Bridge Over Paint Creek – Clinton River Trail loop from Auburn / Corporate (WB)

If you're looking for a diverse touring cycling experience in Michigan, the Bridge Over Paint Creek – Clinton River Trail loop from Auburn / Corporate (WB) delivers. This moderate 18.5-mile (29.8 km) route, with a gentle 368 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 4 minutes, making it an excellent choice for cyclists seeking a varied ride without extreme challenges. It's perfect for those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty and urban exploration, offering a unique perspective on Auburn Hills cycling terrain.

What to expect on Bridge Over Paint Creek – Clinton River Trail loop from Auburn / Corporate (WB)

This loop takes you on a journey through two distinct rail-to-trails, each offering its own character. The Paint Creek Trail, known for its natural beauty, follows Paint Creek through scenic areas, especially vibrant with fall colors. As you transition to the Clinton River Trail, the scenery shifts, guiding you through downtowns, industrial zones, residential neighborhoods, and parks, often paralleling the Clinton River itself. While sections in Auburn Hills are newly paved and smooth, be prepared for varied surfaces on the Clinton River Trail, including crushed limestone, asphalt, and some rougher parts with large crushed stone, particularly west of Opdyke in Pontiac. This variety means the route suits touring cyclists comfortable with changing conditions and frequent road crossings, which require caution.

Planning your visit

Accessing the Bridge Over Paint Creek – Clinton River Trail loop is straightforward from the Auburn/Corporate (WB) area. While specific parking details aren't provided, trailheads along both the Paint Creek Trail and Clinton River Trail typically offer parking. The Clinton River Trail is well-equipped with amenities in Auburn Hills, including hydration stations, benches, and even Bicycle Fix-It stations for basic repairs, which is a huge plus for touring cyclists. Given the mix of urban and natural environments, the best time to cycle Clinton River Trail and Paint Creek Trail is often during milder weather, though the fall colors on the Paint Creek Trail are a particular highlight.

Trail details

• Distance: 18.5 miles (29.8 km)
• Elevation gain: 368 feet (112 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 4 minutes