet meadow and coastal dune. Visitors can enjoy
hiking marked trails, swimming at the beautiful, Lake Michigan beach, cross-country
skiing, and bay fishing!
The North Entrance offer easier access to the beach, a dune overlook, and more trails.
Just south of the South Entrance is Antrim Creek which empties into Lake Michigan.
Trails there parallel the creek, offer a creek overlook, and take you to the beach
-- a fun place to play is where the Creek enters the Lake. There are two trails that
connect the north and south sections. There are rustic and both barrier-free trails.
From Wellston, go west on M-55 to Bosschem Road, the south on Bosschem one mile south
to parking area (at intersection with Pine Lake Road).
More details
Easy trail open year round. Scenic and secluded, the trail wanders through many species
of trees from all over Europe, Asia, and the USA. There's a small waterfall next
to trail.
From US-31 northeast of Traverse City, take M-72 east approximately 7 miles to Skegemog
Point Road. Then left (north) and go around 1.2 miles to the parking area and trailhead
on the left (west) side of road.
More details
The Battle Creek Natural Area includes a variety of diverse habitats; and vast ecological
systems. Battle Creek is a designated trout stream and is one of the largest and
most important tributaries to Elk Lake. The creek contributes approximately six billion
gallons of clean water to Elk Lake.
Huebner Pond and Dam is located in the southeast portion of the property on a tributary
of Battle Creek and provides scenic viewing.
Take this trail for a beautiful view of the south end of Elk Lake.
The Lossie Road Nature Trail crosses the south end of the property
providing two points of public access in addition to the main entrance located on
Skegemog Point Road.
There is a footbridge spanning Battle Creek creek along Lossie Road Nature Trail
to provide safe crossing
The Bauer Preserve trails travel through upland forest and old field.
The Polaczyk Preserve trails travel to a forested ridge and an overlook of the
Intermediate (Dingman) River.
Length
The Bauer Preserve trails 1.9 miles round trip
The Polaczyk Preserve trails 1.5 miles round trip
Hiking time
The Bauer Preserve trails about an hour
The Polaczyk Preserve trails around an hour
Difficulty
The Bauer Preserve trails appears to involve some hills up to the forested ridge.
Best guess for now moderate.
The Polaczyk Preserve trails appears to be easy
This is located roughly five miles east of Central Lake . Both preserves include
parking areas, trailheads, and informational kiosks.
The Bauer Preserve trails From Traverse City, take US-31 north to Eastport
and turn right (east) on M-88. Follow M-88 to Central Lake and then turn east on
County Hwy 24 (called State Street in town, and Old State Road out of town). Continue
on County Hwy 24 approximately 7 miles to Finkton Road. Turn left (north) and follow
Finkton Road. At about 1.2 miles it turns north and becomes Kidder Road. Follow this
about 1.2 miles to Schroeder Road. Turn left (west) and go about 1.2 miles to the
west end of Schroeder Road (where the it makes a ninety degree turn to the north
and becomes Graham Road) the preserve is on the left (south) side of the road.
The Polaczyk Preserve trails From Traverse City, take US-31 north to Eastport
and turn right (east) on M-88. Follow M-88 to Central Lake and then turn east on
County Hwy 24 (called State Street in town, and Old State Road out of town). Continue
on County Hwy 24 approximately 5 miles. About 1/2 mile past Six Mile Lake Road is
Wilson Road (a dirt road). Turn left (northwest) the preserve is about 2 miles
down at the end of Wilson Road.
More details
This area features forested valleys, steep ridges, wetlands and nearly 2200 feet
on the Intermediate (Dingman) River near the headwaters of the Chain of Lakes.
The Bauer Preserve trails a 0.6 mile connected loop and a 1.3 mile trail upland
forest and old field.
The Polaczyk Preserve trails two connected loops (1.2 miles) that travel to
and atop a forested ridge, and a 0.13 mile spur to an overlook of the Intermediate
(Dingman) River, a relaxing place to view the river, flora, and fauna.
From Glen Arbor, take M-22 north to the north entrance to Thoreson Road, then north
and east to the trailhead on the left (south) side of the road.
More details
The Lookout Point on this trail gives a panoramic view of Lake Michigan and the surrounding
countryside. The trail along the edge of the woods on top of the bluff overlooks
fields of wildflowers and former farmland with Lake Michigan in the background.
West loop: partially hilly trail to the Betsie River across an old orchard and through
the woods. East loop: flat trail through the woods with connections to Crystal Mountain
trails.
Length
8.4 miles of trails, comprised of two loops:
West loop 2.6 miles round trip.
East loop 5.2 miles round trip, (two connecting short-cuts available).
Hiking time
West loop about 1.3 hours round trip.
East loop about 2.5 hours round trip.
Difficulty
West loop moderate there are some easy hills leading down to and up from the
Betsie River.
East loop easy it's all flat.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes. And see "Connection to Crystal Mountain Trails" in the More details
section below.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes. And cross-country skiiers, see "Connection to Crystal Mountain Trails"
in the More details section below.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Benzonia, take US-31 south 2 miles to M-115, then southeast about 4 miles to
King Road, then west 1.2 miles to Longstreet Road, then south about a mile to trailhead
and parking lot on left (east) side of the road.
More details
Mostly wooded trail.
West loop half flat, half hilly. Starting at the NW corner of parking lot, the
trail crosses Longstreet Road, travels across a flat meadow (old orchard, mostly)
to the junction for the loop at post 6 near the edge of the woods. The loop goes
north along a meadow, through pines, west into the woods and then along a nice creek,
south along the Betsie River, then east back to the junction.
East loop All flat, mostly through woods, with connections to Crystal Mountain
trails see below.
Connection to Crystal Mountain Trails The east loop of this trail connects to Crystal Mountain trails at two places:
1. At the end of Joyfield Road, a short ways east of Stone Road, a Crystal Mountain
cross-country ski trail crosses Joyfield Road.
2. Southeast of post 3 there is a connector trail to Crystal Mountain hike, mouitain
bike, and cross-country ski trails, and shows up on the Crystal Mountain maps below.
Crystal Mountain:
cross-country ski
Web page
cross-country ski
trail map
bike
and hike Web page bike
and hike trail map
This former railroad runs from Frankfort to Thompsonville, passes through Elberta
and Beulah, and goes by Betsie Bay, the Betsie River, and Crystal Lake.
Length
23 miles (one-way)
Frankfort to Elberta 2 miles
Elberta to Beulah 8 miles
Beulah to Thompsonville 13 miles
Hiking time
Perhaps 9 hours total, (one-way).
Difficulty
Easy it's a former railroad and is flat the whole way. Some parts are paved, some
crushed gravel / aggregate, and some loose gravel.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes, road and mountain bikes.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, from Frankfort to Beulah. (The trail from Beulah to Thompsonville is open to
snowmobiles from December through March.)
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
There are many places to access the trail. See the trail's Web
site for map and more details. The main trailheads are:
Frankfort at Cannon Park near the Lake Michigan beach.
Elberta where the trail crosses M-22 just east of town.
Between Elberta and Benzonia on River Road at Adams Road (near the Betsie River
bridge).
Mollineaux Road at the Crystal Lake Outlet
Beulah at the train depot downtown.
Thompsonville: trail-side parking at the ballpark on the north side of Lindy
Road in town. Enter the parking area beside the trail where it crosses Lindy Road,
about 0.1 miles west of Thompsonville Road..
More details
The trail runs from Frankfort through Elberta and Beulah on to Thompsonville. The
trail has many scenic aspects and is wooded in many areas. It starts at Lake Michigan
and goes by the Betsie Bay, the Betsie River (in several places), and Crystal Lake
for several miles.
The trail begins in Frankfort at Cannon Park on Main Street (next to Lake Michigan
beach near the Frankfort lighthouse).
From Frankfort to Elberta the trails skirts the Betsie Bay.
From Frankfort to Beulah the trail is for non-motorized use only. The trail is paved
for six miles from Frankfort to Mollineaux Road, so this section is good for road
bikes and roller-blading.
Between River Road and Mollineaux Road the trail parallels the Betsie River in the
woods for a while. Watch for turtles in the ponds on the northwest (left) side of
the trail.
For the three miles from Mollineaux Road to Beulah, the trail runs along Crystal
Lake (after crossing its outlet into the Betsie River) and is compacted aggregate.
From Beulah to Thompsonville the aggregate trail is more remote with few structures
and passes through miles of pine and hardwood forests. This part of the trail is
open to snowmobiles from December through March.
Plenty of hills on this trail through a hardwood and pine forest.
Length
46 miles in many loops.
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Moderate "An intermediate level trail system with plenty of both steep and
long hills with a variety of wooded terrain to challenge every experience level."
Big M is located between the communities of Manistee and Wellston in Manistee County,
Michigan. From Wellston, head west on M-55 for about 4 miles. Head south on East
Udell Hills Road for 3 miles to the park entrance and the parking area.
More details
Big M is located east of Manistee, deep in the heart of the hardwood and pine forest
of the Udell Hills, within the Manistee National Forest. The USDA Forest Service
and volunteers maintain the trails during the summer season.
The trail system covers a circle of hills in an area about 2.5 miles by 5 miles.
The North Country Trail runs through the area, cutting
across the outer loop system from south to north.
A Huron-Manistee National Forest vehicle pass is required from April 1st to November
1st, which is $5 daily.
The Udell
Lookout Tower (fire watch tower) is within the Big M trails, but is not open
to the public. Primarily for cross-county skiing and mountain biking, this great collection
of paths is fun for hikers, too. Note: hikers should be ever watchful of mountain
bikers.
An invigorating biking trail, be prepared for many aerobic climbs. And well worth
the 360-degree view of the Manistee National Forest from the top of Cappers Peak.
All trails can be hiked whenever there is not snow.
This site is maintained in winter and access road and parking lot are plowed.
North end of the trail off Hannah Road just south of the Traverse Area District
Library.
South end of the trail at Medalie Park in the Logan's Landing area off South
Airport Road in Traverse City.
More details
Primarily a road bike path, this heavily wooded, serene trail runs along the east
side of Boardman Lake, is paved for the northern mile, and has a crushed limestone
surface for the southern mile. In the winter, this trail may be groomed for XC skiing
if / when conditions are favorable.
Several miles of trails along the Boardman River, mostly in the woods, broken in
to three connecting loops.
Length
There are three connecting loop trails that cover about 3 miles in total.
Fox Den Loop: 0.6 miles
Sabin Pond Loop: 0.8 miles
Beaver Pond Loop: 1.4 miles
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Easy the trails are mostly flat, but there some small hills and boardwalks along
the way.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but a deep hard-pack of snow on the boardwalks could be difficult on skis.
Take Cass Road south out of Traverse City. Around 1.5 miles south of Airport Road
is the entrance and parking lot for Sabin Dam (and Grand Traverse Conservation District)
on the left (east) side of the road. From here is direct access to the Fox Den
Loop Trail and Sabin Pond Trail.
Also, take Cass Road a little farther south to just before it crosses the Boardman
Dam. There is a parking lot on the left (east) side of the road for direct access
to the Beaver Pond Loop Trail.
More details
This is the north half of the GTNER area. See Boardman
River South for the southern section of the GTNER.
This northern half of the GTNER area contains three connecting loop trails along
the Boardman River that run from the Boardman Dam (at Cass Road) to north of the
Sabin Dam.
From Sabin Dam area, follow the service road down to Sabin Dam you will find the
Fox Den Loop Trail goes off from the left (north). It, crosses Jack's Creek
and a cattail marsh on boardwalk and loops back to Sabin Dam. On the north end of
the loop it connects directly to the Boardman
Valley Nature Preserve, a trail that continues along the west side of the river
to the YMCA just south of Airport Road in Traverse City.
Also from Sabin Dam area, the Sabin Pond Trail goes to the right (south) along
the west side of the river. It connects to the Beaver Pond Loop Trail which
continues south to the Boardman Dam.
Several miles of trails along the Boardman River, mostly in the woods, broken in
to four trails, three of which connect to each other.
Length
There are four trails that cover 2.35 miles one-way.
Boardman Pond Trail: 0.75 miles one way
These three trails connect to each other:
Lone Pine Trail: 0.5 miles one way
Oleson Bridge Trail:0.7 miles one way
Keystone Rapids Trail: 0.4 miles one way
From Beitner Bridge to the end of Lone Pine Trail (skipping the west section of
the Oleson Bridge Trail) is about 2.5 miles one way.
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Easy the trails are mostly flat, but there some small hills along the way.
From the intersection or Airport Road and Cass Road,.take Cass Road south out of
Traverse City:
about 2.5 miles to the Boardman Pond parking lot and trailhead on the right (south)
side of the road (and on the west side of Boardman Dam).
about 2.6 miles to Keystone Road (crossing the Boardman Dam), Turn right (south)
and go:
- 1.0 miles to the Lone Pine parking lot and trailhead on the right (west)
site of the road.
- 1.3 miles to the Oleson Bridge parking lot and trailhead on the right
(west) site of the road.
- 1.8 miles to the Keystone Rapids parking lot and trailhead on the right
(west) site of the road.
More details
This is the south half of the GTNER area. See Boardman
River North for the northern section of the GTNER.
This southern half of the GTNER area contains four trails, three of which connect
to each other, along the Boardman River from the Boardman Dam (at Cass Road) south
to the Beitner Bridge (at Beitner Road).
The Boardman Pond Trail goes along the west side of the river from Cass Road
on the west side of Boardman Dam. It ends almost direclty across from the north end
of the Lone Pine Trail (too bad there's no bridge to connect these!).
The Lone Pine Trail goes along the east side of the river. On north side,
it does not quite reach to Cass Road, and on its south end it connect to the Oleson
Bridge Trail.
The Oleson Bridge Trail is aptly named as it "bridges" (joins) the
Lone Pine Trail (on its east side) with the Keystone Rapids Trail just south of the
Oleson foot bridge. Cross the bridge to explore a little on the west side of the
river.
The Keystone Rapids Trail goes along the east side of the river from the the
Oleeon Bridge Trail at its north end to the Beitner Bridge (at Beitner Road) on its
south end. Along this stretch you'll find the famous Boardman River Keystone Rapids.
The area contains several miles of trails along the Boardman River. This guide divides
the area into two sections, each has several trails within them:
Boardman River North Boardman River South
Trails in this area extend from the Beitner Bridge (east end of Beitner Road)
north along the Boardman River, past the Keystone Rapids, past both the Boardman
Dam (at Cass Road) and Sabin Dam and connects to the Boardman
Valley Nature Preserve trail the north end, which reaches almost to Airport Road
in Traverse City. And should you desire, the journey continues on the north side
of Airport Road on the Boardman Lake Trail.
There are several access points along the way. See respective sections for more details.
See also the Brown Bridge Quiet Area for trails
much further upstream on the Boardman River at Brown Bridge Pond.
In Traverse City, take Airport Road to Racquet Club Drive in the Logan's Landing
area (Boardman River valley). Take Racquet Club Drive south to the Grand Traverse
Bay YMCA. The reserve is accessed from the parking lot adjacent the YMCA. Public
restrooms are available within the YMCA building.
More details
Also called the Garfield Township Boardman Nature Reserve.
Dispersed along the trail are a number wooden bridges as well as observation / fishing
decks overlooking the river.
This is the northern part of several trails along the west side of the Boardman River.
At the southern end, this trail connects directly with the Fox Den Loop Trail
in Boardman River North the northern section
of the GTNER.
To continue exploring north along the Boardman River, see the Boardman
Lake Trail.
To North area from the intersection of Garfield Road and Hammond Road, take
Garfield south about 5.3 miles to Hobbs Highway, (this is just before Garfield drops
into the Boardman River valley),, then left (east) about 2 miles to Ranch Rudolph
Road. Veer to the right on to Ranch Rudolph Road and watch for parking areas on the
right (south) side to road. (There are three parking areas around 0.2 miles apart.)
To South area take Garfield Road south out of Traverse City to River Road,
then left (east) around 1/2 mile to parking lot on left (north) side of the road.
More details
Designated trails run throughout the property and vary in distance and difficulty.
Boardwalks and wildlife overlooks are scattered throughout the area.
The North and South areas do not connect (unless can find a way to cross the river
easily)
The North area has trails which go through a dry-mesic northern forest, two
observation platforms from which you can view the whole area, and a staircases taking
you from high ridge to pond level.
The South area has trails that traverse dry-mesic northern forests and hardwood-conifer
swamps and a public boat launch near the dam.
1) 13th Street Off US-131, turn east on 13th St. (at the Cadillac Fairgrounds)
and past Baker College, CTC will be on the left. Turn in at the last building and
the trails are behind it. Follow the directions and maps posted on the trail.
2) Off Boon Road 5 miles NE of Cadillac via US-131 Boon Rd (34 Mile Rd), &
Seeley Road. (Near the Clam River.)
More details
Trail hosts a variety of terrain that is well mapped. You will be treated to hills,
forests, and the Clam River.
More of a mountain biker's trail, it a favorite for local cyclists. A good all-around
trail, contains both large climbs and quick stuff. Sometimes sandy, so don't go after
a rain. But a great 'have-fun' trail, with real potential for a workout. Rolling
single-track with few tough hills. Can be ridden by all levels of riders, from novice
to expert.
Nice loop trail through rolling and wooded terrain.
Length
2 mile loop round trip.
Hiking time
Around an hour round trip.
Difficulty
Moderate there are many easy hills throughout the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes. Designed by a mountain bike trail expert, in fact.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes,
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
This trail is accessed from the St. Pierre Trailhead of the Arcadia Dunes Nature
Preserve
From Frankfort take M-22 south over 9 miles to St. Pierre Road. (This will be about
0.4 miles south of Joyfield Road.). Go south on St. Pierre Road about 300 yards to
the parking lot on left (east) side of road. The sign will say St. Pierre Trailhead.
More details
Pretty, rolling, and wooded terrain. The trail is marked with purple blazes on trees.
Note: this trail is also the western most portion and west (St. Pierre) trailhead
for the 10-mile Dry Hill Trail loop.
From the intersection on M-72 and M-22 in Empire, head north on M-22 about 0.7 mile.
The parking area is located on the left (northwest) side of the street just south
of the creek.
In winter, if the parking lot on M-22 is not plowed, turn onto LaCore street as if
heading toward the Empire Museum. Then turn right on Fisher Street and follow signs
to recycling bins. Park in recycling area.
More details
Relatively short trail on easy terrain. Four separate ecosystems and a birder's paradise.
A stream runs through and long the property which flows into South Bar Lake. Many
species of trees and wildflowers. There's a beaver pond on the south end.
