MI- April 29, 2007- maintenance report Map MI-01 South Segment
Lost Nation State Game Area in Hillsdale County received attention on a joint Chief Noonday Chapter and Chief Baw Beese Chapter workday on April 28. We rerouted trail in two places east of the Gilbert Rd Trailhead and #8 Lake to bypass sections that were very steep and seriously eroded. Hiking in that section is much improved. In addition to building the new sections, we mowed east from Gilbert Rd and south from Skuse Rd as far as we could go with the DR mower.
There are still a number of muddy sections of trail in Lost Nation, especially at this time of the year.
Note that the parking lot for the Pittsford Rd Trailhead is a few hundred feet north of where the NCNST actually takes off from the highway. The entry point of the Trail is blazed. There are two two-tracks departing from the parking area which are not connected with the NCNST.
Our chainsaw crew went over much of the section between Pittsford Rd and Gilbert Rd clearing downfall. Apparently somebody (DNR?) also had been through in recent months and done some chainsawing. So, except for a couple of easy stepovers we didn't get to, that whole section is relatively unobstructed.
There are problems on the section between #5 Lake and Tripp Rd:
(1) There is a DNR shooting range on Way Rd east of Tripp Rd which uses the ridge as a backdrop -- and the hiking trail goes along the top of that ridge. Since use of the shooting range includes skeet shooting, it is strongly recommended that you avoid this section on weekends or whenever the sound of gunfire indicates that the range is in use.
(2) There is a fair-sized creek running alongside Tripp Rd at the west end of this trail section which is normally crossed on stepping stones. At this time of the year the creek is high and wide and flowing vigorously, the mossy stepping stones are under a good foot of water, and the crossing would be difficult even for the booted-and-steady-footed. There are plans for an Eagle Scout project to put in a bridge here eventually.
We removed a downed tree between Trail Rd and Tripp Rd, and that whole two-track section is clear, unobstructed, and a nice easy walk.
The section across private land from Bird Lake Rd to Black Rd is marked "No Trespassing," and whether the landowners are permitting public access is unclear. Otherwise, except for a couple of downed trees, that section is clear and nice to walk on. Pending clarification of whether that section is open to the public, alternatively you can make a roadwalk from the Trail Rd Trailhead west on Trail Rd onto Bird Lake Rd and on up to Osseo, then west to the old railroad bed which starts at Black Bridge Rd.
The NCNST in the Lost Nation SGA is a really nice hike and well worth the time. Boots are recommended.
Report made by Mick Hawkins, Chief Noonday Chapter
MI- October 27, 2006- hiker report Map MI-01 South Segment
Walked the NCT in Hillsdale Co. (Baw Beese Chapter) from where it enters Lost Nations State Forest on Pittsford Rd (between Squawfield Rd and Skuse Rd), all the way into Hillsdale. I think it is a 17-20 mile stretch. Trail is in good condition, not too wet. Confusing moment when trail intersects with Reading Rd. for a quarter of mile or so before re-entering Lost Nations. This needs to marked better.
Trail markers also need remarking in the Wasnich area. When you get to Bird Lk Rd you leave Lost Nations and cross some private land (Wasnich) that has given an easment to NCT. I have walked it before so could follow markers. If it was the first time you would be somewhat lost. The blue paint is faded and markers are hard to find. Other than that the trail was in good shape, fall colors are beautiful, we picked up small branches that had fallen on trail but there are no major obstacles. There is a small stretch of road you traverse on Blackbridge Rd after you leave Wasnich section and before you get to the bike trail. It is less than 2 miles and has few houses on it.
Report made by Bonnie DeRose, hiker
MI- June 15, 2006- report from Chief Noonday Chapter - near Battle Creek Map MI-02 South Segment
The NCT as it enters Kimball Pines, southeast of Battle Creek, will be difficult to follow thru the park area for the next month or so (thru July 06) as the park is being developed into the Silver Leaf Renaissance Faire site. In addition plans include the addition of a primative campground which will be a plus for long distance hikers on the NCT. As soon as the development is complete the NCT will be rerouted. In the meantime, for any long distance hikers, you will need to weave your way around traveling north/south, under or through whatever barriers you may come upon.
Report made by Tom Garnett
MI- April 21, 2001- report from Chief Noonday Chapter Map MI-02 South Segment
Report made by Charles Krammin
4 miles of trail is now open for hiking on the East side of Battle Creek. On the South it starts on Fdr N,
East of Wattles Rd. where it enters Bridge Park>Riverside Park> Harper Creek School> Kimball Pines>
Ott Preserve> and then roads Jamison> Raymond> Emmett St where it picks up the Battle Creek NCTA
linear Trail. Fdr to Jamison is about 4 miles. The trail is in the Rough but blue blazed and planks at the
wet spots and temporary bridge at creek crossings. Most is wilderness with many thihigs of
interest-flowers, springs, history of early roads and bridges, birds, trains, Kalamazoo River. Trail days will
be held on June 2 at Kimball Pines when the Calhoun County Parks will tell about trails and plans of
the proposed B C to Marshall to Albion to Homer "conceptual Trail" following the Kalamazoo River.
