Saginaw Valley Rail-Trail:
Michigan
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Description:
The Saginaw Valley Rail-Trail is a perfect summer escape. The foliage-drenched corridor offers respite from the sun. This 9.2-mile trail edges Saginaw's southern boundary before it heads south to St. Charles. Equestrians follow a parallel path that begins at Stroebel Road, where there is plenty of parking, and continues all the way to Martin Road at mile 8.1.
From the trailhead, you are in nature's garden. Luscious displays of Queen Anne's lace and wildflowers cluster along the route. Interpretive signs identify many of these species and add a nice touch to your trip. Equally pleasing is the thick carpet of plants flanking much of the trail. The intact canopy of trees makes you feel as if you are are in a large forest.
The trail provides views of a mix of agricultural and residential land. About a third of the way through your journey, you will reach a trailhead at the corner of Swan Creek Road and Van Wormer Road that has a modern restroom, soda machines, water fountains and parking. Located between Van Wormer and Benkert roads is a fishing platform where you may see anglers hoping to snag a trout, perch or smallmouth bass.
There are three pocket parks, complete with wooden gazebos and benches, along the trail. The first is located between Stroebel Road and River Road, the second between Spencer Road and Lakefield Road and the third between Teft Road and Prior Road. These shelters provide opportunities to relax and further soak in the solace of your leafy green surroundings.
The last half of the trail skirts the Shiawassee River State Game Area. This natural area gives you the chance for some excellent wildlife viewing. You may choose to stop at the viewing platform at Martin Road and take in the scenery. There is a high probability of seeing geese, ducks, swans and white-tailed deer throughout the year.
Lumberjack Park in St. Charles is the end of the line for this straight, wide and smooth trail. The trail ends with a trip across a historical stone railroad trestle bridge and a pretty view of the Bad River.
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Parking & Trail Access:
To start in Saginaw, head south of town on State Hwy. 46. About 1.25 miles east of State Hwy. 47 turn right onto S. Center Rd. Go 1.75 miles to Stroebel Rd. Turn right and go 1.5 miles to the trailhead and parking lot, which has no facilities.
To start in St. Charles, from the stoplight downtown at Saginaw St. and W. Belle Ave. go 1 block west on Saginaw St. to E. Water St. Turn right and proceed 2 blocks to the trailhead and parking on the left.
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Reviews: [4 trail ratings]
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Very nice trail, A real gem
By mickew745 in July, 2011
Rode this trail over July 4th weekend. Trail is flat and well shaded, which was helpful on a 90 degree day. Plenty of wildlife and scenery. Trail starts at a nice little park with a bridge over the river. There is a fountain in the river and a stream running to the river. The trail has many park benches and flower beds along the trail. The first mile and a half of the trail had a fresh surface of asphalt. After that the trail was still very smooth. Seen many families with children.
My wife, who is still new to biking and was able to do the complete trail and back without a problem. There are restroom facilities on the trail, but no place to purchase food or drinks. So bring your liquids. I would recommend this to anyone.
Great Trail,Nice Scenery
By rich1028 in June, 2011
Great Trail,Nice Scenery

Been bike riding the trail for two weeks now.
been walking it for a few years now.
just would go from the parking lot on swan creek up to spencer road and turn around.
but now that we are on bikes we have now been going from the begining to the end of the trail.
very enjoyable and the people along the way seem friendly.
Scenic, well maintained, rural.
By dgarvin1 in May, 2011
This trail is paved, shady, scenic, and not busy. It is a good length--20 miles. The grade is downhill from St. Charles but it's barely detectable.

It is definitely one of the nicer central/SE Michigan Rail Trails.

This photo was taken in December 2002 looking southwest from Thomas Road. The tree canopy is common throughout the trail.
Trail Facts
Trail End Points: St. Charles (Lumberjack Park, Water St) to Saginaw (Stroebel Rd.)
Counties: Saginaw
Trail Length: 9.2 miles
Trail Category: Rail-Trail
Trail Surfaces: Asphalt
Trail Activities: Bike, Inline Skating, Fishing, Wheelchair Accessible, Horseback Riding, Walking, Cross Country Skiing
TrailLink ID: 6016215

Related Links
Guidebook: Learn more about other Midwestern rail-trails in RTC's Midwestern Guidebook.