Three miles south of East Jordan on M-66 across from the Wagbo Peace Center (1/4
mile south of the Antrim / Charlevoix county line). Look for a kiosk and large parking
area on the east side of M-66.
More details
A good place to watch for migrating birds who have returned to the area. You might
see the coyote, deer, or fox that have been spotted on the preserve. The woodland,
wetland and grassland habitats here are home to many plant and animal species. There's
boardwalk through a cedar swamp twice crosses Bennett Creek, which is part of the
Jordan River watershed
Access the trail from the Piece Stocking Scenic Drive. From Empire, take M-22 north
about 2 miles to M-109. Then left (north) and go a little over a mile to the Pierce
Stocking Scenic Drive. Entrance is on the left (west) side of the road.
More details
Up on the dunes, mostly in sand. Loop goes from the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
to the top of the main dune climb and back. Great views.
From the intersection of SE Torch Lake Drive (County Hwy 593) and Valley Road, go
east on Valley Road to the trailhead on the right (south) side of the road.
"A leg-stretcher. Trail includes the 1.4-mile Long Loop and a Short Loop.
The Short Loop is indeed slightly shorter and doesnt have quite the elevation gain
but it would be a shame not to follow the Long Loop. For the effort of climbing 170
feet you are rewarded with a view of Torch Lake from the top of Reuben Coys mountain."
"At the peak of Coy Mountain you get a glimpse of Torch Lake to the west and
can hear the bustle of Alden straight below you."
Property in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Crystal
Lake Hills is a name used for reference only on this Web page. This is not
an official trail or maintained by any organization.
Steady uphill loop trail through the woods to the hills above the north side of Crystal
Lake.
Length
1.4 miles, round trip.
Hiking time
A little over an hour, round trip.
Difficulty
Moderate the trail winds steadily up a gentle hill (about 300 vertical feet) most
of the way. There's a fair amount of tree fall on the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but cross-country skiing would be very difficult because of all the tree fall.
Snowshoeing could be difficult as well unless there's lots of snow.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, take M-22 northbound. Along Crystal Lake, you'll come to the intersection
of M-22 and Crystal Drive. M-22 turns north and Crystal Drive heads east to Beulah.
Stay on M-22 and go 0.3 miles north of the intersection. You'll see the small Round
Lake on the right (east) side of the road. Just before a Do Not Pass sign, stop
and look on the left (west) side of the road. There you will see the start of the
path and a post with No Vehicles Off Road and No Snowmobile signs. Roadside parking
only.
More details
This is an "unofficial" trail that winds steadily uphill most of the
way through a scenic mature forest. Some trees are over 100 feet tall.
This trail does not get used often and is unmarked. (But there are some yellow tags
/ dots on trees along the way on some portions.) It's not a clean and clear path.
But for 90% of the way its not hard to follow if you stay in the center of the V
of the valley between the hills on each side.
There's a fair amount of tree fall to step over and walk around. And there are lots
of leaves in the path that can cover and hide small branches. So this trail is no
good for cross-country skiers, and could be difficult for snowshoers unless there's
lots of snow. Casual hikers might not enjoy this trail as much as regularly maintained
ones. So, this trail is not for everyone. But it's very pretty and a good aerobic
hike.
If you are going to take the Southern Trail (to do the full loop) you'll need a compass
for a few sections (near points C, D, E, and F) where there's no easy valley to follow.
And there's a little more tree fall to climb around than on the Northern Trail.
For a hike that's easier to follow, just take the main Northern Trail up and back.
(A compass is handy if you're going to explore the open field at the top.)
Here are the points you need to know that go along with the trail map:
For reference only and not shown on the map About 70
steps (perhaps 140 feet) from M-22 on the left is a valley to the southwest. Ignore
this.
A about 150 steps (perhaps 300 feet) from M-22 on the left is a trail
going up the valley to the southwest. That's the start of the Southern Trail. If
you want to do the full loop and you have a compass, take this trail. But for an
easier-to-follow hike just stay on the main Northern Trail.
B about 600 steps (perhaps 1200 feet) along the Southern Trail the clearer
path dies out, it's now essentially a deer path. But there's still an obvious valley
to follow.
C about 750 steps (perhaps 1500 feet) along the Southern Trail you enter
a flat area with hills on either side and a shallow hill straight ahead.. Contiunue
WNW across this flat area, then follow the shallow valley up hill going WNW and then
NW.
D about 1100 steps (perhaps 2200 feet) along the Southern Trail the shallow
valley dies out. Continue going NW.
E about 1350 steps (perhaps 2700 feet) along the Southern Trail watch
for blue dots (and a few pink tags) on a north-south going row of trees. You should
also see a double yellow tag on a tree. You're at the western-most part of the Southern
Trail.
Here the trail turns 45 degrees and goes due north. Follow the blue dots (and yellow
tags and pink tags) on the trees and go straight north for about 65 steps, perhaps
130 feet, to point F.
F where the Southern and Northern Trails connect.
If you came via the Southern Trail, this point close is perhaps 3100 feet from
M-22. You can spot this point by the yellow tags on 3 trees (along the row of blue
dot trees). It's a flat area at the top of long valley that heads to the east the
top end of the Northern Trail.
If you came via the Northern Trail, this point is perhaps 2800 feet from M-22.
It's a flat area where the valley and path die out. You can spot this point by watching
for blue dots on a north-south going row of trees. Then see the yellow tags on 3
trees.You may also spy a few pink tags on trees. You're at the top end and western-most
part of the Northern Trail.
As can be seen on the trail map or road map there's a open field to the northwest
it may be hard to see from this point. If you want to explore the field, an easy
way to get there is:
From point F, go west 38 steps (perhaps 76 feet). You may notice you're now in
the middle of a old logging road. ((This make be hard to notice in the full growth
of summer.)
Go 165 steps (perhaps 400 feet) following the old road as it goes north then
curves to the left (NW) and goes to the edge of the field.
Go 100 steps (perhaps 230 feet) NW to top of hill in the field for nice view
of Lake Michigan to the NNW.
Then navigate back to point F.
What do I do now?
If you came via the Southern Trail, to continue on the loop, from this point
take the Northern Trail heading east down the valley that starts there. And good
news it's all downhill from here have fun!
If you came via the Northern Trail, you can
return back down the Northern Trail for the easiest way back down.
or go due south following the blue dots (as well as yellow tags and pink tags)
on the trees for about 65 steps, perhaps 130 feet. to point E. You should also see
a double yellow tag on a tree. This is the western corner of the Southern Trail.
From here you take the Southern Trail back down using yellow tags on trees. It starts
heading SE then tunrs to the east. Have fun!
G for reference only about 350 steps (perhaps 700 feet) from M-22
going off to the north (and then northwest) is a another shallower valley that parallels
the Northern Trail part of the way.
From Traverse City, from the intersection of M-72 and M-22 (Tom's West Bay) go north
on M-22 1.2 miles to Cherry Bend Road. Go left (west) 2.0 miles and look for the
barn on your right. Pull into the parking area by the barn.
More details
Historic farmstead with nearly a mile of frontage on Cedar Lake.
There is a quarter-mile trail that winds through mature cedars near the shore of
Cedar Lake. It leads down to a fishing and wildlife observation pier on the lake.
The TART trail runs through a portion of this land on the lake side.
To get to the trail from the Cherry Bend Road parking lot cross the TART trail
and look for signs leading to the Cedar Lake Trail and pier.
Longer trail through nice woods, easy rolling hills, and farm meadows.
Length
10 mile loop
Hiking time
Perhaps 5 hours round trip.
Difficulty
Moderate there are many easy hills throughout the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
This trail spins off of the Chestnut trail which
is accessed from the St. Pierre Trailhead of the Arcadia Dunes Nature Preserve.
From Frankfort take M-22 south over 9 miles to St. Pierre Road. (This will be about
0.4 miles south of Joyfield Road.). Go south on St. Pierre Road about 300 yards to
the parking lot on left (east) side of road. The sign will say St. Pierre Trailhead.
More details
Pretty ,rolling wooded, and farm meadow terrain. The trail is marked with purple
blazes on trees. The trail crosses Matzinger Road once and Taylor Road twice these
are alternate access points but with only roadside parking available.
From Empire, take M-22 north about 2 miles to M-109. Then turn left (north) and go
about 3.5 miles to the Dune Climb entrance and parking lot on the left (west) site
of the road. You will see the dunes on the left.
More details
Strenuous hike starts at the Dune Climb and ends at Lake Michigan. 5 major sand hills
to climb on the way there. Take sun and foot protection and plenty of water. Please
treat this journey with extra respect and allow plenty of time to enjoy it. Great
views and fun exploration atop the dunes.
Relatiively easy trail near East Creek in maple and pine forest.
Length
Sourthen loop: about 1.5 miles (as of 9/2011 and skipping a 0.2 mile shortcut)
Northern loop: about 1.3 miles (as of 9/2011 and skipping a 0.2 mile shortcut)
From Traverse City, take Garfield Road south to Mayfield Road (about 0.7 miles
south of River Road.). Turn left (east) and go less than a mile to just before (west
of) the bridge over East Creek. On the right (south) you'll notice a small clearing
(see
here) where you can park.
From the northern loop, take Wadsworth Road southeast 0.6 miles to Mayfield Road.
Turn right (west) and go about a mile to just after (west of) the bridge over East
Creek. On the left (south) you'll notice a small clearing (see
here) where you can park.
Note, at this clearing is also where the Shore-To-Shore
Trail head south from Mayfield Road.
Near the southwest corner of the clearing is where the southern loops start see
an opening in a wooden fence and post with yellow tip. (About 50 feet to the east
is where the Shore-to-Shore Trails heads south into the woods). This trail is marked
in several ways: a few posts with yellow tips (three were seen: one at the entrance
and two at intersections), trees with yellow circles, and yellow triangular signs
nailed to trees.
About the trail map:
Be sure take a copy of the map you.
Pay close attention to what are current trails and what are future trails.
It appears very likely the final spur on the south end of the trail system the
goes to the edge of the property is not on the map. Therefore, also not shown on
the map is the intersection of the spur with the main trail. It's from that intersection
where one can head west on a loop.
There is NOT good parking where the map indicates a parking location on the east
side of the East Creek bridge, so park instead in the clearing / parking area
mentioned above.
The northern loop
From Traverse City, take Garfield Road south to River Road. Turn left (east)
and go 0.7 miles to Wadsworth Road. Turn right (southeast) and go 0.8 miles to an
unmarked gravel road on the right (southwest). (A tree here make hahe a yellow marker
or yuellow ribbons.) Turn right (southwest) and go les than 0.1 miles to a small
parking lot on the right (west).
From the southern loop, tgo about 1.0 miles east on Mayfield Road to Wadsworth
Road. Turn left (northwest) and go about 0.6 miles to an unmarked gravel road on
the left (southwest). (A tree here may have a yellow marker or yellow ribbons.) Turn
left (southwest) and go less than 0.1 miles to a small parking lot on the right (west).
Be sure to take a copy of the trail map with you. It' does not have show the details
of all the sharp bends, but it will help.
The trail starts out on a wood chip path headed west across a square open field.
This trail is marked in several ways: a few posts with yellow tips at intersections,
yellow triangular signs nailed to trees, and primarily trees with yellow circles.
Pay very close attention the the trees with yellow circles there are several
old roads and paths here, so it can be easy to get off course.
More details
The southern loop is a very pretty pine and maple forest with some easy hills involved.
The northern loop is flat and takes goes through very pretty woods filled with red
pine, maple, and oak, and lots of new and old white pine.. Early on the southern
portion of the loop, you'll' go by (and hear if it's a running) a "cricket"
(natural gas pump)in a small clearing. A little later and before the western tip
of the loop, you'll go along a ridge high above the East Creek valley.
Relatively short trail first across a meadow then uphill to the top the dunes for
a fantastic view of the Betsie River valley and Lake Michigan.
Length
1 mile round-trip, main trail only.
Hiking time
Less than an hour round-trip, main trail only.
Difficulty
Strenuous 240 feet vertical distance. The first third is flat, then it's all uphill,
sometimes a bit difficult. (But it's all worth it for the view!)
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes. But cross-country skiing would be very difficult because of the narrow trail
and steep (but short) hills involved.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From downtown Elberta take M-22 south about 0.5 miles and on the right (west) side
of the road look for very small mowed parking area with signs.
More details
From the parking area, begin via a mowed path through a field leading to the woodsy
hills to the west. Then its all uphill. In a few places the trail is narrow, sandy,
and/or fairly steep. At the top, you're 250 feet above Lake Michigan and rewarded
with great views of the Lake and the Betsie River valley. You'll need to "play
mountain goat" a little for views of the Frankfort Lighthouse.
EMPIRE BLUFF TRAIL (Part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore)
Web page
#1 about First Creek and other projects along the Big Manistee River watershed. Web page #2 for the Mish-A-Mish
Roadside Park shows the nature area's boundary.
Trail map
None found.
General idea
Easy hike through the woods, prairie, and boardwalk over First Creek.
Accessed through the Mish-A-Mish roadside park, which is on the right (southwest)
side of highway M-115 in Copemish.
More details
After the failure of the First Creek dam in 1989, it was removed in 2000. The First
Creek Nature Trail was established on the 40 acres that includes the wetland where
the Copemish Dam Pond once was. Trail runs along the wetland left by the former pond
and goes through surrounding uplands. Early on the trail is a 200 foot boardwalk
that crosses First Creek. The trail is mostly unmarked. When out on the backside
(southern part) of the loop in the prairie, follow the overgrown wood-chip path and
orange-tipped wooden stakes, and later trampled ferns, to find your way.
First Creek is the headwaters for Bear Creek, which is a major tributary for the
Big Manistee River.
Fairly easy trail in nice woods with mostly gentle hills.
Length
3.2 miles all pieces, round-trip
Main trail (blue): 0.8 miles one-way
Red spur trail: 0.2 miles one-way
Orange spur trail: 0.2 miles one-way
Green spur trail: 0.4 miles one-way
Hiking time
About 2 hours round trip.
Difficulty
Moderate many easy hills throughout the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, take M-22 south about 5 miles to Herron Road, then turn left (east)
and go one mile to the parking lot on the left (north) side of the road.
More details
This wooded preserve was originally part of Fruithaven Orchards and is now a haven
for wildlife. As of fall 2010, color-tipped wooden stakes mark the trails. Follow
the arrows on the stakes. Many of the trails are old two-tracks.
The main (blue) trail, about 0.8 miles long, is a steady but easy uphill climb the
whole way. There are three spur trails along the way:
About half-way up at stake B-6/R-1 is the intersection for the Red Spur Trail
on the right (east). It's 0.2 miles long (about 422 paces), uphill most of the way,
and dies out at a red stake about 250 feet downhill from a high point.
About 300 feet further up at stake B-8/O-1 is the intersection for the Orange
Spur Trail on the right (east). It's a little over 0.2 miles long (about 468 paces),
uphill all of the way, and dies out at stake O-8 before reaching any high point.
Note: at stake O-3 veer to the left, and at stake O-4 veer to the right.
A little over 200 feet from the intersection for the Orange Spur Trail is a long
notch in a hill. Just past that are two intersections for the Green Spur Trail on
the left (west) the first is NOT marked, and the second, up about 200 feet, IS
marked. This 0.4 mile spur trail explores the northwestern area of the preserve.
At the top of the hill, the trail ends at an existing orchard. (Careful, thats
an electric fence there!)
Located a short ways northwest of Bellaire. From Bellaire take the Bellaire Hwy (W.
Cayuga St.) west about 2 miles to Eckhardt Road. Turn right (north) and go about
0.8 miles (through two 90 degree turns) and near a thrid turn, watch for signs and
an entrance to parking that veers off to the right (north).
More details
Here you'll find extreme ecological diversity with 12 distinct habitat types that
support 20 species of trees, over 100 species of flowers, and over 100 species of
birds. Two hardwood forest types, three wetland habitats, and the shrub thicket and
wet mesic forest types. Features switchback climbs up beautiful hills.
2012 this Natural Area will share a combined trail system which will be well-suited
for hiking, biking, cross country skiing, hunting and wildlife viewing. The GTRLC
is designing the trail system at Glacial Hills as well as overseeing a substantial
volunteer effort to construct the trail.
From Glen Arbor, take M-22 east about 8 miles to S. Boehemian Road (C.R. 669), turn
left (north) and go a little over a mile to Lake Michigan Road, then right (east)
an go about 0.8 miles to parking lot and trail entrance on the right (south) side
of the road.
Several short connecting trails in the rolling hills and woods just west of the Grand
Traverse Commons Area.
Length
Nine interconnecting trails, ranging from 300 feet to 4700 feet in length..
Hiking time
Varies with route and trail(s) taken.
Difficulty
Mostly moderate most trails involve easy to moderate hills. However about two thirds
of the Old Orchard trail (red) are strenuous and steep as they take you to the top
of the hill there and back down. And the Copper Ridge Trail (copper) is also strenous
with the hills involved on this trail.
There are several access points: The Road Maps below and the trail maps above
will help location these a lot.
In Traverse City, Munson Hospital, Parking Lot K. In the middle of the west side
you'll find the trailhead for the Tanglewood Trail. Road
Map.
In Traverse City, take 11th street east off US-31 past Elmwood and take the first
left (Silver Dr.). Turn right on Blue Dr.., left on Gray Drive and park at the end.
Cedar Cathedral Trailhead is here, trail take off from west of the buildings here
into the woods. Road
Map
In Traverse City, take 11th street east off US-31 past Elmwood,, take the first
left (Silver Dr.) and keep to the left and drive by Red Drive on the right. Take
the next right and go straight west until you "T" with Red Drive. On the
west side of the road you'll find the trailhead for the Garfield Trail it leads
up the hill and also into the woods. Road
Map
In Traverse City, take 11th street east off US-31 past Elmwood,, take the first
left (Silver Dr.) and follow it all the way to the Red Drive Loop in the southwest
corner of the Commons. By the gravel road from the barns and in the middle of the
west side you'll find the trailhead for the Meadows Trail. Trail leads off from here
and into the woods just opposite the school. Road
Map
The Copper Ridge trailhead at the southern tip of the trail system and the Copper
Ridge trail. Road
Map
From Traverse City, at US-31 (Division Street) and Front Street, take Front Street
west 1.5 miles (crossing Cedar Run) to parking and access area on the left (south)
side of the road. Here you'll find a trailhead for the Garfield Trail. (The road
here is called Long Lake Road.) Road
Map
More details
Also called the Grand Traverse Commons Recreation Area. These trails occupy the woods
and hills behind (west of) Munson Hospital, Grand Traverse Commons, and the former
State Hospital. The 480 acres are sometimes referred to as the State Hospital property,
referring to when the Grand Traverse Commons buildings were a state psychiatric hospital.