MI- March 1, 2001- Map of newest Chief Noonday section available on-line Map MI-02 North Segment
See map of the trail which connects with Yankee Springs Recreation Area near M179 (Chief Noonday Road) on the south, and M37 (south of Middleville) on the north. For trail conditions contact Charles Krammin, 667 Durkee Rd, Hastings MI 49058, Phone 616 945 2569, or email Charles Krammin
MI- January 16, 2001- Updates in Chief Noonday Chapter sections Map MI-02 North and South Segments
For trail conditions contact Charles Krammin, 667 Durkee Rd, Hastings MI 49058, Phone 616 945 2569, or email Charles Krammin
The Chief Noonday Chapter responsibility starts at the Barry- Kent County line at 108th avenue and Wood School Road or Baker Road in Kent County. The nearest village is Freeport, which is 2 ½ miles East on 108th. Parking is available at the Audubon Society lot on 108th or the Trout Unlimited property just North of the Coldwater River on Baker road. The next trail to the North is in the Lowell State Game Area, which is 12 miles North of Freeport. Overnight camping is available at
Tyler Creek Golf Course on M50 2 miles North and 1-½ miles East. Unapproved camping sites are along the Coldwater River and the Audubon Society. Water is available at either site but needs treatment. Most facilities are available at Freeport. The North Country Trail office will be located in Lowell after February 2001.
As of January 2001, the trail from 108th to Irving is not marked and is
temporarily on roads: West 1 ½ miles to Solomon Rd., South 5 miles to Grange,
West 1 ¼ miles to State road, NW ½ miles to McCann road, South ¾ miles to
bridge over Thornapple River at Irving, West ¼ mile to McCann road again, then
South 1 mile to M37, West 7/8 miles to
Peets road, South ½ mile to Barry State Game Area, kiosk, trailhead, map and
marked trail. This is about 11 miles. The Paul Henry bike trail follows the rails to
trails, from Middleville, Irving, to Irving road. The Whispering Woods Campground
is 2 miles East of Irving on the Paul Henry trail. There are no facilities at Irving.
Middleville, 4 miles North on the Paul Henry trail, has all facilities.
A more scenic route that can be currently be followed, and is currently being
considered, is east and South thru the Middleville State Game Area to Middleville
and then follow the Paul Henry bike trail to Irving. Most of the trail thru the
Middleville State game Area is on two tracks and gravel roads, because of
problems of constructing new trails thru the game wilderness. The complete Area
however is open to the public, and if you can use a compass, enjoy a beautiful hike
thru oak trees and hills. Hunters use this Area extensively and necessary safety
measures of blaze orange apparel during hunting seasons should be worn. The law
requires hunters to wear this color during deer firearm season of November 15
thru the 30th. Use your discretion of wearing blaze orange from October to
January and then the month of May. Part of the road trail is also a snowmobile
trail.
From 108th go East 1 ½ miles to Solomon road, South ½ mile to two-track entrance thru game area, West 1 mile to Harris Creek road, South ½ mile to Parmalee road, 100 feet West to gated two tracks, South 1 mile on two tracks to Johnson and Garbow road. Don't be intimidated by the "no trespassing" signs as this is now a public road (except where the gate is). Legally this Johnson road intersects where Harriss Creek intersects Parmalee road. Continue 1 mile South
on graveled Johnson road to Crane road, West 3 miles on gravel and two track Crane road to Grand Rapids street, South 1 mile to Main street, West 3/8 mile to
Paul Henry Trail, South and East 4 ½ miles to McCann road, South 1 mile to M37, West ½ mile to Peets road, South ½ mile to Barry State Game Area trailhead and
start of marked trail. The Paul Henry trail is closed for November, South to Loop
road. Use alternate roads of main Irving South to Loop road and south to trail.
email Charles Krammin
MI- July 29, 2007- White Pine Trail Map MI-03 North Segment
The portion of the White Pine Trail that is concurrent with the NCT, from Russell Road (near the intersection of US 131 and M57 is being paved. There may be closures. The trail is already paved south of Russell Road.
