Nicole Bloom Memorial Trail

The trail is approximately 6.2 to 6.8 miles long, and most hikers can expect to spend about two hours to reach the summit of Mt. Baldy. The total duration for an out-and-back hike is typically around 4-5 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views.

The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty. While it involves a steady, 3.4-mile climb with an elevation gain of around 800 feet, much of it follows old logging roads that are well-marked. Beginners with a reasonable level of fitness should be able to complete it, but be prepared for a sustained uphill effort and some rugged sections at higher elevations.

Specific parking information is not detailed in the provided sources, but the trail is part of the Helmut and Candis Stern Preserve at Mt. Baldy. It's advisable to check the preserve's official website or local resources for designated trailhead parking areas before your visit.

The provided information does not specify regulations regarding dogs. As it's part of a nature preserve, it's best to check the official rules of the Helmut and Candis Stern Preserve at Mt. Baldy regarding pets, including leash requirements, before bringing your dog.

The trail is located within the Helmut and Candis Stern Preserve at Mt. Baldy. The provided information does not mention any specific entrance fees or permits required for hiking this particular trail. However, it's always a good idea to verify current regulations with the preserve management before your visit.

The trail offers stunning scenery, particularly during spring and fall migrations when the area is known for an amazing array of birds. Clear days are best for enjoying the panoramic views from Mt. Baldy. While not explicitly stated, spring, summer, and fall are generally ideal for hiking in Michigan, with fall offering vibrant foliage.

The primary draw of this route is the spectacular 360-degree panoramic views from Mt. Baldy. From the summit, you can see Lake Superior, Eagle Harbor, Lake Bailey, Mt. Bohemia, Mt. Houghton, and even Isle Royale on clear days. The trail also passes by Mount Lookout, offering additional scenic vistas.

The trail leads to Mt. Baldy, which features a rare "northern bald" community. This alpine-like ecosystem is uncommon in Michigan, characterized by sparse, low-lying plant life and wind-contorted white cedar and oaks. Early in the hike, you'll also cross Cedar Creek.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Nicole Bloom Memorial Trail, but it also passes through sections of the 6th Street Trail for a small portion of the route.

The Nicole Bloom Memorial Trail is located within the Helmut and Candis Stern Preserve at Mt. Baldy, a protected area spanning over 1,500 acres. The preserve is significant for its ecologically unique Mt. Baldy, which hosts a rare "northern bald" community, and is a notable spot for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.

The terrain is diverse, starting with forested sections and old logging roads (two-tracks) that are generally easy to follow. As you ascend, it transitions to a more rugged hiking path at higher elevations, culminating in a craggy, mile-long ridge top with nearly treeless openings and a juniper-bordered final stretch to the summit.