The Copper Ridge Trail provides access to a 38-acre wooded parcel to the west
owned by the State of Michigan that is also available for public use.
Pretty batch of easy trails and boardwalks (along with observation platforms) going
along creeks and rivers, winding through forests, stream corridors, swamps, and above
floating sedges.
From Mancelona, drive west on M-88. After 2.5 miles, M-88 turns sharply to the right
(north). Do not follow it. Instead, continue driving west on Country Road 618 for
about 6 miles. The site entrance is on the right side of the road, about 1/2 mile
west of Comfort Road.
More details
Near the village of Bellaire on Antrim County's Chain of Lakes, this area comprises
1,325 acres along the pristine Grass River, with a well-developed network of trails,
boardwalks, and observation platforms along Finch Creek and the Grass River winding
through upland forests, stream corridors, tamarack swamps, above floating sedges.
Great area for wildlife viewing.
Hilly trail mostly through woods. Two wonderful overlooks of Lake Michigan as well
as stairs to Lake Michigan beach.
Length
Round trip, the entire loop 1.9 miles.
Round trip only to the Lookouts above Lake Michigan 1.3 miles.
Round trip only to the Stairs at Lake Michigan beach 1.8 miles.
Hiking time
Round trip, the entire loop a little over an hour.
Round trip only to the Lookouts just under an hour.
Round trip only to the Stairs a little over an hour.
Difficulty
Moderate there are many easy to moderate hills throughout the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, take M-22 south about 4 miles to Green Point Road, then turn right
(west) and go 1200 feet to the parking lot.
More details
Wooded, rolling terrain. Trails are marked with purple blazes on trees.
The Lookout trail goes up to two lookouts offering great views high above Lake Michigan.
Once you get to the first hexagonl lookout, notice a path leading from it out to
the bluff. It's a only a few hundred feet long. Take this out to the bluffs you will
find another little observation deck perched right on the edge of the bluff!
The Stairs trail goes down to the beautiful sandy Lake Michigan beach.
New in 2012, a 0.4 mile connecting trail from the west Lookout to the Stairs creates
a nice 1.3 mile loop.
From Traverse City, take Garfield Road south around 9 miles to Voice Road (which
is 2.8 miles past River Road), then turn left (east) and go 0.5 miles and watch for
the preserve on the right (south) side of the road (before the intersection with
Summit City Road).
More details
This rolliing forested and grassland preserve was once a pasture for cattle; but
now, bear and other wildlife roam. The property is being restored to a native tree
woodlot by managing the old pine plantation.
Several trails totaling over 20 miles, ranging from 0.25 to 7.5 miles in length.
Aspen Trail: 3 miles
Au Sable River Trail: 3 miles
Bright and Glory Lakes Trail: 0.25 miles
Deer Run Trail: 5 miles
Old Growth Forest Trail: 1.25 miles
Mertz Grade Trail: 2 miles
Weary Legs Trail: 7.5 miles
Hiking time
Varies with trail / route taken.
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate, depending on the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes, on specific trails only, such as Aspen Trail and Weary Legs Trail. See trail
map, for details, too.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Cross-country skiing: yes, but on specific trails only,
Snowshoeing: yes, but on specific trails only,
Hartwick Pines is located in Crawford County, northeast of Grayling,, almost straight
east of Traverse City and Kalkaska.
In general, take I-75 to Exit 259 (north of Grayling), then northeast on M-93 three
miles.
From Traverse City and Kalkaska, you'll skip I-75. Take M-72 to Grayling. At the
James Street / McClellan Street intersection in town, turn left heading north McClellan
Street (this is also Business 75 / M-93). Go about 2.5 miles to the intersection
with Hartwick Pines Road and turn right (heading northeast) -- you're still on M-93
and Business 75. After about 1.5 miles you'll cross under I76 (this is Exit 259).
Here Business 75 ends and the road is called Hartwick Pines Road and M-93. Keep going
-- three miles up is State Park Drive -- the main entrance to the park.
More details
A Michigan State Park Motor Vehicle Permit is required for entry. ($6 daily
or $24 annually).
The largest state park in Michigan's northern lower peninsula, Hartwick Pines is
rich in scenic beauty and different habitats. It contains the largest stand of virgin
(Old Growth Pines) white pines remaining in the lower peninsula along the Old
Growth Forest Foot Trail. The park also has good mixture of other forest types
that typically grow on the sandy soils found in this part of Michigan. Several small
lakes, the East Branch of the Au Sable River and its associated streams and wetlands
further add to the diversity that makes this park very attractive to wildlife. The
offer a very nice Visitor Center here as well as Logging Museum. The park is open
from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. year round.
It's likely the main hiking trail can be used for XC skiing and snowshoeing in the
winter.
Also, if you park at the southwest corner of the property off Randolph Street, there
is a groomed XC ski trail available.
From Traverse City at M-22 and M-72 (west bay), take M-72 west about a mile and watch
for gravel drive (old driveway?) on the left (south) side of the highway. Turn in
here the parking lot and trail start are about 200 feet down this drive.
More details
Hiking trail and a groomed XC ski trail meander through upland forests.and meadows.
Web page
but only for the boat launch at the dam.
Trail map
None found, and it's very likely none exists.
General idea
Trail travels along the north side of the Betsie River downstream (west) from the
Homestead Dam through the woods with some easy hills.
Length
Approximately 2.7 miles round trip.
Hiking time
About 2 hours round trip.
Difficulty
Fairly easy. There can be mud in spots near the running springs along the trail,
so wear boots as the mud can pull regular shoes right off. Expect to cross a small
creek or two usually there are logs or rocks to help.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but XC skiing might be difficult.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Benzonia, take US-31 south to Love Road, then left (east) to Dam Road, then
right (south) to the Homestead Dam. The trail heads west (downstream) along the north
side river.
More details
Wooded, mostly flat, unmarked trail along the Betsie River from the Homestead Dam
to US-31. At many places there are two parallel trails one along the river and
one further away, often on higher ground. During a few key times of year, youll
encounter some fisherfolk along the way.
From Leland, take M-22 five miles north. One mile past CR 626, look for a Houdek
Dunes Conservancy sign and parking lot on left (west) side of road.
More details
Stands of bright, healthy white birches many over a century old. :Lots of maples,
oaks, and pines.Some dunes here and there. Lady slippers in the spring. Observation
deck at Houdek Creek.
From the intersection of US-31 and M137 (north of Interlochen), take M-137 south
through town around 2 miles to the main Interlochen State Park entrance on the left
(east) side of the road. Once in the park, follow the signs to camp site 334. There's
a very small parking lot between sites 334 and 336. (Or you can park at the shower/bath
house over by Duck Lake and not too far away, or in the main lot and walk the paved
road over to the trail.)
More details
A Michigan Recreational Passport is required to enter since the trail is inside the
Interlochen
State Park. Some "old growth" white, red, and Norway pine and hemlock
that have never been cut, including many over 100 feet tall and one that's 150 feet
tall, are still standing along the trail. The oldest are around 300 eyar old!
Interlochen State Park is located on two fishing and swimming lakes: Green Lake and
Duck Lake. Michigan's first state park, it was established by the Michigan Legislature
in 1917 as a 200-acre public park to preserve one of the last virgin pine stands
for the people of Michigan.
There are three main access points:
1) From Mancelona, take M-66 north eight miles to Pinney Bridge Road. Then right
(east) on Pinney Bridge Road and watch for the campground and trail.
2) From Alba (about 6 miles north of Mancelona on US-131), take US-131 north about
5.5 miles north to Deadman's Hill Road. Turn left (west) and follow the signs about
two miles to the DNR parking area and Deadman's Hill Scenic Overlook.
3) From Alba (about 6 miles north of Mancelona on US-131), take Alba Road (CR 620)
1.5 miles west to Harvey Road, then right (north) 1.5 miles to the Landslide Scenic
Overlook.
More details
The Jordan Valley Pathway is a Moderate to rugged scenic hiking trail that winds
through the Mackinaw State Forest, may be poorly marked in spots, and contains several
loops of varying lengths. One loop begins at Deadman's Hill, which offers a spectacular
vista of the surrounding countryside and river floodplain. A second breathtaking
vista is the Landslide Scenic Overlook.
From the trailhead at Deadman's Overlook to Pinney Bridge Campground, it's 8 miles
in one direction (northern route) and 10 miles in the other (southern route). Jordan
River Road may be used as a shortcut for day hikers to connect one part of the trail
to the other..
You will encounter the Jordan River and its tributaries several times along the hike,
and be treated to "wistful vistas" of the Jordan River Valley. The Jordan
River is Michigan's first waterway to be officially designated as a Wild and Scenic
River.
Easy hiking in wonderful old woods along Kehl Lake.
Length
2 loops totaling 2 miles.
Hiking time
1.5 hours to cover both trails.
Difficulty
Easy.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map. Kehl Lake shows up on this map as Leg Lake.
Directions
From Northport, take M-201 north 2.5 miles to Snyder Road. Turn left (north) and
then at the "T" with Sugar Bush Road, turn right (east). Follow Sugar Bush
Road it takes a sharp left turn to the north and becomes Kehl Road. Stay on Kehl
Road. After 2 miles you'll pass Ottis Road on the right. Shortly past that, on the
left, you'll see the Conservancy sign for Kehl Lake Natural Area and the parking
area.
More details
Kehl Lake is also called Leg Lake on some maps. The Ojibway called it Midassaigan
meaning Legging Lake." Near the tip of Leelanau County peninsula, this area
combines the best of Leelanau, with everything from shoreline to towering mixed forest
to important wetland habitat. At the far north end of the trail loop is a viewing
platform that keeps you dry and suspended over a dynamic wetland ecosystem.
In Traverse City, on US-31, use the parking lot and enter the trail between Kohl's
and Bed Bath & Beyond. (Or access the park from the non-motorized trailhead along
the US-31 bike path "a great spot to pull off from the path, park your bike,
and take a walk around the stream.")
More details
A "little gem of a park" between Kohls and the Great Wolf Lodge in US-31
in Traverse City, complete with marked trails, wooden bridges, boardwalks, and the
Olseon mill pond (which is stocked with fish). There's even the old grist mill near
the pond. Kids Creek meanders through the park. On the east end there's a bridge
that connects the park directly to the west part of the Mall
Trail bike path.
Nice rolling hill trail through the woods; it goes by two small lakes and the Platte
River.
Length
5.3 miles in total:
East section (round trip) 1.8 miles on the east side of Reynolds Road.
West section (round trip) 3.5 miles on the west side of Reynolds Road
Hiking time
East section about an hour round trip.
West section 2 hours round trip.
Difficulty
East section easy.
West section moderate there are many easy to moderate hills throughout the
trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but in winter its a primarily for XC skiing snowshoers and winter hikers
should walk to the side so as to not disturb the XC ski track.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Honor, take US-31 east about 8.5 miles to Reynolds Road. Turn left (north) and
go about 4 miles. After you cross the narrow Platte River, watch for the pathways
sign, then the parking lot on right (east) side of the road.
More details
The woodsy east section winds gently along the Platte River and the Lake Ann shoreline.
The west section is a series of loops and shortcuts through wooded, rolling terrain
and goes next to Shavenaugh Lake, Marys Lake, and an upper portion of the Platte
River.
Trails through gently rolling forests, open fields, and exploring the bluff near
Lake Michigan.
Length
Perhaps 3 miles for all the trails (??)
Jackfern / Ridge Trails: 2 miles (??)
Beach Path: 0.25 miles (??)
Bluff Trail: 0.2 miles (??)
Cottonwood Path: 0.6 miles (??)
Hiking time
Perhaps 2-3 hours to do all the trails (??)
Difficulty
Easy to modearte. A few easy hills on some trails.
Located at the. Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary, a.k.a. Lake Bluff Audubon Center. From the north side of Manistee at US-31 (at the Burger King), take Lakeshore
Drive (M-110) north about 1.5 miles (going past the Orchard Beach State Park). The
Center / Sanctuary is located on the left (west) side of the road at 2890 Lakeshore
Road.
More details
There are three sets of maintained trails:
On the east side of the street there are three interconnected trails running through
gently rolling mature forests, open fields, and wetlands.
On the west side of the street and north of the Center, the Beach Path goes to
the beach on Lake Michigan. Near the beach, the Bluff Trail leads off from the Beach
Path and goes south along the Lake Michigan bluffs.
On the west side of the street and south of the Center is the Cottonwood Path and
loop.
Southern section with hiking trails: From Northport, take County Road 629 north
3 miles to Densmore Road (Airport Road), then turn left (north) and proceed a short
ways to the parking lot.
Northern section with lighthouse (at lighthouse point): is another 5 miles north
of the Southern section on County Road 629.
More details
Being a state park, a vehicle permit is required.
The Leelanau State Park is located at the tip of the little finger on the beautiful
Leelanau Peninsula the word "Leelanau" is the Native American word for
"A Land of Delight" the park has the Grand Traverse Lighthouse and Museum,
a rustic campground along Lake Michigan, two mini cabins, 8.5 miles of hiking/skiing
trails. and a picnic area. Petoskey stones can be found along the shoreline.
The park's main loop is made up of two trails, the Lake Michigan Trail and the Mud
Lake Trail and are what's shown on the park's map at the trailhead. But there are
three cutoff spurs (connecting link trails), the Maple Ridge Cutoff, Tamarack Cutoff,
and the Pot-Hole Ridge Loop, that allow you to divide the main loop into four smaller
ones. Two additional spurs lead to the beach on Lake Michigan and to an overlook.
There's a 0.4 mile loop on the east end of the main loop.
When done hiking, be sure to explore lighthouse point and the Grand Traverse Lighthouse
and Museum at the Northern section of the Park.
There are three trailheads along the trail:
1) On Cherry Bend Road.
2) On Fouch Road.
3) At 4th Street in Suttons Bay.
More details
Primarily a road bike path, this non-motorized pathway connects Traverse City and
the TART Trail at its southern end with Suttons Bay at
its northern end. The trail runs along Leelanau County's former railroad corridors,
passing through rolling hills, lush forests, picturesque orchards, peaceful meadows,
and an aquatic medley of streams, lakes, and ponds.
The trail is currently paved for about 6.5 miles on the south end (M-72 to Lakeview
Road) and 2.5 miles on the north end (Revold Road to Sutton's Bay), and unpaved (hard-packed
dirt or gravel two-track) for about 6 miles in between.
Access from either Cook Road or Skegemog Point Road
From US-31 northeast of Traverse City, take M-72 east approximately 5.5 miles
to Cook Road (called N. Broomhead on the south side of M-72). Then left (north) go
1.5 miles and watch for the trail access on the right (east) side of road.
From US-31 northeast of Traverse City, take M-72 east approximately 7 miles to
Skegemog Point Road. Then left (north) and go 0.6 miles and watch for the trail access
on the left (west) side of road.
More details
This trail was the former right-of-way for Lossie Road between Cook Road and Skegemog
Point Road. Tthe trail crosses the south end of the Battle
Creek Natural Area. There is a footbridge spanning Battle Creek creek
East of Interlochen, from the intersection of US-31 and Wildwood (called Gonder incorrectly
on some maps), go north on Wildwood about a mile and watch for parking lot on left
(west) side of road.
More details
The trail starts near the northeast corner of the parking lot. It returns in the
northwest corner. The trail goes through the woods, along Lake DuBonnet, around the
Lake
Dubonnet State Forest Campground, along the outlet for the Lake, then via a gravel
road, crosses the outlet (which is the beginning of the Platte River, by the way).
After crossing the outlet, look on the west side of the road where you'll find the
start / end point to the second part of the trail. This 3.9 mile loop takes you through
some nice rolling terrain with many pines and hardwoods, and near a few wetlands
and Lost Lake. As you can see from the trail
map, there are several two-tracks that criss-cross this area. Coming back, after
doing the northern loop and the crossing the outlet, you can immediately go up a
short feeder trail to connect to the southern loop. or go a short distance south
on the gravel road and watch on the left (east) for short feeder trail to marker
No. 2. From there go south to take the western part of the southern loop, past Christmas
Lake, and back to the parking lot.
Easy to moderate apparently some trails have some "most difficult" areas
for cross country skiers making them "moderate" for hikers. Yet the area
is rated as "easy" for mountain bikes.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes. Note that cross country skiing is the primary use in winter.
From the west east of Wellston from the intersection of M-55 and M-37, go east
on M-55 for 12 miles to Caberfae Road (a.k.a.13 Mile Rd).
From the east from Cadillac, take M-55 five miles east to Caberfae Road (a.k.a.
13 Mile Rd).
Two sets of directions to try: (I need to test these sometime)
Go north on Caberfae Road about 2 miles to the Caberfae Peaks Ski Area. The trailhead
is located just west of the ski area down 38 Road about three quarters of a mile.
Go north on Caberfae Road less that 2 miles. At the fork veer right taking 13
Mile Road north for 0.1 miles to W.38 Road. Turn left (west) and go 1.5 miles to
FR (Forest Road) 9833. Turn left (south) and proceed to the trail entrance.
More details
Primary use: mountain biking and cross country skiing. Hikers and snowshoers should
be aware of this.
At least in the winter, the trail connects to, and is accessible from, the Caberfae
Peaks Ski Area. Some trails are groomed for cross country. The varied terrain of
the MacKenzie Trail is said to be an "outstanding Nordic trail set in a beautiful
hardwood forest near Caberfae Peaks, west of Cadillac" and a fantastic trail
system for a family outing.
The trail is marked with blue diamond-shaped blazes. There are signs at each junction
with a map.
Trail
& road map #1 and Trail &
road map #2 See the red-dashed trail on these maps. The solid black line is
the North Country Trail, if needed. Trail map #3 See the green trail
on this map. The purple trail is the North Country Trail, if needed.
General idea
Scenic woodsy and hilly trail along the east side of the Manistee River.
There are a variety of places to access this trail along the east side of the
river, but there are also three trailheads:
Seaton
Creek Campground From Mesick, take M-37 south about 6 miles to 26 Road
(near Yuma). Turn right (west) and go 1.7 miles to O'Rourke Drive (a.k.a. S. Hodenpyl
Road on some maps). Turn right and go northwest 1.3 miles to Forest Road 5993 (a.k.a.
