Bay de Noc-Grand Island Riding & Hiking Trail

Used largely by horses and riders, this 40-mile trail, part of the Hiawatha National Forest, roughly follows the route of a centuries-old Ojibwa canoe and portage route used as a direct inland route from Lake Michigan to Lake Superior. The Whitefish River almost connects Au Train Lake with the head of Little Bay de Noc at Rapid River.
The trail begins at M-94 south of Au Train and follows the Whitefish River valley along the river bluff, with some good views. It passes Haymeadow Falls and campground north of Rapid River. (See Escanaba region of this web site.) The northern part has some hills, separated by level stretches.

Conflicts between horsemen and hikers, which can be difficult in heavily-used public land near large metropolitan areas, apparently aren't much of a problem here. See the info and map on fs.fed.us/r9/forests/hiawatha, then look for "recreation," "hiking," and "Bay de Noc."

The northern trailhead is on M-94 south of Au Train. Park north of M-94 by Ackerman Lake. (906) 387-2512. A brochure is available from all Hiawatha National Forest offices. Handicap accessible: call.

Return to Au Train

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