August 4, 2011. Hiked the trail North from M-72 to Rainbow bend. The trailhead on the north side of M-72 is easily located. The trail is marked fairly well, but, often, the trail takes a turn off the trail you are walking on and winds its way through the forest- off the established trail. The section of the trail from M-72 north, is in need of some service- remarking and clearing are sorely needed. It is passable for a day hike, but would be difficult with a full backpack. On one section, the area appears to have been clear cut. It has grown in nicely, but the ground is full of ruts that are very difficult to walk on. In addition, the trail is difficult to follow in this area because there are few trees that can be marked. If you take your time and follow the blue rectangles, you will be fine.

Once you arrive at the McMasters Bridge area and cross over the river, the trail is poorly marked. Between the Bridge and Rainbow Bend campground, the trail is in a bit of disrepair. The logs someone had placed on the trail to use as a footbridge over the swampy area are rotted and slippery.

When you depart from the swampy area and enter Rainbow Bend, the trail is well marked. The campground is a fantastic rustic site. It is right on the main branch of the AuSable, below Conners Flats. There are several drive in sites and a group campsite that can only be walked or canoed to. (Only about 100 yards from the parking area). The fee for camping at the site near the river is $6 per person per night.

Continuing on the trail out of the campground is easy and the trail remains in good condition. We walked north on F-97. The road walking is not the best....but it leads to some other great hiking.

Hope to find what the next section is like in the near future.

Excellent with lots to see. Also rest stops on the way to Clare.

"My brother and I are going to walk ""solo"" from Midland to Mackinac in less then 14 days. If you can give us any info e-mail me at midland_skater4life@yahoo.com.

Thanks!"