McClush Road on some maps). Turn right and go 0.4 miles to the campground. There
is a day-use parking fee.
Upper River Road near the suspension footbridge, close to the Hodenpyl
Dam. If you are coming from the west, this access is much easier than the Seaton
Creek Campground trailhead, and closer to the river. From the Copemish, take M-115
southeast 3 miles to Marilla Road. Turn right (south) and go about 4.5 miles to Beers
Road. Turn left (east) and go 2.8 miles to the Hodenpyl Dam access road on right
at bottom of the hill (you'll see the sign for Hodenpyl Dam and Consumer Energy).
Turn right (south) and go 0.5 miles to Upper River Road, then west about 0.3 miles.
There a few small areas to park off the road. The best place is where the power lines
cross the road. A trail to the bridge leads off of this parking area. (If you have
to, you can park at the Hodenpyl Dam parking lot then walk back to this point. There
is a pit toilet there, too.). Access the trail via the suspension footbridge
(here's an aerial
view and here's
a photo) that crosses the river here. It sometime hard to see through the woods
just walk to the river and you'll see it. (Note: this is the the largest wooden
suspension bridge in Lower Michigan and is known as "The Little Mac.")
If you will be connecting to the North Country Trail, in the directions above,
note that you went by two accesses to it: 1) on the south side of Beers Road before
coming down the hill, 2) on the Hodenpyl Dam access road on the right (west) just
after you turned on to it. See North Country Trail for
more details.
Red Bridge Directly east of Brethren where Coates Highway crosses the
Manistee River. From the Copemish, take M-115 southeast 3 miles to Marilla Road.
Turn right (south) and go about 13 miles to Coates Highway. Turn left (east) and
go just under 3 miles to the Red Bridge parking lot on the right (south) side of
the road. The trail starts on the east side of the river, on the north side of the
road. (There is some parking just off the road on the east side of the river.) At
the Red Bridge parking lot is potable water and a pit toilet.
If you will be connecting to the North Country Trail, in the directions above,
note that you went by the access to it: west of Red Bridge on the north side of Coates
Highway. See North Country Trail for more details.
More details
This scenic foot path meanders along the east side of the Manistee River between
the Hodenpyl Dam (near Mesick) and Red Bridge (at Coates Highway).
The trail stays close to the river (or outside east bows) the whole time, traverses
several wetlands, and there are bridges crossing two creeks. There are several small
waterfalls alone the way, and a "larger" waterfall near the northern end
of the trail is very popular with many hikers. Several observation sites along the
trail provide hikers with views of the Manistee River and surrounding area. There
are several dispersed campsites along the trail.
And this trail connects to the North Country Trail (on the ridge on the west side
of the river) for a nice 23 mile backpacking loop. Connection points are roughly
the suspension
footbridge on the north end and Red Bridge at the south end.
Upper River Road on the west side of the river is a good shuttle road, if needed.
One can also user Beers / Marilla Road / Coates Highway as a paved shuttle route
(longer but takes about the same travel time).
There are many access points along River Street in downtown Manistee A common access
point on the east end is from the parking lot behind the House of Flavors restaurant,
at River Street and US-31. A common access point on the west end is on the south
side of the river channel near Lake Michigan at First Street Beach.
More details
This urban pathway (boardwalk / sidewalk) runs along the south side of the Manistee
River behind River Street's quaint Victorian shops in the downtown area and goes
from just east of US-31 all the way to the Lake Michigan beach, where the river empties
into the lake. Extend your "trip" if you like and walk the south pier to
the beacon on Lake Michigan.
Along the way are mile markers, benches, picnic areas, interpretive signs, private
docks, drawbridges, charter fishing docks, nearby businesses, and boats large and
small traveling the river. There are lights at the eastern section, so you could
easily stroll the downtown sections after dark on a summer evening.
The Riverwalk now features mileage markers every tenth mile, so fitness walkers can
gauge their distance. The Manistee County Historical Society also has markers posted
along the way, denoting sites of importance an interest from the area's golden era
of logging.
From Traverse City, take Garfield Road south around 8 miles (or about 2 miles past
River Road) to the small village of Mayfield and turn right (west) on Mill Street.
Go two blocks to the entrance to the park and a small parking lot.
More details
This park is the Mayfield Historic Mill Site with a former mill pond that's part
of Swainston Creek, a tributary of the Boardman River. The loop trail circles the
pond and is wooded much of the way. The west portion of the loop rises over 100 feet
above the pond and offers a nice view of the area. To get up the hill, it's best
to go counter-clockwise after crossing the creek it uses a gradual uphill old logging
road. The southern end of the loop has a moderately steep path with some stairs to
descend.
Mostly woodsy trail behind Home Depot and Walmart, then and down along Miller Creek.
Length
Around 2 miles of trails in several loops.
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Easy to moderate. Most of the trail is flat, but there's a short mild hill as you
go from being just behind the shopping area down to the Miller Creek area.
In Traverse City, the trail system is accessed via a small parking area behind the
Office Depot on South Airport Road. There is also a trailhead behind Borders in the
same shopping center, and maybe the Sabin Elementary School on Cass Road. See the
trail map for a better idea.
More details
The trails here passes through a former red pine plantation, takes boardwalks over
a cedar swamp, skirts the edges of open meadows behind the stores, apartments, and
homes of the G.T. Crossings shopping area, and follows Miller Creek, a tributary
of the Boardman River. Lots of dog walkers.
From Lake City take M-66 north approximately 4 miles to Missaukee Mountain Road,
then turn left (west) and go about 0.6 miles to Missaukee Mountain.
More details
The cross-country ski trails at Missaukee Mountain are open for walking during the
off-season. In the winter this area is apprently only open weekends & school
holidays. "From the geocaching.com
Web site "The trail begins from the parking lot and (goes) behind the
ski lodge, it has markers along the trail so avoid the temptation to bushwhack."
There are two access points:
1) Behind the Carl T. Johnson Hunting & Fishing Center, part of Mitchell
State Park near Cadillac on M-115 at the west end of Lake Cadillac.
2) At the west end of Kenwood Heritage Park (which is NE of Mitchell
State Park on Lake Cadillac).
More details
A woodchip path with bridges and boardwalks around the wetland areas near the NW
corner of Lake Cadillac. A vehicle permit is required to park at the trail.
The pathway is 13 miles SE of Traverse City with several access points such as the
trailhead Ranch Rudolph Road and intersections with Rennie Lake Road.
Directions to the trailhead: south of Traverse City, from the intersection of Garfield
Road and Hammond Road, take Garfield south about 5.3 miles to Hobbs Highway, (this
is just before Garfield drops into the Boardman River valley), then left (east) about
2 miles to Ranch Rudolph Road. Veer to the right on to Ranch Rudolph Road, taking
it east about 2.8 miles (just east of Rennie Lake Road) to the trailhead on the left
(north) side of the road.
More details
This area is covered with beautiful hardwoods. Trails wander past small lakes (the
Muncie Lakes system) and pass in and out of the Boardman River Valley, and at times
skirt the banks of the Boardman River with overlooks of the Boardman River Valley.
The North Country Trail uses several of the trails here..
NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL (NCT) (from south to north through Northwestern Michigan)
Michigan Overview Map - Note: this map and the three below are special Google
mapsand take a few moments for these to completely load, you can zoom in
and out and move about. There are terrain, road map, aerial views, and more.
Grand
Traverse Hiking Club section map (Google map) - 100.5 miles. North Country Trail
section in northern Michigan in Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Wexford and Manistee Counties
including parts of the Pere Marquette State Forest. They maintain the trail from
Marilla Junction near the Hodenpyl Dam to Starvation Lake Road (northeast of Kalkaska.
The trail uses local DNRE areas including Muncie Lakes Pathway and Sand Lakes Quiet
Area. Brochures and
maps for the GTHC section.
MI-05,
Freesoil Trailhead to M-186, 81.4 miles - Hikers get their first glimpse of the Northwoods
in the Manistee National Forest. Within Manistee National Forest, enjoy sandy soils
that support a pine-hardwood forest and great hiking along the Manistee River Trail,
which forms a great loop hike opportunity. The NCT leaves the Manistee National Forest
near the Hodenpyl Dam Pond which features a fabulous new (2009) trail along the Hodenpyl
Dam Pond and Manistee River.
MI-06,
Cedar Creek Road to Charlevoix County, 81.2 miles - Continuing south of Traverse
City to Kalkaska the NCT is routed through state forest land (the Pere Maruette SF)
which offer a number of year round recreation opportunities. The next jewel along
the NCT is the Jordan Valley Pathway, which offers a scenic loop hike near Alba.
MORE DETAILS:
Please SEE
THIS PAGE for trail notes, directions, and details for some segments of the Michigan
NCT. See at least items 11 thorugh 41.
But especially, SEE BELOW for trail details, maps,
Web pages, directions and notes for many segments of the Michigan NCT.
General idea
The North Country National Scenic Trail is 4600 miles long across seven states
from New York to North Dakota. There are many sections throughout Michigan. This
guide covers only 3 sections in northwestern lower Michigan areas generally within
1.5 hours of Traverse City. From the North
Country Trail Association Web site about the Trail in Michigan:
"Hikers get their first glimpse of the Northwoods in the Manistee National
Forest. Within Manistee National Forest, enjoy sandy soils that support a pine-hardwood
forest and great hiking along the Manistee River Trail, which forms a great loop
hike opportunity. The NCT leaves the Manistee National Forest near the Hodenpyl Dam
Pond which features a fabulous new (2009) trail along the Hodenpyl Dam Pond and Manistee
River. Continuing south of Traverse City to Kalkaska the NCT is routed through state
forest land (the Pere Maruette SF) which offer a number of year round recreation
opportunities. The next jewel along the NCT is the Jordan Valley Pathway, which offers
a scenic loop hike near Alba. From here the trail heads towards Petoskey through
the Mackinaw State Forest. North of Petoskey wonderful hiking opportunities exist
in Wilderness State Park, where the trail follows the Lake Michigan shoreline. As
one leaves Wilderness State Park and heads towards Mackinaw City the lights of Mackinaw
Bridge visible become visible."
Length
Varies with route taken.
Hiking time
Varies with route taken.
Difficulty
Varies from easy to difficult. Many easy to moderate hiles, with a view more difficult
hills now and then.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes, but only on certain sections and segments..
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
North Country
Trail Segments (from south to north)
Near White Cloud. Trail crosses Bigelow Creek and provides access to Coolbough Nature
Preserve. A spur trail will take visitors to Twinwood Campground.
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes NOT allowed.
Near White Cloud. Heavily wooded red pine area with several stream crossings. A steel
girder bridge will take hikers across the White River.
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes NOT allowed.
Near White Cloud. Trail crosses Cole Creek before traversing through hills. As the
trail travels north the hills will give way to a marshy area and trail crosses several
roads. North of Benton Lake the trail crosses Bear Creek.
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes are allowed.
Nichols Lake North Trailhead to 76th Street Trailhead
Near Baldwin. Trail pass Stiles Swamp as you leave the Nichols Lake area before heading
into the Sterling Marsh area, where portions of the trail have been raised to prevent
resource damage. Trail travels towards and along the Pere Marquette National Scenic
River for several miles. The trail gets progressively hilly as it heads north. Heavily
wooded red pine area with several stream crossings near 76th Street Trailhead.
For directions, see Web pages given.
The 78 miles from 96th Street to the Marilla Trailhead (at Beers Road
taking the north spur from the Marilla Junction) is the Spirit
of the Woods chapter section of the trail.
Mountain bikes NOT allowed.
Near Baldwin. Trail travels toward and along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River.
The terrain gets progressively hilly as the trail heads to Bowman Bridge Campground
and River Access. Glacial depressions are found in this area and provide homes for
many species of wildlife.
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes NOT allowed.
Near Baldwin. Trail goes through the Bowman Lake Semi-Primitive Nonmotorized Area,
and travels along the Pere Marquette National Scenic River near Sulak and Upper Branch
Bridge river access sites, until crossing US-10, then arrives at the Timber Creek
Trailhead.
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes are allowed from the Bowman Lake trailhead to M-55.
Near Baldwin and Freesoil. Trail passes through Ward Hills, past McCarthy Lake, and
through very steeply hilled terrain.
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes are allowed. The portion of trail running from Timber Creek
Trailhead to the Manistee River is the most advanced riding on this portion of the
trail for mountain bikes.
Near Manistee, Freesoil and Wellston. The trail traverses the Udell Hills. After
the trail crosses the Little Manistee River, the terrain changes from mixed hardwoods
to wetlands. The trail heading north was formerly a narrow gauge railroad that was
elevated above the wetlands in the early 1900's by lumberjacks. The trail winds through
the wetlands and swamp in this section. However, about 3.5 miles north of the trailhead
there's boardwalk through the wetland areas.
There is no connector to the Big "M" cross country ski
trail, however the two trails do cross at several points
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes NOT allowed from M-55 to Udell Trailhead.
Near Manistee, Wellston, and Brethren. Trail traverse many hills, particularly in
the Dilling Road (Sawdust Hole, Tippy Dam) area. Order of things: Udell Trailhead
to Highbridge Rd. to Dilling Rd to Coates Highway (Upper River Trailhead / Red Bridge).
For directions, see Web pages given.
Mountain bikes NOT allowed between the Udell trailhead and Dilling Road.
Mountain bikes are allowed from the Dilling Road to the Marilla Trailhead.
The Upper River Road Trailhead is located just north of Coates Highway and
west of Upper River Road. From the trailhead one can access the Manistee
River Trail by taking Coates Highway a short ways to the east across Red Bridge
over the Manistee River.
The powerline here is a snowmobile trail during the winter months.
Upper River Road, by the way, is a gravel road which parallels the NCT and Manistee
River on the west side of the river. It's nice "shuttle route" with hiking
this section of the PCT onew-ay, doing the Manistee
River Trail (MRT), or canoeing / kayaking this section of the river. (One can
also use Beers / Marilla Rd / Coates Hwy as a paved shuttle route (it's a longer
distance, but it's paved and takes about the same travel time).
The Marilla Trailhead is the northen most access to the trail on the Huron-Manistee
National Forests. Its accessed from Beers Road, about 2.5 miles east of Marilla (and
Marilla Road). There is ample parking (fee) and a pit toilet.
North of Coates Highway, the trail climbs up a hill to a flat, forested area. Trail
follows the ridge high above the Manistee River offering scenic views of the river
valley. The only water source is at Eddington Creek Crossing, where there's a treated
wood bridge, 1.5 miles south of Marilla Trailhead.
0.4 miles north of Eddington Creek and 1.1 miles south of the Marilla Trailhead is
a fork in the trail which the Grand Traverse Hiking Club has named Marilla Junction.
From Marilla Junction, the portion of the trail leading north is the North
Country Trail portion, goes high above the Manistee River with a bench along the
way and impressive views of the river and Hodenpyl Dam Pond, and leads to the Marilla
Trailhead.
From Marilla Junction, the portion of the trail leading northeast is a
"connector" which follows an old rail grade downhill for 1.3 miles, connecting
to the small Hodenpyl Dam Road trail access point. (Hodenpyl Dam Road leads a short
way to the Hodenpyl Dam, in case you were wondereing.)
The 78 miles from 96th Street to the Marilla Trailhead (at Beers
Road taknig the north spur from the Marilla Junction) is the Spirit
of the Woods chapter section of the trail.
The 95 miles from the Marilla Junction to Starvation Lake Road northeast
of Kalkaska is the Grand Traverse
Hiking Club section of the trail..
For detailed directions, see Web pages given.
A 23-mile loop: (connecting the NCT and MRT)
A 23-mile loop trail (one of the best backpacking loops in the state) is formed
by combining this segment of the North Country Trail (NCT) with the Manistee
River Trail (MRT) along the Manistee River. The loop trail can be accessed from
the Marilla Trailhead and Upper Branch Trailhead for the North Country Trail and
the Red Bridge (at Coates Highway, east side of river) and Seaton Creek access points
for the Manistee River Trail.
Going north on the NCT and taking the northeast-going connector from Marilla Junction,
less than a half mile past Marilla Junction, watch for a sharp turn downhill to the
right, blazed with white. This takes you across Upper River Road to the "Litte
Mac" suspension bridge (the 2nd largest in Michigan) over the Manistee River
to the the Manistee River Trail on the east bank
of the Manistee River.
On the south end, the two trails are joined by Red Bridge, where Coates Highway crosses
the Manistee River.
Tthe NCT (west side) offers much more vertical (ups and dowsn) than the Manistee
River Trail (east site) for those seeking a good workout.
Mountain bikes are allowed from Upper River Road Trailhead past the Marilla
Junction and on to the Marilla Trailhead
Mountain bikes are NOT on the 1.3 mile connector portion of the trail from
Marilla Junction to the Hodenpyl Road trail access.
A nice loop if you just want a picturesque short hike. You'll make a big triangle
with the North County Trail, the North County connector trail, and Beers Road.
You can start this loop in two places (and go in either direction):
1. Marilla Trailhead (with parking area and pit toilet) on the south side
of Beers Road, about 2.5 miles east of Marilla Road. Then make the big triangle...
Take the North County Trail south 1.1 miles to the Marilla Junction
anintersection with NCT connector trail a wider trail following an old
railroad bed heading gently downhill.
Follow the connector trail northeast 1.3 miles to the Hodenpyl Dam Road trail
access just south of Beers Road.
Walk 350 feet north on Hodenpyl Dam Road to Beers Road, then take it west 0.6
miles uphill back to the Marilla Trailhead parking lot.
Of course you can do this in reverse order, if you like!
2.Hodenpyl Dam Road On Beers Road about 3 miles west of Marilla
Road on you'll find Hodenpyl Dam Road. Turn right and 350' on the right is a sign
for the North County Trail (NCT). This is the Hodenpyl Dam Road trail access for
the NCT. Park there. Road
Map.
The trail here is the North County connector trail it connects to the main portion
of the trail (up on the west ridge above the Manistee River) with the east-going
portion of the trail.
If you want a steady uphill climb most of the way:
Take the North County connector trail first go 1.3 miles southwest up to the
North County Trail at Marilla Junction.
Turn north on the NCT and take it 1.1 miles, past the trailhead and out to Beers
Road.
Go east 0.6 miles down Beers Road to Hodenpyl Dam Road.
Go south 350 feet to your car at the Hodenpyl Dam trail access point.
If you want to get the uphill aspect of the trip out of the way first and then
be able walk downhill for the rest (and majority) of the trip:
Walk west 0.6 miles on Beers Road uphill to the Marilla Trailhead.
