Midland-Mackinac Trail

The Midland to Mackinac Trail, an ancient 210-mile Indian footpath, has been restored by members of the Boy Scouts' Auburn-based Lake Huron Area Council No. 265 and other volunteers. A trail reopening and dedication were held in the Spring of 2001 in Midland County. "The trail is nature at its best," says Joe Bevirt, the Chairman of the Midland to Mackinac Trail Commission, of the hiking and cross country skiing trail stretching from Midland County to Mackinaw City at the tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. For hundreds of years, this trail was used by Native Americans as a seasonal path for hunting, trapping and gathering foodstuffs. The trail is relatively isolated, passing through parts of only two communities -- Cheboygan and Mackinac City. With few organized campsites along the way, hikers and riders are urged to carry water. Camping along the trail on public lands is free, but Michigan DNR permits are needed on state land. Maps are available for $2.00 by check made out to the Lake Huron Council BSA and sent to Midland to Mackinac Trail Commission, 1211 Kingsbury Court, Midland, MI 48640-2712. The Midland to Mackinac Trail is not a "rail-trail."

Parking is available throughout the length of the trail and at both the south and north trailheads.