Description
The Saginaw Valley Rail-Trail is a perfect summer escape, since 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 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 restrooms, soda machines, drinking 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. Stop at the viewing platform at Martin Road and take in the scenery. Watch for 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.
Parking and Trail Access
To start in Saginaw, head south of town on State Route M-46. About 1.25 miles east of State Route M-47 turn right onto S. Center Road. Go 1.75 miles to Stroebel Road. Turn right and go 1.5 miles to the trailhead and parking lot (no facilities).
To start in St. Charles, from the stoplight downtown at Saginaw Street and W. Belle Avenue, go 1 block west on Saginaw to E. Water Street. Turn right and proceed 2 blocks to the trailhead and parking on the left.
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 ...
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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 ...
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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.
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