Take the North County Trail south 1.1 miles to the Marilla Junction
an intersection with the NCT connector trail a wider trail following an old railroad
bed heading gently downhill.
Follow the connector trail northeast 1.3 miles to the Hodenpyl Dam Road trail
access point.
The Hodenpyl Dam Road Trail Access point has a kiosk and tiny parking lot.
It's 350' south of Beers Road on Hodenpyl Dam Road.
The M-115 Crossing is one mile west of Mesick. Across the bridgeto the east
is Veterans Park which has a water pump, pit toilet, parking, and access to Manistee
River. Mesick is a good opportunity for food and services.
Note: There is also access to Mesick access from Glengary, 4 miles further down the
trail, and the town is a one mile area. Mesick is a great trail town, and is the
last source of food and services for 35 trail miles (where access to Kingsley is
a 6 mile road walk).
Here the trail is a flat, scenic hike along the Hodenpyl Pond (with some diversions
nearer the road), through pine plantations, skirting wetlands, and peninsulas. A
little over half way along is the Northern Exposure Trailhead with ample parking.
The M-115 Crossing is one mile west of Mesick. Across the bridge is Veterans
Park which has a water pump, pit toilet, parking, and access to Manistee River. Mesick
is a good opportunity for food and services.
After crossing M-115, the trail rises to the bluff along the Manistee River with
fine views. Later the trail dips and climbs moderately, leaves the river for a spell
and rejoins it just south of the village of Glengary, on No 11 Road. After a 0.3
mi road walk south crossing the Manistee River, the trail enters the woods on the
left and then emerges onto M-37 just south of Sherman.
Note: There is no food in Sherman. Mesick is about 1 mile south of the trail at Glengary
via 11 Road (Eugenee Street in town). And at M-37 a restaurant and 2 gas stations
are 1 mile south of the trail, also.
Mesick is a great trail town, and is the last source of food and services for 35
trail miles (where access to Kingsley is a 6 mile road walk).
The M-37 Crossing is just south of Sherman and north of Mesick about a mile.
The Baxter Bridge is at 29 1/2 Road (accessed by 31 Road south of the river)
crosses the Manistee River (east of Mesick, west of Manton). Parking is available
at the river access just north of the bridge. The state forest campground is on the
left (east) past (south of) the bridge. The west part trail is north of the bridge
on the west side of the road. The trailhead is not obvious. There is a boat launch
at the bridge on the west side of the road. If you walk north up the road for a hundred
yards or so, you will see the trail marker below and to the west side of the road.
The trail goes into the forest just before the forest ends at an open field. If you
are walking beside that open field, you've gone too far.
The Grand Traverse Hiking Club say this is the most scenic parts of the trail in
their section.The trail crosses Wheeler and Anderson Creeks and follows the Manistee
River for much of the way and is often high above it, giving you panoramic views
of the river and its valley. About 11 miles into the hike are the "High Bank
Rollways" which has a beautiful panoramic view and is accessible to vehicles.
The DNR has built a viewing platform and parking area. It is a very popular place,
especially for leaf peekers in the fall.
This segment is in between M-37 and the Baxter Bridge.
The M-37 Crossing is just south of Sherman and north of Mesick about a mile.
Here the trail begins as a road walk north along M-37 and it crosses the Manistee
River again. Turn right (east) on No 12 Road, which is paved at frist, then becomes
a narrow "seasonal road" (a two-track when snow is not plowed). At the
interection of 12 Road with 15 Road is limited parking (and no parking after
snow falls when this is a snowmobile trail).
This segment is in between M-37 and the Baxter Bridge.
At the interection of 12 Road with 15 Road is limited parking (and no parking
after snow falls when this is a snowmobile trail).
Trail is hilly and scenic with some clay as it heads east on state land along a series
of ridges and lowlands, crossing several creeks, and a deep ravine and with many
nice overlooks. After 2 miles, across a ravine, theres a bench with view. In another
mile the trail emerges onto No.17 Road (19 Road south of the river), just north of
the Harvey Bridge over the Manistee River.
This segment is in between M-37 and the Baxter Bridge.
Where No.17 Road (19 Road south of the river), crosses over the Manistee River is
the old iron Harvey Bridge (where there is parking, pit toilet, and boat landing).
The NCT crosses 17 Road just north of the Harvey Bridge. The trail winds through
the forest with some high bank overlooks, interspersed with road. Walk where the
road is close to the river. Soon the trail climbs to a ridge over the river, with
more high bank overlooks. Anderson Creek (a good water source (be sure to treat all
water)).. After wandering along the river, the trail gains more elevation and after
more scenic vistas arrives at the overlook of the High Banks Rollway.
The High Banks Rollway is accesseible by car off of No. 4 Road and some sandy
two-tracks. Directions from Buckley: At the light in Buckley go south 0.5 miles on
First Street the east 4.8 miles on No. 4 Road. Where the paved road swings northeast,
veer off the road going straigt and follow the gravel road. It goes east 0.3 miles
the turns south, the east again (stay on the most traveled road), ending up after
1.4 miles at a parking lot. A short walk brings you to the NCT and the overlook.
This segment is in between M-37 and the Baxter Bridge.
The High Banks Rollway is accesseible by car off of No. 4 Road and some sandy
two-tracks. Directions from Buckley: At the light in Buckley go south 0.5 miles on
First Street the east 4.8 miles on No. 4 Road. Where the paved road swings northeast,
veer off the road going straigt and follow the gravel road. It goes east 0.3 miles
the turns south, the east again (stay on the most traveled road), ending up after
1.4 miles at a parking lot. A short walk brings you to the NCT and the overlook.
The Baxter Bridge is at 29 1/2 Road (accessed by 31 Road south of the river)
crosses the Manistee River (east of Mesick, west of Manton). Parking is available
at the river access just north of the bridge. The state forest campground is on the
left (east) past (south of) the bridge. The west part trail is north of the bridge
on the west side of the road. The trailhead is not obvious. There is a boat launch
at the bridge on the west side of the road. If you walk north up the road for a hundred
yards or so, you will see the trail marker below and to the west side of the road.
The trail goes into the forest just before the forest ends at an open field. If you
are walking beside that open field, you've gone too far.
The trail continues east along high bank ridge with views of the Manistee River valley,
then turns northeast and drops into a beautiful valley of hardwoods. It then winds
eastward with continual drops in elevation, eventually crossing a footbridge over
a nice stream. Here you are surrounded by marvelous cedars. The trail continues east,
climbing to an overlook before passing through a stand of beech. Trail emerges onto
No. 29 1/2 Road just north of the Baxter Bridge.
The Baxter Bridge is at 29 1/2 Road (accessed by 31 Road south of the river) crosses
the Manistee River (east of Mesick, west of Manton). Parking is available at the
river access boat launch just north of the bridge. There is a state forest campground
on the east side of the road south of the bridge.
The trail walks 29 1/2 Road 1.1 miles north to County Line Road, thne east on County
Line Road, then north on Summit City Road to the intersection with Dell Road.
Thers is road access to Kingsley 6 miles away for services and supplies. Go 5 miles
north on Summit City Road, the west 1 miles on M-113. Grocery, restaurant, hardware,
laundry.
This is a little known stretch of trail compared with the High Bank Rollways segment
to the west, but perhaps equally as beautiful. This part of the trail continues along
the north side of the Manistee River.
From the intersection County Line Road and Dell Road, the trail starts following
a two-track fire lane to the south, through second growth forest and pine plantation,
then turns east and follows the Manistee River along the north bank, crossing a couple
of bridges, and climbs to a ridge. At the benches and platform there is a road access
via Walton and Townline Roads. As the trail approaches the Two Bridges Trailhead
there is a view of the old railway trestle. The Two BridgesTrailhead
is a very pleasant place, good water source, with no road access. A one mile spur
trail to the south takes you to the Old US-131 State Forest Campground.
Directions the Old US-131 State Forest Campground: From the junction of M113
and US-131 southwest of Fife Lake, drive 0.9 miles south on US131, turn right at
sign for camping / State Forest Campground, and then immediately left, now heading
south on Old 131. Continue another 1.7 miles. Turn right into SFCG, continue straight
for 0.4 to the trailhead with parking. Admire the "historic" wooden trail
map, showing the NCT as it was a decade ago. The 1 mile spur trail (to the north)
accesses the NCT near the two bridges. While in the area, do walk on the road (before
the turn into the campground) to check out the pedestrian / snowmobile bridge across
the Manistee River.
Take the 1 mile spur trail (to the north) to access the NCT near the two bridges.
The trail leaves Manistee River and heads north with flat, easy miles. You'll cross
No. 2 Road, a rail-road track, and M-113. At the two-track Sparling Road, a spur
trail takes you east 2.7 miles into Fife Lake Village a pleasant community with
all the services a hiker needs. Take Sparling Road, 4th & Pierce Streets to State
Stree (the main drag). Turn right for the main part of town.
From Sparling Road the trail continues north. At Mayfield Road there
is limited parking along the dirt roads
To drive to the Fife Lake trail access, from M-186 and US-131 intersection
west of Fife Lake, go south 0.5 miles to Sparling Rd, then turn right and go for
1.5 miles.
After some dirt road walking, the trail now heads into the Boardman River valley,
following 22 Creek and the Valley of the Giants, with huge old growth trees. It crosses
some flatlands to the Boardman River, emerging onto Brown Bridge Road. Going north,
over the river, the trail re-enters the woods on left just past the entrance to Schecks
Place SFCG. The trail goes up the hill, across Ranch Rudolph Road to Muncie Lake
Trailhead. The hike from Schecks Place to 22 Creek is a favorite day hike, says
the Grand Traverse Hiking Club.
At 3.3 miles in at Scharmen Road, the locals park here for a day hike to the Valley
of Giants.
Driving directions to the Mayfield Road crossing (where there is limited parking
along the dirt roads):
From the intersection of Garfield and Hammond south of Traverse City, go 14.7
miles following Hammond east to High Lake Road, then to Supply Road, then to Fife
Lake Road. Here, turn right (south) and go 2 miles to Mayfield Road, turn right (west)
and go 2 miles to NCT crossing.
From Fife Lake, at US-131 & M-186 go northeast on US-131 for .8 miles, turn
left (north) on Fife Lake Road and go 2.8 miles, then turn left (west) on Mayfield
Road and go 2 miles to NCT crossing.
The trail uses Muncie Lakes Pathway's network
of trails. Follow Muncie Lakes #1,2,3,4,5,7, and 8, through rolling mixed woods.
After the #8 sign, at 0.5 miles the trail leaves the Muncie path and turns north
(left), drops into a valley, up and over to Dollar Lake (good swimming). Past Dollar
Lake the trail continues north, then makes a sharp right turn to the Dollar Lake
Trailhead (at Supply Road around 0.3 miles west of Williamsburg Road) with a
large parking lot.
Driving directions to Muncie Lakes Pathway: From the intersection of Garfield
and Hammond south of Traverse City, follow Garfield south. At the Ranch Rudolf sign
turn left (east) onto Hobbs Roadd (just before Garfield drops to the Boardman River
valley). After 0.7 miles bear left on Hobbs up the hill. In about a mile bear right
onto Ranch Rudolf Road. The Muncie Lakes Pathway and Trailhead is 2.8
miles ahead on left.
This slightly rolling section features the North Branch of the Boardman River, then
heads north, crossing Broomhead Road at mile 3.1 (a favorite hike/snowshoe spot westbound
along river and there is limited parking) and Guernsey Lake Road and into the Sand Lakes Quiet Area with its web of trails. At #3
marker there is a spur trail 0.9 miles to the Sand Lakes Trailhead at Broomhead
Road. Within Sand Lakes, the maps at each marker post show the NCT. This area is
very popular for hiking and camping in summer, and skiing & snowshoeing in winter.
Driving directions to Dollar Lake Trailhead: From Three Mile Road and Hammond
Road SE of Traverse City, go east on Hammond, curve right (south) on High Lake Road,
curve left (east) on to Supply Road and go a totla of 8.5 miles. There's a large
sandy parking lot on south side of the road between Woodland School and Williamsburg
Road.
From the Sand Lakes Trailhead in the the Sand
Lakes Quiet Area, take the white-blazed spur trail to marker #3, where you pick
up the NCT. Go east. Follow #5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13. Trail goes through rolling
woods, swings south towards marker #13, and soon after a 0.2 mi spur trail (with
white blazes) goes into campsite area of Guernsey Lake SFCG.. At #14, another spur
trail (with white blazes) goes 0.3 mi to the parking area across the entry road,
and the NCT continues east.
Driving directions to the Sand Lakes Trailhead: From Traverse City, go northeast
on US-31 to M-72 in Acme, east on M-72 to Broomhead Road, then right (south) 3.5
miles (and which takes a sharp left/right jog along the way ) to the signed large
parking lot.
Connect with NCT by the spur, then proceed right (east). Trail crosses Boardman
River Road, angles past Island Lake in woods, crossing a meadow to Island Lake Road
crossing, then into woods for a pleasant walk to Smith Lake Road, and then east along
Smith Lake, and continuing on two-tracks into Kalkaska. The Kalkaska Kaliseum
is a recreational complex) on west edge of town. Kalkaska has all services except
an outfitter.
Driving directions to the Guernsey Lake Trailhead:
From Sand Lakes Parking (#14), drive just south on Broomhead Road, go left (east)
3.3 miles on Sand Lakes Road , right (south) 1 mile on Guernsey Lake Road.
From Kalkaska, drive south on US-131 to Island Lake Roadd, right (west) 6.9 miles
to Guernsey Lake Road, then left (south) 1 mile to the SFCG on right (west).
There's a parking lot on GL SFCG entry road 0.1 miles on left (south) near white-blazed
spur trail marked #15.
Tthe trail heads east on paved pathway. Then by road, cross Birch to follow Division,
left on Walnut, right on Norway, left on Cedar (US-131) to M-72, crossing US-131
at the light. Follow CR612 for 0.4 miles, turn left onto Shady Lane, bear right after
the subdivision, the trail skirts the north side of Blue Lake, then turns left at
Log Lake Park Campground (on Log Lake Road).
Location of the Kalkaska Kaliseum: 1900 Fairgrounds Road NW. This is 0.5 miles
west of the US-131/M-72 intersection in Kalkaska, and .2 miles south on Fairgrounds
Road.
Turn right (north) from Log Lake Campground gate, follow dirt road which bends
right (east). After 0.4 miles, turn left (north) onto a small dirt unnamed road which
goes through flat, cleared land and past an oil well. When the road bends right (east),
the NCT continues straight heading north to the Shore-to-Shore
Trail, and east crossing Wheeler Lake Road. The trail follows the power line
to the dirt State Road. Turn right (east) on State and go 0.2 miles to a vehicle
barrier. After this gate, NCT follows a horse trail, passes another gate and continues
east on State Road. After crossing Darragh Road, the road walk continues east on
paved CR612, past Manistee Lake to Sunset Trail Road.
Driving directions to Log Lake Campground: From intersection of M-72 and US-131,
drive east 1.3 miles on CR612 to E. Log Lake Road, turn left (north) and go 0.3 miles
to Log Lake Campground on the lake.
Trail parallels the road for 2 miles, where a short spur heads west to Pickerel Lake
State Forest Campground. It swings east, crossing Kenel Road before turning north
to cross Papoose Lake and Indian Lake Roads, and goes through a hilly forested section
past several small lakes and ponds to Starvation Lake Road. There is limited
parking 0.1 mile east on Starvation Lake Road along a dirt side road.
Driving directions to Sunset Trail Road Trailhead: From intersection of M-72
and US-131 in Kalkaska, drive east on CR612 about 6 miles, then left (north) 2 miles
on Darragh Road, then right (east) for 4 miles, past Manistee Lake. The trailhead
is on left just past Sunset Trail. There is limited parking on dirt road just past
(east) of where NCT leaves the road heading left (north).
The 95 miles from Marilla Junction to Starvation Lake Road is the Grand Traverse Hiking Club section
of the trail.
The NCT crosses Starvation Lake Road just a little east of Starvation Lake. Going
north you hike through a nice stand of pine trees planted by the CCC Camps. Emerging
from the pines you cross a road and go through small trees and brush and enter a
section of sumac, rasberry bushes. and ferns that grow as high as your chest. The
adopter for that section has named it the "deadly meadow". There are a
few carsonite markers along the trail where there were no trees to blaze. At the
northern end of this section you enter into a hardwood forest and walk on a two-track
for approximately 0.75 miles to C-38 (Mancelona Road). Note on your map, that Sand
Lake is in this section. There are plans to make a white-blazed side-trail to the
lake, so watch for it in the future.
The NCT trail crosses C-38 (Mancelona Road) about 1 mile east of Cinder Hill Road
just before C-38 curves north. It is a nice walk through hardwood forests and over
the ridge of hills that you can see to the east as you drive on US-131. You can park
off road at either end of this section.
The trail crosses US-131 and continues on an old sandy dirt road, passing by private
lands on either side. The road undergoes a name change at this point. South of US-131
it is Corey Road, but north of US-131 it is Harvey Road. The road goes up a hill
and passes through a pleasant stand of tall hardwoods. Going downhill the trail crosses
Alba Road (CR620) heading toward Landslide Lookout, a scenic overlook of the Jordan
Valley.
The trail crosses Alba Road (CR620) about a mile west of the small town of Alba.
(If you are a long distance hiker and need supplies, a little south of the corner
of Alba Road and US-131 there is a party store and small campground with showers
at the gas station.) Harvey Road going to the Landslide Lookout is a small narrow
dirt road that ends at the Lookout. About 1/3 mile before that the trail takes to
the woods on the left and follows the old railroad grade. The trail comes out by
the outdoor toilet in the parking lot. Follow the blue blazes to one of the most
awsome vistas of the valley. There is a bench where you can park your weary bones
for a short time before continuing the adventure in the Jordan Valley.
This section goes through the famous Jordan Valley. The best places to park if you
want to hike this section are at Landslide Lookout, Deadman's Hill, or M-32 trailhead
parking lot. From Harvey Road to Landslide Lookout, the trail is mostly on dirt roads.
The trail going through the valley is hilly and scenic. There are several streams
to walk beside and cross over. Pinny Bridge Campground is a walk-in campground with
pump water and an outdoor privy. Pinny Bridge is the only place people are allowed
to camp in the valley. From the campground the trail follows the Jordan River going
in an easterly direction. It passes at the foot of Deadman's Hill and continues north
to O'Brien's Pond and Warner Creek. Following an old railroad grade, it ends up at
the M-32 Trailhead parking lot.
