Hart-Montague Bicycle Trail

Yes, a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Michigan state parks and recreation areas, which includes the Hart-Montague Trail State Park. This passport supports the state park system.

The trail connects the cities of Hart and Montague, passing through several small towns like Mears, Shelby, New Era, and Rothbury. You can find parking and access points in these communities, making it easy to join the trail at various points along its length.

Yes, absolutely. The trail is a former railroad right-of-way, making it virtually flat with a very low grade. It's entirely paved and in excellent condition, making it ideal for cyclists of all skill levels, including beginners and families looking for a relaxed ride.

You'll experience a diverse landscape, including fruit orchards, open fields, shaded woodlands, and farms. During warmer months, you can enjoy vibrant wildflowers and observe various birds and wildlife. Notable attractions include the world's largest working weathervane in Montague, Christmas tree farms, and the Clear Springs Nature Preserve. Don't miss a stop at Country Dairy in New Era for food and homemade ice cream. You might also catch glimpses of White Lake and Silver Lake State Park.

The trail offers something in every season. Warmer months are great for enjoying wildflowers and lush greenery. The fall brings beautiful foliage. While primarily a cycling trail, it's also popular for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter, provided there's sufficient snow. For road cycling, late spring through early fall generally offers the most pleasant weather.

Yes, the trail is multi-use and generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

Yes, at its southern end, the Hart-Montague Trail connects to other trails like the White Lake Pathway and the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail. This connectivity allows for continuous cycling for up to 45 miles from Hart to Muskegon. The route also passes through sections of the 35 (Michigan) and the Medbery Bike Trail.

The terrain is exceptionally easy for cycling. As a former railroad corridor, it's virtually flat with a very low grade throughout its 22-mile (35 km) length. The entire path is paved and was resurfaced and widened in 2015, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.

Yes, the Hart-Montague Bicycle Trail is historically significant as one of Michigan's first paved "Rails to Trails" projects, opening in 1991. It's officially named the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park, honoring William Field, a local fruit farmer who donated the abandoned rail corridor to the state for its creation.

Beyond the natural beauty, consider stopping at Country Dairy in New Era for delicious food and homemade ice cream. You can also look out for the impressive world's largest working weathervane in Montague and the Little Sable Point Lighthouse which is accessible from the trail area.

The Hart-Montague Bicycle Trail is primarily an out-and-back trail, stretching approximately 22 miles (35 km) between the towns of Hart and Montague. While it connects to other trails at its southern end, the main Hart-Montague section is linear.