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Print Friendly MapThe Upper Macatawa Trail is sited within the stunning natural area of the same name, in Zeeland, Michigan. The trail runs 2.8 miles and offers a sensory as it passes through hardwood forest, verdant meadows, wetlands teeming with life, and bridges overlooking the Macatawa River. In addition to this main trail, there are also several unpaved hiking and mountain biking trails snaking through the 612 acres of the preserve. The park also features scenic overlook decks (a highlight), picnic tables, parking and restrooms. It’s a fine place for birding, particularly during the spring and autumn migrations.
While the trail is worth on its own, it’s also an important connector in the trail system in this part of western Michigan. To the north, it intersects with the Fred Meijer Kenowa Trail which stretches an additional 9.8 miles. To the south, it links up with the bike path along Adams St. and by extension, the rest of the Holland metro area trails.
There are trailheads with parking, kiosks and restrooms at either end of the trail.
To reach the northern trailhead starting from I-196, take exit 55 and head east on Byron Rd to 76th Ave. This is where you will find the terminus for the Fred Meijer Kenowa Trail as well.
To reach the southern trailhead (on 84th Ave.), from I-196 take exit 52, head east on Adams St. and then drive north on 84th Ave. The address is about 8601 Adams St. This entrance also provides access to other park trails, as well as a bluff overlooking the pools on the floodplain.
I love this place! Never too busy. I take the paved trail. I go all the way through and back. Only takes 90 minutes. Very scenic.
Not every trail may be worth the time to ride, but this one is worth coming out and checking out for sure.
If you dare attempt the overlapping segment on Strava, note there are a lot of blind spots. Seems like an area ripe for an accident between a biker and someone taking a walk.
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