The Jordan Valley watershed of the Jordan River that flows into the city of
East Jordan.
The river is completely formed in the valley, starting as a small stream you can
step across at the northeast end of the valley, and growing to a wide deep river
that has been designated a National Scenic River. The North Country Trail( NCT) takes
you across several of the beautiful streams that feed the river. There are more streams
on the east side of the Jordan Valley Pathway
if you want to do the loop trail.
No bicycling is allowed on these trails in the Jordan River Valley.
The 19-mile loop:
The Jordan Valley Pathway is an 19 mile loop trail that circles the valley.
The NCT uses the westerly side of the loop. The Jordan Valley Pathway is marked with
blue circles and the NCT is marked with rectangles. Where the trails follow the same
path, the marking on the trees look like giant exclamation points!
From Landslide Lookout the NCT goes to the left (west) to Pinney Bridge.
The Jordan Valley Pathway goes to the right (east) and goes to Deadman's
Hill, another beautiful lookout of the valley.
Or park at the Jordan River National Fish Hatchery on Turner Road. Hike back
up Turner Road. about a half mile more or less to where the trail crosses the road.
Since there may not be tracks you'll have to look carefully for the trail markers.
(If you crest the hill you've gone too far.) Once you find the trail head north to
Deadman's Hill then continue using your map to Pinney Bridge Campground.
The NCT portion of the trail is well marked with 3"x5" blue rectangles.
Blazes on the DNR section are blue circles and more sparse. Be aware of the blazes
and keep your map and compass handy!
The Jordan River National Fish Hatchery is a great place. It has a 24-hour
visitor center. Lost hikers have been known to crash there during the night. If you
are there between 7:00 am and 3:30 pm check out the fish rearing inside. The lake
trout eggs may be hatching this week. There are lake trout and brook trout in the
raceways outside.
Winter Info In the winter, a good option is to start at the Jordan River
National Fish Hatchery on Turner Road. off US-131, because the road to Deadman's
Hill is not plowed all the way to the parking lot. Doing this gives you a few options
for picking up the trail. For an accurate snow report, call the hatchery at 231-584-2461.
The staff is always helpful to hikers.
You can hear the rushing river down the hill. The river has its begining at the bottom
of Landslide Lookout hill. If you have the time to hike to the bottom of the hill,
there is a path that branches off to the right. You'll see it as it goes down the
hill to the river. But don't forget that you have to climb back up!
The marked trail goes to the left and onto the side of the opposite hill. This part
of the hike has some steep hills. In the lower lands there wet areas, where springs
make their way to the river, but most of them have puncheon. When you come to the
first bridge over a creek, stop and look upstream. You'll be surprised, because the
creek starts right there out of the hill. Further on you'll come to Cascade Creek,
another creek adding its water to the Jordan River. The last leg of this section
is higher ground with hardwood trees and open areas. When you begin a decent down
a long hill you are almost at Pinney Bridge. There is a small parking area there,
and it looks like 3 small dirt roads converge. Continue north around the locked gate
to the bridge and note how big the Jordan River already. Continue on over the bridge
to the walk-in Pinney Bridge Campground about 1/4 mile away.
Hiking east from the Pinney Bridge Campground you enter the forest and climb
a steep hill. At the top you are rewarded with a view of the Jordan River Valley
and a bench on which to sit and enjoy it. A great place to watch the sunset if you
are camping. The trail is hilly at first with the river in the valley, but soon you
will be hiking in the valley with creeks and springs crossing the trail on their
way to the Jordan River. When you come to the river there are lots of places to sit
on the bank and enjoy the river. Then it is back up into the hills, eventually coming
out on Jordan River Road. where you'll turn south (right) walking the road,
and crossing the Jordan River at a place called "The Three Culverts." The
trail goes back into the woods just a little bit further south, crossing the road
and continuing east.
Leaving Jordan River Road you again climb to the top of the hills and come
out on a large clearing. It is dotted with trees now, but in the early 1900's there
was a lumbercamp here while they were logging the valley. After the open section
comes the swampy section. The trail offers a little view of the amount of water that
flows out of the hills and saturates the ground. There are boardwalks over the deeper
areas and the beaver think the boardwalks are a wonderful places to put their dams.
Sometimes the trail is underwater, but the DNR is working on the problem so you might
get lucky and find it dry. There are two boardwalk areas and they are good places
to observe water birds, frogs, and swamp creatures.
You will come to a divide in the trail. It is well marked. It is part of the short
3 mile loop trail from Deadman's Hill and back. To stay on the NCT, continue straight
ahead. The trail hugs the bottom of the hill with many stretches of puncheon, because
of the water coming out of the base of the hill. The next highlight is a platform
built over one of the springs. It is a good spot to get a close up view of the spring.
The next divide in the trail is where the Jordan
Valley Pathway goes up the hill to Deadman's Hill Lookout. To stay on the NCT
continue straight ahead and stay in the valley. You will now be following only 3"
x 5" blue rectangles. It's a little more than a mile to Jordan River Road.
The Tittabawassee Chapter calls this section "the Arden Johnson section"
because it was one of his favorites.
Through grassy valleys with oil fields and hardwood forests with lumbering operations,
this piece of the trail brings you to the Chandler Hills. Between M-32 and U.S.131
the trail comes out on top of some high hills with a spectacular view of the valley.
When the trail is on the road, it crosses over several rivers and streams.
This is a very pleasant hike through hardwood forests. It is a hilly area that is
well worth the effort. Springs and small streams abound in this section for water
filtering. There is a scenic vista on a white-blazed side trail.
Over hill and over dale to the edge of Petoskey and the campus of North
Central Michigan College. The trail climbs up to a high ridge and stays there
for a good part of this hike. When it comes off the hills it goes through an interesting
section; a 40 acre field dotted with communication towers. The last three miles are
on roads, but after hiking in the woods for so long it is almost refreshing to have
a wide open view.
The trail goes through the campus of North Central Michigan College then continues
on through Petoskey by following the Bear River. Called the peaceful passage
through Petoskey, because all the traffic and business of the large city is muted
by the river valley that you traverse on your way to Little Traverse Bay.
The walk along the bay on the bicyle path is most pleasant. A side trip to downtown
Petoskey can be made opposite the large clock. Watch for walkway with large overhead
sign. After going through a residential area the trail goes behind a grocery store.
It then goes past a side trail to the State Park. Crossing M-119 it travels
north along an old railroad grade and through Conway. At the north end of
Conway the trail goes behind a very nice resturant.
The island is accessible by private boat or passenger ferry operated by Manitou
Island Transit available in Fishtown at Leland. See the "Road map"
above for location and the Web pages above for more details.
More details
The passenger ferry operates only from May through October.
North Manitou Island is 7-3/4 miles long by 4-1/4 miles wide and has 20 miles of
shoreline. The highest point on the island is in the northwest corner, 1,001 feet
above sea level or 421 feet above Lake Michigan. The inland Lake Manitou occupies
a lowland in the north central portion of the island.
The hiking terrain varies from sandy beaches to gravel and boulder-surfaced slopes,
as well as the traditional dirt path through the woods. As you hike the island, you
will see old buildings dating from the logging and farming days.
Fairly easy trail through the woods then a few small dunes at the end and some fantastic
views.
Length
Short Trail 1.8 miles round trip straight to the dunes overlook and back.
Scenic Trail 3.2 miles round trip to the dunes overlook but taking the far
west and east loops along the way.
Hiking time
Short Trail a little over an hour round trip.
Scenic Trail 2 hours round trip.
Difficulty
Fairly easy, then moderate for most of trail there are some small ups and downs,
then a few relatively short hills in sand dunes at the end.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes. although a mountain bike would be very difficult to ride in the short dunes
section at the end. That's a good place to just park the bike and hike.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, take M-22 about 10 miles south (1 mile past Joyfield Road). In the
middle of the large S turn watch for the Baldy Traihead sign and parking lot
on right (north) side of the road.
More details
Old Baldy is 1000 feet above sea level and 400 feet above Lake Michigan. For the
easiest and shortest route, hike the two-track seen immediately as you turn off of
M-22. Otherwise take one of the marked trails from the parking lot. Wooded, mostly
flat terrain. At the north end of the trail system in the dunes area there are a
few short sand dune hills to go up and down. At the first short sand dune, once you
get to the top of the stairs, check out both of these options:
go to the right (northeast) about 1000 feet for a great view of Lower Herring
Lake and Lake Michigan.
go to the left going down and up a short dune and a few hundred feet west to
the bluffs above Lake Michigan.
When youre done with these trails, be sure to check out the Arcadia Lookout.
Its about 0.6 miles south of the parking lot on M-22 and offers more great views
of Lake Michigan
Mostly easy trails through the woods, with a small dunes and Lake Michigan beach
at the end
Length
Two overlapping loops trails, each about 2.3 miles long. Both connect to a 0.2 mile
trail at the west end that leads to an overlook and then to Lake Michigan beach.
Shortest route, round trip 2.5 miles for the Green Arrow loop only.
Longest route, round trip 3.8 miles if you take the northern portion of Black
Arrow loop and go down to Lake Michigan.
Hiking time
Shortest time, round trip About an hour for the Green Arrow loop only.
Longest time, round trip Around 2 hours if you take the northern portion of Black
Arrow loop and go down to Lake Michigan.
Difficulty
Green Arrow Loop easy a few slight hills.
Black Arrow Loop moderate a few short, moderately steep hills.
Path to the Lake Michigan moderate a small dune hill then across the sand to
the beach.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, take M-22 north past Crystal Lake about 1.1 miles. At Sutter Road,
M-22 turns sharply to the right (east) and about 700 feet after that on the left
(north) is the parking lot for the trail.
More details
Mostly wooded, gently rolling terrain. The path to the Lake Michigan beach is open
(no trees) and sandy.
There are three main east-west trails (that make two overlapping loops), from easy
to moderate. At the west end of the loops is a highly recommended path that leads
up a small dune hill to a Lake Michigan overlook and continues across the sand to
the Lake Michigan beach.
1. Take M-37 (Center Road) to Tompkins Road, then right (east) on that and go less
than a mile to Brinkman Road, then right (south) 0.5 miles to Woodland Road, then
left (east) 0.25 miles to Eastern Road, then left (north) 0.25 miles to Ridgewood
Road, then right (east) 0.6 miles and watch for the parking lot on the left (north)
side of the road.
2. Take M-37 (Center Road) to Tompkins Road, then right (east) on that 0.75 miles
to Brinkman Road, then left (north) 0.5 miles to Murray Road, then left (west) about
500 feet. Watch for the parking lot on the right (north) side of the road
3. Take M-37 (Center Road) all the north to its end at the parking lot for lighthouse.
More details
Located smack dab on the 45th parallel at the tip of the Old Mission Peninsula, this
area includes the historic Old
Mission Point Lighthouse and Lake Michigan beach access. The northern portion
of this area is sometimes called Lighthouse Park.
2064 N. Lakeshore Drive (M-110), about 2 miles north of US-31 in Manistee. (Head
north at the Burger King). On the west side of Lakeshore Drive across from the driveway
to the Orchard
Beach State Park is a small parking lot for the trail.
More details
Being part of the Orchard Beach State Park, a Michigan Recreatin Passport is required
for entry or to park at trail entrance.
Mostly wooded with a bit of open meadow. Some nice tall pines and oaks along the
way. When you're done, drive over to the camping area and take the stairway to the
beach for a dip in Lake Michigan!
A few minutes north of Traverse City on Old Mission Peninsula.
From the intersection of E. Front Street / Munson Ave (US-31) and M-37 in Traverse
City, take M-37 (Center Road) north about 2 miles to just past Homestead Court and
watch for signs to the Natural Area which begins on the right (east) in an old orchard.
More details
This area is just outside the northern boundary of Traverse City on Old Mission Peninsula.
There are remnants of where Pelizarri was once farmed. There are also glimpses into
what the Peninsula looked like before farmers and subdivisions. Expect to encounter
several bird species and you may catch a glimpse of the resident fox.
Nice loop trail through rolling and wooded terrain.
Length
1.5 mile loop round trip.
Hiking time
About an hour round trip.
Difficulty
Moderate there are many easy hills throughout the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes. Designed by a mountain bike trail expert, in fact.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes. But access in the winter may be difficult, as Swamp Road south of Joyfield Road
is not plowed.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
This trail is accessed from the Swamp Road Trailhead of the Arcadia Dunes Nature
Preserve.
From Benzonia, take US-31 south about 6 miles to Joyfield Road, then right (west)
less than 2 miles to Swamp Road, which is paved on the north side of Joyfield, but
only a dirt road to the south. Turn then left (south) and go about 0.4 miles to the
parking lot on the right (west) side of the road. The sign will say Swamp Road Trailhead.
More details
Pretty rolling and wooded terrain. Walk into the woods just a short ways and youll
encounter the loop trail. The trail is marked with purple blazes on trees.
The trailhead is 0.2 miles east of M-37 on 7 Mile Road (about 13 miles north of Baldwin
and 10 miles south of M-55). The trailhead is shared with the Little Manistee motorsports
trail so it's plowed all winter a big plus for skiers and snowshoers.
More details
No vehicle permit required. Used for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, mountaing
biking, and hiking. At the parking lot there are signs and directional arrows for
snowmobiles, off-road vehicles, and cross-county motorcycles. But half hidden in
the back of this staging area is the start of the pathway. For hikers the middle
loop is a gem, a forested path that leads you on a 4.1-mile hike to the Lost Lake
and back. Here you are isolated from the nearby motorized activity.
Easy trail system exploring the woods, meadows, and bit of the dunes along Lake Michigan,
three small lakes, and Otter Creek.
Length
Several loops totaling 14.7 miles.
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Easy the terrain is mostly flat with a few minor hills
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but see one of the trail maps above for details about the special winter parking
area (Junction Post 17) and cross-country ski trails.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
There are many places one can access the trail. The three main access points are:
Peterson Road From Frankfort, take M-22 north around 16 miles. Half-way along
you will go by Crystal Lake, and later cross the Platte River. Less then a mile after
that, watch for Deadstream Road on the right (south); Peterson Road will be on the
left (north). Take Peterson, its a 2 mile long gravel road that goes to Lake Michigan
beach where youll find a parking lot, vault toilet, and access to the trail.
Trails End Road trailhead On M-22, about 3 miles north of the Deadstream Road
/ Peterson Road intersection (about 19 miles from Frankfort) will be Trails End Road
at an S turn in the highway. Turn left (west) on Trails End its a gravel road
with a few turns about a mile long that ends at the parking lot for the trail. Here
youll find a vault toilet and access to Bass Lake. This is the main trailhead and
like a hub from here there are several ways you can access the trail system.
See the map posted in the kiosk for all the many choices.
Esch Road trailhead On M-22 about 2 miles north of the S turn at Trails End
Road (roughly 21 miles from Frankfort) youll come to Esch Road. Turn left (west)
its a little over a mile long and ends at Lake Michigan beach. Theres parking
on the sides of the road, a vault toilet, and access to Lake Michigan. (For a fun
place to explore, walk a short ways south on the beach to where Otter Creek empties
into Lake Michigan.) To get to the trails, at the east part of the parking area,
take south-bound Aral Road for access to two trails: one leading off to the east
and the other straight ahead both go along their respective sides of Otter Creek
and Otter Lake.
More details
Mostly in the woods, this trail system goes along Deer Lake, Bass Lake, Otter Lake,
Otter Creek, and in the dunes along Lake Michigan. There are several access points
to Lake Michigan. About a mile of the trail follows Aral Road (a two-track but car
accessible) south of Esch Road and the Otter Creek crossing.
Woodsy trail parallels the Platte River both near the shore and high along a ridge.
(Requires crossing the Platte River on foot.)
Length
1.5 mile main loop. (Web page claims 2.5 miles total.)
Hiking time
A little over an hour round trip.
Difficulty
Moderate two fair-sized, moderately steep hills and several small hills.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but not recommended. Crossing the river in winter could be a challenge without
the proper gear. Some areas near the river contain a lot of tree fall and the two
fair-sized steeper hills would be a challenge for XC skiers as well.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
The trailhead is located within the Platte River State Forest Campground. (No entrance
fee or vehicle permit is required to park your car or use the trail.) From downtown
Honor, take US-31 east about a mile to Goose Road on the right (south) side of the
road. Take Goose Road about 2 miles and watch for Platte River State Forest Campground
on the right (south) side of the road. The trail starts from the campground road
where the road is very near the Platte River there's a small sign there. A small
parking lot is available on the east part of the campground road loop.
More details
From the campground road, the trail goes about 100 feet and then crosses the Platte
River to get to the main loop. There is no bridge. Therefore, be sure to plan accordingly.
Consider wearing water shoes or sandals to cross the river, then switch back to your
normal hiking footwear. Expect the water to be at least a foot deep in the deepest
sections. As you cross, move to the right (downstream) a little to stay on harder,
sandier river bottom. Other areas of the river can be very soggy.
There are lots of springs along this trail, but for the most part it goes around
them. With the springs and soggy ground on this side of the river, expect a lot more
bugs (mosquitoes) than on the campground-side of the river.
The wooded trail has several small ups and downs, and two much longer, steeper hills
as you move from along the river to the ridge high above the river.
The trail is not used a lot, so there can be lots of leaves obscuring the trail and
expect some tree fall across the trail near the river. But blue dots and cross-country
trail markers on trees, as well as seven sign posts help mark the way.
"The pathway is marked on the south side of the campground loop and within
100 yards of the trailhead you arrive at the Platte River. Theres a bench here to
kick off your boots or the watery crossing. The trail is easy to spot on the other
side where post No. 2 and a another bench is located. You can do the ford in bare
feet but there are patches in of stones and mud to contend with. Slipping on a pair
of sport scandals is better.
You head upstream briefly and then swing sharply south (right) to scale climb the
river bluff along the first of many springs encountered in the area. After topping
off the trail descends the ridge and climbs again along a stretch where it's easy
to wander off course. Follow the blue blazes! Post No. 3 is reached at Mile 0.6 where
there is a bernch and just beyond it a huge maple that is stunning in October. The
post also marks a cutoff spur down the bluff to post No. 4 though its hard to distinguish.
The main trail continues to cling to the steep bluff providing glimpses of the Platte
River below between the trees. You pass more giant beech and maples before descending
sharply to post No. 5. Head west (left) to cross a pair of springs and follow the
separate loop where post No. 7 is located, reached at Mile 0.9 after a another climb
up the bluff.
