Trolley Line Trail (MI)

Michigan

5 Reviews

The Trolley Line Trail, which opened in 2009, runs north from the City of Clio to the Saginaw County line at Willard Road in Vienna Township. It is so-named because it occupies a corridor that once saw service from an interurban railroad that carried passengers between Flint and Saginaw.

The paved route is also a rail-with-trail, as it parallels an active CSX track to the west. The trail connects directly to Clio’s George Atkin Jr. Recreational Trail in the south, allowing cyclists, pedestrians and inline skaters to experience the city’s various amenities. The Trolley Line Trail’s route is significantly more rural, dominated by idyllic farmland views for its 3-mile run.

Parking and Trail Access

There are currently no official parking areas for the Trolley Line Trail, but trail users can park in Clio Park on Mill Street in Clio. From the parking area, take the George Atkin Jr. Recreational Area north a short distance to Field Road to access the Trolley Line Trail.

Straight and Flat - Great for Speed

October 2018 dlee8837

This trail connects Clio's downtown park and continues to the older George Atkin Jr. Trail. The entire length runs along the railroad through the rural area north of Clio with very light traffic crossings. Being a very flat and straight trail, it makes it very easy for a beginner inline skater but also would appeal to a seasoned speed skater.

This trail is mostly in the open fields so there is hardly any shade on a hot day. There are benches periodically placed along the trail though.

I have ridden this trail several times on a bike a couple of times on inline skates. It is very easy to continue your ride on a bike into the rural roads.

If you are a beginner inline skater and want to head South into the Clio Park, there is a tricky downhill South of Field Road. This hill has very limited grass on the sides to fall onto if you loose control, so just make sure you have a decent slow-down technique. This downhill segment is technically part of the George Atkins Jr. Trail.

Long and straight.

August 2016 billthena

This trail is in great shape. It is paved and well maintained. If you want something flat and straight, this is your trail. There are a few minor roads to cross, but traffic is not an issue. The area is rural, peaceful and pretty quiet.

My biggest note is to be prepared for the sun. There is no shade on this trail at all. You are exposed the whole way. If it is hot and sunny, you are going to feel it.

September 2015 michiganf1

Includes rating

Excellent trail, about to become better

September 2015 michiganf1

No idea what the previous reviewer is talking about. It is wide, flat, and the paving is in great condition. It does connect to the older Clio trails, which are concrete and not in the best shape.

The only issue is it's lack of length (2.8 miles) which next year will increase to over 4 with an extension that will take the trail under I-75 into Birch Run.