Explore the best rated trails in Big Rapids, MI, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Fred Meijer Flat River Trail and Betsie Valley Trail . With more than 22 trails covering 512 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
I decided to take my road bike for a trip from Cadillac down to Big Rapids where the trail is closed for paving and back to Cadillac. I agree with Cecelia's review from Sep, 23 in that the asphalt paving is old and bumpy between Reed City and Big Rapids. Also the trail was closed between Hibma Rd south to Cleveland Rd in Tustin. The detour is gravel roads that are loose sand and very difficult to navigate with 32mm or thinner tires!
With the exception of the portion of trail north of Reed City that runs along Hwy 131 the the scenery is awesome running through rivers, hills, valleys, farms and small towns.
I am wondering if there's anyone assigned to blow the trail clean from leaves, twigs and branches? There were quite a bit of that along the way. In comparison to the Macomb/Orchard trail for example which is very well maintained all year round it seemed a bit unkempt.
Overall it is an awesome trail that I hope is better maintained than what I experienced on my recent trip and look forward to returning next year when the whole trail will be paved.
Approx 1.5 miles in length, flat and paved trail across the street from the Weathervane in Montague
Nice September ride. Parked in Whitehall/Montague and picked up the White Lake Pathway for a few miles and connected to the Fred Meijer Berry Junction trail into North Muskegon. Trail is paved and very good condition. Trail services in North Muskegon. Always an enjoyable ride on this trail!
Picked up the trail in Whitehall/Montague and connected with the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail. This trail is paved and goes through town and a small park.
Do you know how much I love the white pine trail? So much! Particularly, between Cadillac and Reed City. Such beautiful woods, marshes, streams, farms, wide open spaces, snakes, turtles, frogs, birds, eagles, hawks, cows, horses, pileated woodpeckers, indigo buntings, and so many other friends. I am a cyclist, runner, and hiker. I've had some of my best runs, hikes, and bike rides on this trail. Chi miigwech ~ thank you!
Also, horses are not allowed but I have seen horse poop between Tustin and LeRoy. I supposed the Amish community use the trail but they can also use the roads. I hope this gets better enforced. As the signs note along the trail equestrian, snowmobile, and motorized vehicles are prohibited. You may see a DNR vehicle from time to time.
I agree with drwelldog's review from July 2022. The WPT from Cadillac to Reed City is heaven on earth! However, from Reed City to Big Rapids it is paved but bumpy, worn, rough, and there are some potholes. I usually ride between 13-15 mph so I had to slow down to not hit bump after bump. I know a section south is being paved but looks like this section could use an update. The bushes also need to be trimmed back so you can better see through the foliage. We want the woods to be as they are but also safety is key, especially for solo riders.
Originally saw how nice the trail was in Lowell, decided to ride to Belding and back. After first few miles of beautiful trails it quickly became quite rough, actually very rough. We made it round trip but will definitely not be back. It’s unfortunate it’s not being maintained. We live closer to and have ridden the Kal Haven Trail which is a lot nicer. Also surprised there are no restrooms anywhere on the trail.
68 year old couple. Started out on Labor Day at the Hart trailhead at 11 am in 90 degree weather. It took 2.5 hours to get to Montague with a few stops along the way, the longest of which was at Country Dairy (recommended!). At that time of day I'd say about 60-70% was shade. It's a beautiful, flat, smooth trail.
We stayed overnight at the Weathervane Hotel and walked to Sawyer's Brewpub for a couple beers and Dog and Suds burgers. :-)
The next morning we left for Hart at 9, again in 90 degree weather. Thankfully at that time of day the trail was 90% shade. Arrived in Hart at 11.
The only thing that could improve this trail would be if it had more curves......it is straight!
We will be back.
This trail is closed from Howard City to Big Rapids Michigan. According to the local people it will take until November of this year to finish paving. It is a 21 mile stretch of the trail. We had to turn around.
Easy parking, good paved trail. Lunch at Deb's Cafe was very tasty. I will come back!
Easy parking and nice clean trail.
Started at Greenville West/Washington intersection—rode about 8 miles and then came back. Enjoyed the path, the trees, the wildflowers, and a couple of farms—but not so much stopping for so many road crossings.
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