You backtrack to post No. 5 and then follow the trail as its winds through a stand
of cedar along the river back to Post No. 2, reached at Mile 1.5. The Platte is so
clear that in the summer you watch trout feeding during a hatch and in the fall coho
salmon spawning upstream. One more dash across the river and youre back at the campground."
Being an island, water transportation to the island required.
To get to the public boat launch from Traverse City, head north on Highway 37 about
9 miles out from the base of Old Mission Peninsula. Follow the signs to Bowers Harbor,
turning left on Seven Hills Road, then left again onto Bowers Harbor Road. Cross
Peninsula Drive veering to the right onto Neah-ta-wanta Road. Very soon on the left
(west) side of the road is the public boat ramp (N
44° 53.72' W 085° 31.47'). Adequate parking and a port-a-john toilet
are available at the site.
More details
Power Island sits off Bowers Harbor (on Old Mission Peninsula) in West Grand Traverse
Bay north of Traverse City. Power Island is also known as Marion Island and Ford
Island, and many online maps have the old / wrong name.
The island is a 202-acre property about two miles from the Bowers Harbor Boat Launch.
The island includes forest and beach areas and is used primarily for its beaches
and picnic areas. A primitive campground (with just a handful of campsites) is located
on Bassett Island, which is connected to Power Island via an isthmus (during low-water
periods) off the northeast tip. Features of Power Island include swimming, picnic
area, restrooms, campsites, and hiking.
The island has a boat dock, swimming beach, and a treat for hikers: approximately
11 miles of well-maintained hiking trails that weave through much of the island's
interior. Make sure to appreciate the views from the bluffs on the western coast.
The island is filled with a beautiful stand of northern hardwoods, including beech,
sugar maple, basswood and red oak, as well as more than 250 plant species. Wildlife
includes a diverse population of songbirds, red fox and bobcat (who prey on such
small mammals as the meadow vole, woodland deer mouse, and short-tailed shrew). There's
a high ridge known as the Eagle's Nest and along the wild western shore are steep
bluffs and rocky shoals.
Being an island, water transportation is required. You can easily kayak over in about
an hour; it's about around 5-7 miles round trip depending on your route. See Paddling
from Bowers Harbor to Power Island. This is a great day trip or overnight trip
for beginner paddlers.
From the boat launch site, head southwest to Power Island. After about 1 mile
you (can) exit the shelter of Bowers Harbor and head into the west arm of Grand Traverse
Bay. If you follow the north shore of the harbor rather than heading straight to
the island, watch out for the shallow sand-and-boulder bar that extends out from
Tucker Point. At mile 2.5: Crossing to the east side of Power Island, you come to
a dock and sand beach (N
44° 51.92' W 085° 34.27') that is very popular with other boaters for
day use. Near the dock you will find access to the hiking trails.
(Is there access from the mainland at the closest point that's less that 1 mile
away?)
20 minutes north of Traverse City on Old Mission Peninsula near Bower's Harbor.
From Traverse City, take M-37 over 9 miles north to 7 Hills Road. Veer left on to
7 Hills Road and go north about 0.5 mile to Bower's Harbor Road. Turn left (west)
and go about 0.5 miles to Peninsula Drive. Cross the street turning right somewhat
as road become Neahtawanta Road. Take this northwest 0.5 miles to Pyatt Road. Turn
right (north) and 1/4 mile down the road is the parking area.
More details
Also known as The Bill Carls Nature Preserve. The hills crisscrossing the preserve
are sand dunes formed when this area was part of the larger lake. The dune ridge
located here a regionally unique habitat is known as wooded dune and swale. These
glacial "tracks" make this preserve a living laboratory for geology buffs!
It is also perhaps the most botanically diverse property in private ownership in
Grand Traverse County as more than 250 plant species have been identified on the
property.
From Glen Arbor, take M-22 about 4.5 miles northeast to Port Oneida Road. Turn left
(north) and go less than 2 miles to Basch Road. Turn right (east) and go about 0.6
miles to the parking area on the left (north) side of the road.
More details
The short trail to the lookout at the top of Pyramid Point leads through a flat meadow
then up a short but moderate hill through the woods. Great views here, high above
Lake Michigan. See the South and North Manitous Islands, and on clear days the Fox
Islands.
The main loop has long gentle hills, is mostly in the woods, but with a few parts
in meadow.
The dunes to the east of the top Pyramid Point are fun to explore. On the back side
(south side) of the dunes, in sort of the SE corner, you can go down a long sandy
hill that connects with the main loop.
Pretty trail in the woods with a lovely view overlooking Crystal Lake.
Length
Around 1.2 miles round trip.
Hiking time
Under an hourround trip.
Difficulty
Moderate relatively short trail but includes some gentle hills.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Benzonia, take M-115 west 1.8 miles to Mollineaux Road. Turn right and take
Mollineaux Road 0.6 miles and watch for the Parking sign on the left (south) side
of the road. The parking lot is on the right (north) side of the road.
More details
Youre sure to enjoy the unique view this trail offers Crystal Lake overlook from
atop the high ridge. This area has been known locally as Railroad Point ever since
the Toledo Ann Arbor & North Michigan Railroad established service between Frankfort
and Beulah in the 1890s. There are two ways to the overlook. 1. The shorter and easier old two-track trail.
2. New in 2011 the Mary Margaret Johnson Trail a slightly longer, woodsier, and
hillier trail. It's marked with purple blazes on trees and includes an extra little
loop that goes by another section of the bluffs over Crystal Lake.
Easy and pretty loop trail travels next to Ransom Creek and around Ransom Lake.
Length
2 miles round trip. Western spur: 0.3 miles. Northern spur: 0.3 miles. Loop around
Ransom Lake: 1.4 miles.
Hiking time
A little over an hour round trip.
Difficulty
Easy the main trail and western spur trail are flat the whole way. But note that
the northern spur trail, if you take it, is a steady climb up a gentle hill.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but see the note in Directions below for winter use.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
There are two access points:
West entrance: From Honor, take US-31 east around 9 miles to Lake Ann Road, then
north about 4 miles. (Or from Lake Ann, take Lake Ann Road about 1 mile south south
Maple Street.) Watch for the blue Ransom Lake Trail sign on the left (west) side
of the road. There is a short access road down to a small parking area on the right
(east) side of the road. From here, take the western spur trail to the east along
the Ransom Creek 0.3 miles to the main 1.4 mile loop trail around Ransom Lake.
North entrance: From Honor, take US-31 east around 9 miles to Lake Ann Road,
then north about 4.5 miles to Nofsger Road. (Or from Lake Ann, take Lake Ann Road
about 0.5 miles south of Maple Street to Nofsger Road.) Turn (east) on Nofsger Road
and go about 0.6 miles to Bellows Lake Road. Turn right (south) and go less than
0.1 miles to the private Ransom Lake Road on the right (west). (There's a blue "Ransom
Lake Road" sign and an "Enter Only" sign.) Take that to a small parking
area. From here, take the northern spur trail down a gentle hill to the south 0.3
miles to the main 1.4 mile loop trail around Ransom Lake.
Note: During the winter the West entrance may not be open. If so, youll
need to enter via the North entrance (see above). This is not plowed, either, so
there is roadside parking only, and you need to hike / snowshoe / ski in the 0.1
mile entrance road to get to the parking area where you'll find the entrance to the
northern spur trail. (A few hundred feet past the Enter Only road is the Exit Only
road. You make find it better to park there and hike / snowshoe / ski in that 0.1
mile road to get to the parking area and the entrance to the northern spur trail.)
More details
Open to the public for hiking, hunting, fishing, bird watching, and nature study.
Lovely wooded terrain and surrounding hills. Very pretty Ransom Creek and Ransom
Lake.
From their former Web site: "Nestled within the hills of hardwood forests near
Lake Ann in Benzie County. The property encompasses the beautiful, secluded Ransom
Lake, 220 acres of wildlife habitat, forests, and wetlands, along with 3500 feet
of Ransom Creek frontage, the property is adjacent to state land and land preserved
for nature education. This project was a long-time dream of residents of Almira Township.
This land will now be preserved forever."
The western spur portion of the trail follows Ransom Creek. The main loop trail goes
around Ransom Lake. There are two footbridges over Ransom Creek where it enters and
exits Ransom Lake.
From the northeast section of the loop trail is the Parsons Center Trail (part of
Parsons Center and owned by Eastern Michigan University) which parallels Ransom Creek
for about 0.3 miles on its route from Bellows Lake.
Mostly woodsy trail with a few hills and an overlook.
Length
3 miles of trails involving several loops, and includes the trail to the Raven Hill
Discovery Center.
Some trail lengths:
Lookout Trail: 0.4 miles
Orange Loop: 0.5 miles
Blue Loop: 0.5 miles
Red Loop: 0.7 miles
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Easy appears to only involve some easy hills.
Open to mountain
bikes
Maybe.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map (Note: this map incorrectly shows the Raven Hill Discovery Center much further
south that it actually is.)
Directions
From East Jordan, take C48 (aka State Street and the East Jordan - Boyne City Road)
east abou 4.5 miles to Pearsall Road. Turn right (southeast) and within 50 feet,
turn left (south) onto Fuller Road. Go over 0.7 miles (past Deer Creek and up the
big hill) to the Raven Hill Discovery Center on the right (west). You can park at
the Discovery Center and hike about 0.4 miles to the preserve. Or, go another 0.3
miles to Rogers Road and turn left (east) about 400 feet down on the right (south)
you'll see a parking area for the preserve.
More details
If you strart at the Raven Hill
Discovery Center (4737 Fuller Road), you can experience "a regional science
and technology center, as well as a cultural, historical and art center." Appears
to be a nice woodsy trail that travels up and down a hillside and one trail includes
an overlook.
At the west end Park in the lot on the southeast corner of Three Mile
Road at Parsons Road (on the south side of the railroad tracks). The trail starts
from the parking lot and head east. (The north side of the tracks is the TART bicycle
trail.)
At the east end From US-31 at Four Mile Road, go about 0.2 miles north
to Pine Drive. Turn right (west) and go about 0.5 miles to the "end" (before
it turns to the south). There you'll find a wooden gate, kiosk, and tiny parking
lot.
More details
The Reffitt Nature Preserve is located adjacent to the TART trail, not far from the
Traverse City State Park.
Little
Traverse Conservancy
Adjacent to this property (to the north) is the Dressel Nature Preserve with
no trails.
Adjacent to this property (to the east across the river) is the Jordan River Nature
Preserve with a 0.4 mile trail going north from Fair Road. It appears to be mostly
in open meadow.
The three preserves together are sometimes called the Jordan River Nature Preserves.
From the east side of East Jordan, go south on M-66 (S. Lake Street) for 1.5 miles
to Rogers Road. Turn left (east) and the preserve is 0.5 miles down on the left (north)
side of the road.
From the west side of East Jordan, go south on M-32 (Maple Street) for 1.5 miles
to Rogers Road. Turn right (west) and the preserve is 0.5 miles down on the right
(north) side of the road.
The north end of the trail is at the intersection of Erie and Echo Streets near town.
More details
Located just downstream from a public access / canoe launch, this 135-acre preserve
includes 1.2 miles of frontage along the Jordan River as well as an easy trail that
appears to be an old railroad. The loop on the south end goes closest to the river.
(Between Kalkaska and Traverse City, south of M-72.) From Williamsburg, take M-72
east to Broomhead Road. Turn right (south) and go about 3.5 miles to the Sand Lakes
parking area on the left (east) side of the road.
More details
It has five marl lakes surrounded by rolling hills of oak-pine forest.
From the intersection of 131 and M-72 in Kalkaska, go west 1.7 miles on M-72 past
the Kaliseum to Valley Road. Turn right (north) and go about 6 miles. Around 1.3
miles north of Dundas Road, watch for a white tool shed on the left (west) side of
the road. You will see a small sign announcing Seven Bridges Park on the right (east)
side of the road. (If you get to Underhill Road, you've gone about 0.6 miles too
far.)
More details
Best known for its rustic wooden bridges built at various sites cross the Rapid River
and its adjacent tributaries. Rapid River is a blue ribbon trout stream and the Seven
Bridges area has over one mile of river frontage. The remains of the dam used by
a sawmill (built in1882) can still be seen when crossing the first three bridges.
Only four bridges of the seven exist today. Part of the trail is boardwalk.
There are two undesignated pathways one leads through the bridges area to a meadow.
The other leads to the top of Rickers Mountain on the west-side of Valley Road.
Moderate Some easy to moderate hills along the trail.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Cross-country skiing: Yes. This trail is part of the 8 mile long Pierce
Stocking "Scenic Drive Ski Trail" a "designated cross-country
ski trail." and also includes the unplowed Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
Snowshoeing: No.
Access the trail from the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. From Empire, take M-22 north
about 2 miles to M-109. Then left (north) and go a little over a mile to the Pierce
Stocking Scenic Drive. Entrance is on the left (west) side of the road.
More details
The trail crosses Shauger Hill Road twice and the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive twice.
The trail goes primarily through a climax maple-beech forest and some pine forest
in pretty hilly terrain.
In the summer, its lack of outstanding views and shoreline, in a park filled with
them, has most people looking elsewhere to hike. That makes this trail a nice escape
from crowds. Even when the viewing decks are packed and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
is lined with slowly crawling vehicles, you will likely encounter few if any other
people on this foot path
Trail across lower Michigan connects the town of Empire on Lake Michigan with the
community of Oscoda on Lake Huron.
Length
Appoximately 220 miles
Hiking time
Varies with the route taken.
Difficulty
Moderate, because of the hills, length, and varied terrain.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
A road map of the entire trail would show all of northern Lower Michigan, but see
the maps above for a general idea of the areas involved.
Also, see this map.
This
Shore-to-Shore Trail is also known as the Michigan Riding and Hiking Trail.
Hikers need to be aware of the use of the trail by horseback riders, but the trail
is open for all users except bicyclists. Look for the marked posts as shown
to the right.
This is the longest continuous trail in the Lower Peninsula. It stretches east and
west from Lake Huron (near Oscoda) to Lake Michigan (at Empire. Riders can get more
information through the Michigan Trail Riders Association.
Around Traverse City, the trail cuts through Lake Dubonnet, Muncie Lakes, the Sand
Lakes Quiet Area, and then heads north of Kalkaska before continuing eastward. There's
also a southern spur that goes down to Cadillac, and a northern spur
that ends east of Indian River. And the North Country Trail
joins the Shore-to-Shore trail for a short distance north of Kalkaska. The trail
passes under Interstate 75 north of Grayling and continues eastward to follow the
scenic AuSable river on toward its destination, AuSable just south of Oscoda.
This is one of the few trails in the Midwest offering a long-distance hike / ride
complete with established trail camps along the way. The trail features campgrounds,
complete with privies and wells, at approximately 18 to 25 mile intervals. Most of
the camps overlook lakes or rivers.
The trail is easy to hike as it follows roads and well-marked pathways. Although
the trail is fairly "urban," it avoids the tourist destinations of Michigan's
north country. Its scenerysome of the most beautiful the state offersranks highest
on the list of special attractions.
Well-marked woodsy loop trail provides an intimate experience with the Pine River,
paralleling both sides of the river. It includes a few ups and downs and several
great vistas along the way
Length
4 mile loop.
Hiking time
Around 2 hours.
Difficulty
Moderate several easy to moderate hills along the way.
You can begin your hike from either end of the loop via the two access points:.
1) South End:
Approaching from the south from the village of Luther, take State Road
north. about 3 miles. The trail access and campground at the south end of the trail's
loop is directly west of the 9-Mile Road crossing at the Silver Creek State Forest
Campground.
Approaching from the north from Hoxeyville (SE of M-55 and M-37) take 11
1/4 Road south to State Road. Take State Road south to 9 Mile Road. The trail access
and campground at the south end of the trail's loop is directly west of the 9-Mile
Road crossing at the Silver Creek State Forest Campground.
2) North End:
Approaching from the north from Hoxeyville (SE of M-55 and M-37) take
11 1/4 Road south to State Road. Take State Road south to 10-Mile Rd. and turn right
(west) and go about 1/2 mile. Park where the road dead-ends at the Pine River. Trail
starts from pick-up area on south side of the road OR via foot bridge crossing the
river.
Approaching from the south from the village of Luther, take State Road north.
about 4 miles to 10-Mile Rd. and turn left (west) go about 1/2 mile. Park where the
road dead-ends at the Pine River. Trail starts from pick-up area on south side of
the road OR via foot bridge crossing the river.
More details
Silver Creek Pathway is in Lake County just south of Manistee and Wexford Counties
and within the Pere Marquette State Forest.
There is no fee to park at or hike this trail.
The trail crosses the Pine River at Silver Creek Campground footbridge at the south
and the Lincoln Bridge footbridge at the north.
From Chun's Corner south of Traverse City (where US-31 intersects with M-37 and both
go north together), go west about 0.8 miles to East Silver Lake Road. Go north around
2.6 miles, the park is on the left (west) side of the road.
More details
Also known as Silver Lake Park. Amenities include three picnic pavilions, restrooms,
a tee-ball field, tennis courts, paved and unpaved walking trails, a sledding hill,
and plenty of open space for playing catch or tossing a Frisbee.
The paved loop surrounds the open portion of the park. Two of the unpaved trails
meander thorugh a pretty piney woods around Hidden Lake and near the shores of the
north branch of Silver Lake, a third trail goes around an open meadow.
From Traverse City, take US 31 north to M-72. Turn right (east) and go 8 miles to
Hill Road, which veers off to the left. Follow Hill Road over a mile to Rapid City
Road. Turn left (north) and go 2.3 miles, and look for the sign and parking area
for Skegemog Swamp Pathway on the left (west) side of the road.
From Kalkaska take M-72 west about 4.5 miles to Rapid City Road. Turn right (north)
and go 3 miles, and look for the sign and parking area for Skegemog Swamp Pathway
on the left (west) side of the road.
Walk a short distance southwest through the woods,
Take the abandoned railroad grade trail straight south about 0.4 miles to the
footbridge on the right near where Janis Creek goes under the trail.
Cross the footbridge on the right and follow the path and boardwalk which lead
west about 0.2 miles through the swamp and forest, paralleling Janis Creek, to a
small observation tower. Here you'll find a great view of Skegemog Lake and wetlands.
While on the boardwalk, it is advised to stay on the path so you do not
get stuck in that "soft-bottomed" swamp.
Two other trails to Skegemog Lake...
