Pine Valleys Pathway Middle Loop

Parking is available at the trailhead. The trail is well-marked with numbered posts and maps at intersections, making it easy to find your way to the starting point.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails within the Pere Marquette State Forest, but they should always be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

The trail is enjoyable in various seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While primarily a hiking trail, its wider sections were originally designed for Nordic skiing, making it suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, though the trails are not groomed.

The Pine Valleys Pathway Middle Loop is located within the Pere Marquette State Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking on state forest trails in Michigan. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Michigan DNR website for any updates on regulations or specific requirements for camping if you plan an overnight stay. You can find more information at michigan.gov.

The Middle Loop is generally rated as moderate for hiking. While some segments are easy, others, particularly a 2.3-mile stretch between points 2 and 4, involve a ridge with several small dips. Hikers with basic skills should find the trail manageable.

The trail features varied terrain, including hilly sections and descents, notably a nearly half-mile descent towards Stewart Lake. You'll navigate wooded ridges, cross logging roads, and traverse open fields. While some sections are wider, the path remains a forested walk for much of its length.

A key scenic highlight is Lost Lake, which can be viewed from a bluff along the trail. The pathway also leads to an arm of Little Syers Lake, where beaver dams have created a flooded pond, attracting a variety of wildlife, especially birds and waterfowl. The predominantly forested landscape offers picturesque views throughout.

The beaver-dammed arm of Little Syers Lake is a prime spot for observing beavers and diverse bird and waterfowl species. The forested environment also provides opportunities to spot other local wildlife.

This loop is specifically recommended for hikers because it offers a peaceful, non-motorized experience. Unlike other parts of the broader pathway system, you'll find seclusion from the noise of ORVs and snowmobiles, allowing for quiet enjoyment of the natural surroundings.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the PineValley7-1, PineValley5-7, PineValley3-4, PineValley2-3, and Merrilville Road North trails.

Yes, the loop provides direct access to Lost Lake, which features a walk-in campground with five lakeshore sites. This offers opportunities for overnight backpacking and fishing.