Manistee River Trail/North Country Trail Loop
The North Country Trail takes you west of the Manistee River, and the Manistee River Trail takes you along the east side of the river. This is a hiking and XC skiing only trail.
MANISTEE RIVER TRAIL – An 8.8 mile trail that goes the length of the Manistee River from Hodenpyl to Tippy Dam. A 23-mile loop can be made with the North Country National Scenic Trail. There are two trailheads for the Manistee River Trail, Seaton Creek Campground and Red Bridge, both offer camping.
THE NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL – has a 128-mile section running through the Manistee National Forests marked with blue rectangle-shaped blazes. The sections of trail can be done as day hikes going from trailhead to trailhead, or larger portions can be done as overnight backpacking trips. Some sections of the trail are open to mountain bikes, so be aware of bicyclists.
Rustic Camping is available along the trail at designated areas, please contact the US Forest Service to obtain a camping permit.
SEASONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRAIL…
Hiking
The Manistee River Trail follows the east shore of the Manistee River for 8.8 miles through rolling hills. The trail traverses past several wetlands and there are bridges crossing two creeks. A waterfall near the northern end of the trail is very popular with many hikers. The Manistee River Trail/North Country National Scenic Trail connector is also the site of the largest wooden suspension bridge in Lower Michigan. Several observation sites along the trail provide hikers with vista views of the Manistee River and surrounding area. There are several dispersed campsites along the trail.
A 23-mile loop trail is formed with the Manistee River Trail along the Manistee River. The loop trail can be accessed from the Marilla and Upper River Road Trailheads for the North Country National Scenic Trail and the Red Bridge and Seaton Creek accesses for the Manistee River Trail.
Cross Country Skiing
This trail also welcomes XC skiers in the winter months, although not groomed, the trail is marked. The area offers beautiful scenery and several observation sites. Equipment rentals are available in the area at Evergreen Resort & Coyote Crossing Resort.
Safety first, always let others know where you are going, and back track your path.