Four separate loops take advantage of both cross country ski pathways and low traffic woods roads to provide a total of 26 miles of marked bicycle route. The woods roads are shared with other vehicles, so though traffic levels are low, ride with the expectation that you might meet other vehicles. The majority of the 26 miles passes through northern hardwood forest. However the routes do take the cyclists past meadows, hemlock groves, 40 inch diameter white pine, red pine areas, and several small lakes.

The main trailhead is located just off of M-94 at the Valley Spur Day Lodge. Facilities include a parking area, trail head map and display, toilet, and drinking water.

The second trailhead is located on FR 2264 one half mile east of M-94. This location features only a trail head map and small parking lot (5-7 vehicles). This trail head provides access to the flat sections of the bicycle routes, particularly the easiest route, Loop 4.

The routes are open daily during daylight hours from May to November. There is no trail fee.

The Trail Loops

Each loop has been marked with a brown trail marker with a white bicycle symbol on it. The average distance between markers is one quarter mile. Routes are also numbered. Route numbers (three inch numbers on blue diamonds) are posted at each intersection. For example to follow route 2, starting at the parking area look for a blue diamond with the number 2. Ride in that direction looking for white bicycle symbols. At each intersection look for a diamond with the number 2. Intersections of routes also have location maps.

Trail 1 . . . 12 miles. Gentle, flat terrain with a steady 1/2 mile long uphill near the beginning. The trail is very easy after the uphill section. Most of this trail is along woods roads where cyclists may choose to ride side by side Take a short side trip to Truman Lake off of FR 2266.

Trail 2 . . . 4 miles. This loop is the moat challenging route and was designed for experts. the back half of this route.

Trail 3 . . . 7.5 miles. This route has generally flat terrain with the exception of one steep uphill just past the point where Trails 2 and 3 spilt. Most cyclists will need to walk up this hill. The last 1/2 mile of this trail is all downhill, so use caution in this section.

Trail 4 . . . 3 miles. This route features flat terrain and a relatively short distance. This is a perfect route for a ride with the kids. The access to this route is from the second trail head on FR 2264.

Move on to Trail Finder: Hiawatha National Forest