There's a trail not far from here that takes you to a bog area on the north shore
of the lake. See one of the trail maps. To get there from the parking lot, take Rapid
City Road 0.4 miles north to Schneider Road, then turn left and go 0.4 miles to Round
Lake Road.. See sign and parking for the Skegemog Lake North Shore trail on the west
side of the road. Walk about 0.8 miles to the Lake.
The trail maps also show a short trail to the lake from the south end of Round
Lake Road.
The National Lakeshore stretches along Lake Michigan from just north of Frankfort
to well east of Glen Arbor. It includes the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the world's largest
moving sand dunes. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails. 12 official trails,
and many unofficial (unmarked) ones, 2 of which are covered on this Web page, and
2 islands see the list below.
From Empire, take M-22 north about 2 miles to M-109. Then turn left (north) and go
about 4.5 miles to Glen Haven Road (where M-109 turns to the right (east)). Go straight
on Glen Haven Road (M-209) about 1/2 mile to Glen Haven at Lake Michigan beach. Then
turn left (west) on to Sleeping Bear Dunes Road and take is PAST the Maritime Museum
(on the right (north) side of the road) a few tenths of a mile to the gravel parking
lot.
More details
From the parking lot you can start south through the woods, or go west up the dunes.
Loop goes through forest at dunes edge, then takes you atop the northern point of
the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. Some parts of the trail are dirt path, some packed
gravel, but most is in the sand..
At the top are perhaps some of the best views in the whole National Lakeshore. Glen
Lake, Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Bay, the Manitou Passage, North and South Manitou
Islands, Betsie Point, and Pyramid Point are all on tap for your viewing pleasure.
There's also 0.2 mile spur from the north part of the trail over the dunes to Lake
Michigan beach.
The island is accessible either by private boat, or passenger ferry operated by Manitou Island Transit available in Fishtown
at Leland. See the "Road map" above for location and the Web pages above
for more details.
More details
The passenger ferry operates only from May through October.
The island is roughly 3 mile long by 3 mile wide. The hiking terrain varies from
sandy beaches to gravel and boulder-surfaced slopes, as well as the traditional dirt
path through the woods.
The Visitor Center is in the old island post office in the village with exhibits
telling the human and natural history of the island. It's open daily from mid-May
through early October.
The island is home of the famous South Manitou Lighthouse. This 100 foot lighthouse
tower, active from 1871 to 1958, marked the location of the only natural harbor between
here and Chicago. The light was reactivated in May 2009 and is lit from May to November..
Old Growth Cedars Tucked away on the southwest corner of the island is a grove
of virgin white cedar trees. One of the fallen trees showed 528 growth rings!
Off the south shore is the shipwreck of the Francisco Morazan.
Paved, flat trail runs along Grand Traverse Bay through downtown Traverse City, neighborhoods,
and includes the Mitchell Creek watershed.
Length
10.5 miles total
Eastern section: from M-72 at Bates Road to Lautner Road: 2 miles
Main section: Bunker Hill Road to M-22/M-72 intersection: 8.5 miles
Pick up the trail at many places in Traverse City. See trail maps for details.
More details
A favorite for bicyclists, runners, walkers, and in-line skaters, the trail runs
from at M-72 at Bates Road in Acme (trail's east end) to the M-22/M-72 intersection
in Traverse City (trail's west end). There's a gap in the trail on the eastern end
between Lautner Road and Bunker Hill Road, separating the trail into two sections
(for now).
At its west end the trail connects to the Leelanau Trail,
which runs north to Suttons Bay.
Parking is available at numerous parks, Traverse City public parking lots, and other
points along the trail.
There are two parking areas along the trail:
Intersection of of Three Mile Road and Parsons Road.
At the Traverse City State Park Beach on US-31.
More details
Trail goes along Three Mile Road from the Traverse City State Park beach on US-31
to South Airport Road. Tail also intersects with the existing TART Trail at Parsons
Road.
Phase 2 (when complete) will extend the trail from South Airport Road to Hammond
Road.
Easy trail through the woods. In the main loop are lots of "interesting"
tree roots, the trail crosses Cold Creek, and there's a 1600 foot boardwalk.
Length
Main loop 0.7 miles
South trail 0.6 miles (one-way)
East trail 0.2 miles (one-way)
South trail plus main loop 1.9 miles (round trip)
East trail plus main loop 1.1 miles (round trip)
Hiking time
South trail plus main loop around an hour
East trail plus main loop about 30 minutes
Difficulty
Easy the entire trail is flat, but on some parts there are many tree roots in the
path to watch out for. The northwestern area of the main loop is often soggy.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but a deep hard-pack of snow on the boardwalk could be difficult on skis.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
There are two entrances, both connect to the main loop:
South entrance In Beulah at the intersection of US-31 and Narrow Gauge Road,
go east on Narrow Gauge about 0.2 miles to the trails parking lot and trailhead
on the left (north) side of the road. The south trail starts here.
East entrance In Beulah at the intersection of US-31 and Narrow Gauge Road,
go east on Narrow Gauge about 0.6 miles to Eldridge Road. There, turn left (north)
and go about 0.6 miles and watch for the sign to trail entrance on left (west) side
of road. Theres no parking lot just park on the side of the road. The east trail
starts here.
More details
Flat, woodsy trail. Some areas are a former vegetable farm, but except for a few
irrigation ditches its hard to see now as the area is very overgrown. On the main
loop theres a 1600 foot boardwalk on which youll cross Cold Creek, the main feeder
to Crystal Lake. On the north and west parts of the loop there are many gnarly tree
feet (roots) crossing the path.
Two parts easy woods trail between two former farms, and hilly trail going up sand
dunes to the Lake Michigan bluffs.
Length
1.2 miles round trip to Treat Farm.
2 miles round trip to the bluffs / dunes.
Hiking time
40 minutes round trip to the Treat Farm.
1.5 hours round trip to the bluffs / dunes.
Difficulty
To the Treat Farm Easy The trail between the two farms is a gentle hill and easy.
From the Treat Farm to the top dunes:
Strenuous If you hike to the top the steep way.
Moderate If you hike to the bluffs / dunes by going around to the south then
circling back to the top.
From Empire, take M-22 south "around the hill" to Stormer / Norconk Road.
Turn right (west) on Norconk Road and go about 1/2 mile to the Tweddle Farm at the
corner with Aral Hill Road.
More details
Unmarked trails. The main "trail" is the former Treat Road which goes from
the Tweddle Farm west through the woods about 0.6 miles to the Treat Farm.
About 1000 feet southwest of the Treat Farm are some tall sand dunes at the edge
of Lake Michigan. At their base you can climb about 100 feet to the top via a steep
sandy trail. Or for a slightly longer but more gradual way to the top circle around
to the left (south) of the dunes and once at the bluffs, circle back to the top .
At the top, you're about 400 feet above Lake Michigan. Some terrific views overlooking
the lake you'll experience here!
Note, some refer to the top of the dunes there as Old Baldy. This is a common term
for such a feature, and should not be confused with the Old
Baldy that's part of the Arcadia Dunes.
More adventurous hikers who don't mind playing mountain goat a ways can connect to
the Empire Bluff Trail and make a large loop. To
do this, from atop the dunes southeast of the Treat Farm, go north along the bluff
about 1 mile, staying at roughly the same elevation. You'll come to the boardwalk
for the Empire Bluff Trail. Take the Trail back east 0.75 miles to its parking lot
on Wilco Road. Turn right (southeast) and go 0.55 miles to M-22. Turn right (south)
and go 0.1 miles to Norconk Road (also called Stormer Road on the east side of M-22).
Turn right (west) and go 0.4 miles back to the Tweddle Farm. Total loop: 3.8 miles.
(Note: doing this loop going the other direction coming FROM the Empire Bluff Trail
is tricky and not recommend unless you know exactly what to watch from as you come
south on the bluff to sand dunes southeast of the Treat Farm.)
Easy trail and boardwalk through meadow and wetland.
Length
1.2 miles round-trip.
Hiking time
About 40 minutes round-trip
Difficulty
Easy flat trail and boardwalk
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes, but a deep hard-pack of snow on the boardwalk could be difficult on skis.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, take M-22 south about 6 miles. At a mile south of Herron Road, watch
for a home that was an old school house on the left (east) side of the road. The
parking lot is immediately beyond that on the left (east).
More details
This trail is a two-track through meadow, a short single-track path through woods,
then a 900 foot boardwalk through a marsh / wetland area. The trail ends at a few
ponds that are former marl pits.
From Traverse City, take US-31 north to Bunker Hill Road (which is just south of
M-72). Turn right (east) and take it about a mile to Bartlett Road, then turn right
(south) and go about 0.6 miles to entrance and trailhead parking area on the left
(east) side of road.
More details
Used by cross country skiers, runners, hikers, mountain bikers, walkers, and naturalist's
year round.
Perhaps the real highlight of VASA is the extensive network of unmarked trails. These
trails spider through the property and conservatively offer another 30 miles of trails.
From Alba, take US-131 north about 4.5 miles to westbound M-32. then west about 1.5
miles a little ways after the watch for North Country Trail crossing, there's a
parking lot on the left side of the road.
From the loop's SW point follow the North Country Trail.1.2 miles to connect with
the Jordan Valley Pathway at its northern most
point. See this Web
page for details.
South of Leland, on M-22, go 0.8 miles north of M-204. On the west side of the road
watch for a sign for the Whaleback Natural Area at an unmarked road (south of Oxford
Drive). Turn left (west) and go a few hundred feet there's a gravel parking lot
for the area on the right.
More details
A gentle accent trail through hardwoods takes you to a small hilltop loop trail and
an observation deck overlooking Lake Michigan. Area hosts unusual communities of
plants and wildlife.
Michigan DNR. Full official trail name:
Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park
Most of this trail is out of the range of this Web page, but we'll cover its starting
point at Cadillac.
Long trail on old railroad across five counties from Cadillac to Comstock Park (just
north of Grand Rapids).
Length
92 miles, one way.
Hiking time
Depends on how much of the trail you take at any one time.
Difficulty
Easy, it's a former railroad.
Open to mountain
bikes
Yes, and road bikes. Also inline skating where the trail surface allows (paved asphalt,
that is).
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes. But note the trail is also open to snowmobiling on all but the southern 16 miles
from Russell Road to Comstock Park.
Road map
A road map of the entire trail would have to show five counties in northern and western
Lower Michigan, but here is a road
map for the Cadillac trailhead near the north end of the trail.
Directions
This trail travels from North Park Street (Riverside Park) in the town of Comstock
Park (near Grand Rapids) all the way to Cadillac, through Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm,
Osceola, and Wexford counties and has many access points. See the Web sites and trail
maps above for more details and information.
To reach the Cadillac trailhead:
coming via US-131 take 131 to the M-115 southeast of Cadillac. Go northwest
for 0.2 miles to 41 Road. Go north 1 mile to 44 Road. Go west about 0.5 miles to
parking area where the road and trail intersect.
coming from the northwest via M-115 from the intersection of west-bound M-55
and M-115, take M-115 southeast about 1.2 miles to 44 Road. Go east about 0.6 miles
to parking area where the road and trail intersect.
More details
This trail is Michigan's longest rail-trail. The corridor of the trail was used
by the former Penn Central and it's predecessors, Pennsylvania, Michigan Northern,
and the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroads. This lengthy trail showcases a variety
of landscapes, from swamps to forests to open farmland, plus numerous towns and cities.
You will run across existing and in-development trails, too, as this corridor is
the backbone of the state rail-trail system. The trail crosses 14 open-deck bridges
along its five county span, the longest being 319 feet across the Muskegon River
north of Big Rapids.
Much of the trail surface is natural ballast and hard-packed gravel with these exceptions
offering paved asphalt:
13.6 miles from Comstock Park to just north of Rockford
13 miles from Big Rapids to Reed City
17 miles from Cadillac to just south of LeRoy
1 mile section at the very northern end in Cadillac
With the trail surface being mix of material a mountain bike or a hybrid bicycle
is best to tackle the distance and terrain.
The complete trail is ADA compliant with no grades greater than 5%. Check out this
elevation chart to see how the trail changes elevation along its many miles.
The numbers are in feet above sea level.
At the trail's north end at Cadillac, the trail goes a bit beyond the trailhead at
44 Road and circles around Lake Cadillac (where you can enjoy swimming beaches and
an outdoor amphitheater for concerts).
From Empire, take M-22 north about 2 miles to M-109. Then left (north) and go a little
over a mile to Welch Road. Parking lot is immediately off Welch Raod.
More details
From the Windy Moraine Overlook (near the southeast corner of the trail), you can
see Glen Lake, Lake Michigan, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes
From interection of US-31 and M-72 at Acme, take US-31 north about 4 miles. There
are three access points:
The most visible one is a scenic overlook on the east side of US-31, across from
the entrance to Bay Ridge development, and there's a parking area and interpretive
display. There is a 0.4-mile trail that loops to the edge of the ridge, the highest
ground of the entire property. You can see most of the creek below and maybe even
an eagles nest across the valley.
The main access point is on Yuba Road, just east of US-31, with a parking area
and the trailhead for the main trail. This point-to-point trail runs almost the length
of the valley while a spur branches off to climb the western ridge.
There is also an access point and very short trail and roadside parking on Bennett
Road, near the curve of the road, at the south end of the natural area.
More details
Includes more than a mile of Yuba Creek in a well-hidden valley. A mix of open
and shrub-dominated wetlands, upland hardwood forest, and abandoned orchards. Bountiful
in wildlife. Watch for bald eagles!
"From the Yuba Road trailhead you follow a mowed lane that winds through
an open meadow and around the cement foundations of what use to be a cherry processing
facility. You climb slightly and then at Mile 0.3 come into view of Yuba Creek and
the valley that surrounds it. Its a sight that catches you off guard if youre a
frequent traveler of US-31 but never had notion the creek was here. Here Yuba Creek
is enclosed by forested ridges but the floor of the valley is open grassy meadow.
In the fall the grass is brownish gold framed by trees in fiery reds and yellows.
At Mile 0.75 you reach a bench just above the trail to the west (left) and almost
directly across the valley from the eagles nest. Topping the tallest pine in the
valley, the huge nest is easy to spot and a busy place April through July when the
birds are raising their young.
At Mile 0.9 is the only junction. To the west a path climbs the ridge for 0.4 mile
ending as a small cul-de-sac near US-31. Straight ahead the trail continues for 200
yards to arrive at a stand of hardwood trees, a mile from the trailhead. The only
way back to your vehicle is to backtrack."
Trail through coastal sand dunes and along Lake Michigan beach near Point Betsie
Lighthouse.
Length
1.1 mile loop. (3100 feet through the dunes, 1500 feet along the beach, 1200 feet
on Point Betsie Road.)
Hiking time
A little less than an hour round trip
Difficulty
Moderate there are several smaller hills through sand dunes.
Open to mountain
bikes
No.
Open to XC skiing
and snowshoeing
Yes.
Road map
Road
map See also: Trailheads locations for all Benzie County trails on Google Maps, or as a KML
file used in Google Earth.
Directions
From Frankfort, go about 4.5 miles north on M-22 to Point Betsie Road. Turn left
(west) and follow it for 0.4 miles to the large Nature Conservancy sign on the left
(south) side of the road. The trail starts near the sign. Park here, or at the end
of the road about a quarter mile west. (There is another large Nature Conservancy
sign on the right (north) side of the road about 250 feet west, but there are no
trails there.)
More details
The preserve involves coastal sand dunes and forest near the Point Betsie Lighthouse
and along Lake Michigan.
The unmarked trail starts near the large Nature Conservancy sign along the south
side of the road. At the entrance to the trail and only near the road, there is a
fair amount of poison ivy, but its easily avoided. On the rest of the hike there
are only a few scattered and sparse patches of poison ivy.
Use the trail map as a reference. The trail begins along the east edge of a small
sand dunes, between the dune and a large stand of trees.
After that, head southeast for a while, then around the east side of another large
stand of trees where the trails goes up and over a sandy ridge.
The trail fizzles out southeast of that second batch of trees, about 1500 feet from
the road and near the edge of the property (marked by 4-foot-tall green markers).
Curve to the west and then northwest a little following a valley around that stand
of trees.
Next head due west about 1500 feet to Lake Michigan. Theres no trail and it's hard
to walk a straight path. Just head for the Lake, zigzagging over and around the small
hills and dunes. Along the way youll cross a diagonal path leading from the private
residences on your right (north) to the woods on your far left (south). And youll
go past the south end of a seasonal pond after a good rain there's water here for
a several days. Once you come to the beach, take it to the right (north) to Point
Betsie Lighthouse, then Point Betsie Road to the right (east) back to your car.
We claim no authority on this subject. The following information has been compiled
from several Web sites by authorities, including the two at the bottom of this article.
A few interesting facts:
Cougars are generally tawny-colored with black tipped ears and tail.
Adults cougars are 5' to 8' long from nose to tip of a long tail.
In the wild you see cougars for one of two reasons, you have either surprised
them or they are stalking you.
Cougars don't bluff like bears. If they're attacking you, they are going to try
to catch you and make a meal of you.
When hiking:
Make lots of noise.
Stay in groups.
Keep children close by and pets on a leash.
Carry a walking stick to make yourself look bigger and/or as a potential weapon.
Carry pepper spray with easy access to it.
Carry a whistle.
If you encounter a cougar:
Stop. Do not panic. Pick up small children and pets. Most cougars will try to
avoid confrontation.
Do not run. You may trigger a cougar's instinct to chase.
Never approach or advance towards the animal, especially if it is near a kill
or with kittens. Always allow the animal a means of escape.
Stand tall. Do not crouch down or try to hide.
Try to appear larger than the cougar. Stand on a stump or log. Raise and wave
your arms to make yourself appear as large as possible. Holding a branch or other
objects makes a person looks bigger than they really are and cougars prefer smaller
prey; sometimes that is enough to scare a cougar away.
Try to look more like a threat and less than prey.
If the animal displays aggressive behavior, create lots of noise, shout, blow
a whistle, wave your arms, and throw rocks. The idea is to convince the cougar that
you are not prey, but a potential danger.
Never take your eyes off the animal or turn your back.
Don't run. Slowly back away. Wave your arms as you back away.
If you are attacked:
fight back aggressively with all your strength and try to stay on your feet.
People have survived by punching, throwing sticks and rocks, using backpacks as shields
and spraying pepper spray. Cougars have been driven away by people who have fought
back.
do your best not to allow the cougar to get behind you.
This
Shore-to-Shore Trail is also known as the Michigan Riding and Hiking Trail.
Hikers need to be aware of the use of the trail by horseback riders, but the trail
is open for all users except bicyclists. Look for the marked posts as shown
to the right.
