Bald Mountain Recreation Area to Ortonville loop

This loop is considered a "Hard gravel ride" and requires very good fitness. While some segments might be easier, the overall route is demanding, with portions that may require advanced riding skills or even pushing your bike. It features some of the steepest hills and most rugged terrain in southeastern Michigan.

The route offers a diverse mix of surfaces. You'll ride primarily on unpaved sections (86.5 km), but also encounter asphalt (5.21 km), paved roads (2.84 km), compacted gravel (2.71 km), and singletrack (5.99 km). Expect hills, slopes, and potentially rocks and ruts, especially within the Bald Mountain Recreation Area.

This extensive loop is approximately 97.7 kilometers (60.7 miles) long and typically takes over nine hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

The loop offers a rich variety of landscapes. Highlights include Lower Trout Lake, a great spot for a break, and the expansive Ortonville State Recreation Area with its many trails and lakes. You'll also pass through beautiful woodlands near Indianwood Gold & Country Club and experience the rolling acres, 17 lakes, and two trout streams within the Bald Mountain Recreation Area.

Parking is generally available at the Bald Mountain Recreation Area and the Ortonville State Recreation Area, which serve as good starting points for the loop. Specific parking lots within these areas can be found on local park maps.

While specific rules for the entire loop can vary, dogs are generally permitted in Michigan State Recreation Areas like Bald Mountain and Ortonville, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check local signage for any specific restrictions on certain trails or areas.

Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for this long ride. However, be aware that the Bald Mountain Recreation Area, particularly its north and south units, can be very muddy and remain so until summer. For drier conditions, late spring through early fall is generally best.

Yes, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, including Bald Mountain Recreation Area and Ortonville State Recreation Area. You can purchase one at the park entrance or when renewing your license plate tabs.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride along parts of the Iron Belle Trail, Bald Mountain-South Unit Trails, and the Polly Ann Trail, among others.

Given the significant length and duration, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate gear for gravel biking. A repair kit, spare tubes, and navigation tools are highly recommended. Be prepared for varied terrain and potential mud, especially outside of peak summer.

While the route passes through natural areas, the town of Ortonville, which the loop circles, offers amenities like cafes and pubs. Within the recreation areas, you might find restrooms at designated facilities, but it's wise to plan for self-sufficiency for most of the ride.