Big M Recreation Area trails

The Big M Mountain Bike Trail offers a diverse and challenging jogging experience through the beautiful canopied hardwoods and logged stands of the Manistee National Forest. You'll navigate rolling hills, a mix of singletrack and doubletrack, and encounter a sandy base from glacial moraines, with roots and rocks becoming more prevalent near the North Country Trail. This difficult 16.7-mile (26.8 km) route, with 970 feet (295 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes, making it ideal for experienced trail runners.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Big M Recreation Area trails are well-marked. The parking lot is plowed in winter, and a chalet provides amenities at the trailhead. Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be leashed. While accessible year-round, checking trail conditions, especially for sandy sections or winter snow, is advisable for the best experience.

This extensive trail system, known for hosting the Lumberjack 100 endurance mountain biking race, is a popular year-round destination. Its varied terrain, shaped by glacial retreat, offers segments ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring a suitable challenge for different fitness levels. The connection to the broader North Country Trail also adds to its appeal for longer adventures.

The Big M Mountain Biking Trails offer a diverse jogging experience through the Manistee National Forest, characterized by a sandy base and gently rolling hills. You'll traverse through a beautiful canopy of hardwoods, with sections winding through pine plantations and even swampy cedar land. Keep an eye out for the challenging climb up Reindeer Hill, where on a clear day, you might spot Crystal Mountain to the north.

This moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) loop packs in 380 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 58 minutes to complete. A $5 day-use fee is required for parking at the Big-M Overflow Parking, and dogs are permitted on leash. The trails are well-marked with maps at intersections, making navigation straightforward during the non-snow seasons.

Originally designed for cross-country skiing, these multi-use trails provide a unique blend of "lung-busting climbs" and "screaming downhills" for joggers. The system features both inner and outer loops, with the outer loop offering more significant elevation changes. It's also adjacent to the North Country Trail, providing options for longer adventures.