Description
Set on a 500-acre parcel bought by the City of Novi, this seven mile (plus ski trails) system combines dense hardwoods, an abandoned apple orchard, open meadows, and an old tree nursery. An existing system of hike/ski trails has been supplemented by new technical singletrack created by the Michigan Mountain Biking Association. Hunting is not permitted, making it an attractive choice in the fall.
The trail is blazed with yellow directional arrows and white "Mountain Bike Trail" placards. Most of the technical riding occurs in the first and last couple of miles. More than anything, this trail needs riders. Steady usage will smooth and define the tread and keep the City of Novi from turning it into a golf course. That option is being heavily promoted, and could easily happen if usage is low. SAVE A TRAIL-- RIDE NOVI!
These trails are maintained in part by volunteers of the Michigan Mountain Biking Association (MMBA).
Parking and Trail Access
How to get there from Detroit: From I-96, exit 162 (Novi Road), north on Novi Road 1.6 miles to traffic light at Old Novi Road, turn left. Proceed 0.5 mile to South Lake Shore Drive, turn left, then 0.4 mile to Lakeshore Park. Parking and trailhead are on left, beach on right. There is a gated 0.3-mile access road to the trailhead in the far left (southeast) corner of the main parking lot. Park in the main lot if gate is closed. At end of access road is a picnic shelter, portable toilet (in season) and trailhead sign with map. A second access, with parking, is planned along the southern boundary (12 Mile Road) in 1999, after completion of sewer project. This will be free. Access through Lakeshore Park is free for Novi residents, fee for non-residents between Memorial and Labor Days.
Great Trail!
By
copema
in
May, 2010
This trail has it all. At the trail head is a park and a detailed map of the trails. The trails offer different options depending on your skill level. There is a trail that branches in many directions for a great moderate family ride through the woods ...
read more
Thank you Novi
By
in
December, 2006
"I was in Novi in October for software training. Before I left, I researched trail riding in the area. I rode this trail with a co-worker two nights (about one hour to complete) until the rains came. It was a welcomed relief after being at desks all day. ...
read more
Some sections removed
By
Brad
in
February, 2003
"This trail has a lot to offer, however a lot of the old trail system was taken out due to construction in this area. One of my favorite sections is now going to be a subdivision. The whole back half just got wiped out! There has been a new system of ...
read more