From the MI DNR, see White Pine / NCT Section to be Paved
MI- August 22, 2006- M-37 to Croton Dam (MI) Map MI-03 North Segment
I hiked today from the roadside park south of White Cloud on M-37 to Croton Dam. There was a problem at the NW corner of Twinwood Lake, where there was a re-route. The new blazes clearly guided me across the railroad tracks onto Basswood Ave., but because I could not find the next blaze, I had to retrace my steps and follow the old NCT which followed the northern shore of Twinwood Lake. This was a mistake since I was forced to follow a roadwalk for several miles to Poplar Ave., where I again picked up the trail. Later, after consulting the website, I found out that there was a re-route further down Basswood Ave. It would be VERY helpful to have more blazes down Basswood Ave., so that future hikers don't make the same mistake.
Submitted by Alan Fark, hiker
MI- Sept 3, 2002- Rogue River State Game Area (MI) Map MI-03 North Segment
The trail in this area is undergoing some relocation and upgrading. Conditions report is from north to south.
South of 22 Mile Road the trail is in good condition. Puncheon was
installed in the spring of 2002 in the low areas near hickory creek (1
mile south). Blazing was updated fall of 2002.
About .25 miles south of the second bridge (hickory creek), the trail
follows an abandoned two track. Blazing is minimal to non-existent. This
"road walk" will be eliminated by May 2003 with new tread to the west.
Follow the two track south for about .75 miles to find newly installed
tread.
The new pathway enters the woods to the right just after a very large
blow down on the side of the two track. This new tread continues for
approximately 1.5 miles to 20 Mile Road. Blazing and clearing is
complete. Tread work is 2/3rds complete (as of 9/3/02) and will be
finished by May 2003. Northbound hikers should note that the woods road
is currently blazed north of 20 Mile. While there is new trail in the
woods just to the west, the road will not be de-blazed until all
sections of re-routing are complete.
South of 20 Mile Road, the trail takes a jog to the left (80') and
follows a woods road for .25 miles, passing some unattractive ORV
obstructions afterwards. Plans are for this section to be rerouted to
the west in early summer 2003. After the ORV obstructions, the trail
continues in good condition for just under two miles. Blazing was
updated in the fall of 2002. New puncheon (in low spot) and side hill
tread near Spring Creek was installed in the spring of 2002, as well as
a short relocation around a trashy parking area. A plank bridge at the
southern end of this section needs replacement, but is still serviceable.
The trail south of 18 Mile Road has not been maintained since September 2001. Plans are to abandon these sections, as private land easements
will require the trail to head east, not south. Many of these pathways
are "maintained" by horse and ORV traffic, but may not be up to hiker
standards. Hike this section at your own risk. The proposed eastern
reroute will be approximately 2 miles in length and will be completed in 2004.
Contact Paul Haan, Rogue River Maintainer, Western Michigan Chapter.
MI- December 8, 2004- Manistee National Forest, Newaygo County, MI-03, MI-04
There are three notable conditions to report in the Manistee National Forest in Newaygo County. They are listed below from south to north.
Map MI-03 North Segment: West of Poplar Avenue, there has been a relocation of the trail off of paved and sometimes busy roads. The relocation begins 0.8 miles west of Poplar and continues for 2.1 miles. The new trail continues south of the former trail, across a new bridge at Bigelow Creek, and exits the woods onto 56th Street, a dirt road. From there, follow 56th Street west just under 0.2 miles, turning north on Basswood Avenue, a dirt road. Follow Basswood Avenue north for 1.75 miles, where the trail ducks off into the woods on the east side of the road north of Twinwood Lake. Here the existing trail resumes, crossing Basswood Avenue another 0.15 miles north and heading west to cross M-37. This section is well blazed and easy to follow in the woods, but care should be taken when following the roads as blazing is minimal.
South of Baseline Road there has been some recent beaver activity on Rattlesnake Creek. Beaver damming has caused the creek to flow over the old forest road on which the trail crosses Rattlesnake Creek. The problem here fluctuates and at times crossing is easy. At the worst, the crossing will result in wet boots, as the creek is rather small. Installation of a temporary puncheon bridge is being explored. The best solution at this time is to seek a crossing near the beaver dam / forest road.
Map MI-04 South Segment: North of 16 Mile Road at the far north end of Newaygo County, there has been a significant reroute of the trail off of a rutted, muddy two track. The reroute begins about 0.4 miles north of 16 Mile and continues nearly 2.0 miles until just south of 96th Street. The reroute is complete, but blazing is minimal and needs improvement for fall and winter hikers. Take care when hiking this section. Blazing is to be improved in the spring of 2005.
Map MI-04 South Segment: There is also a new bridge south of 16 Mile Road, replacing an existing but hazardous bridge.
Submitted by Paul Haan, West Michigan Chapter
MI- December 8, 2004- Update on Rogue River SGA Map MI-03 North Segment
Within Rogue River State Game Area (Kent County), the relocation east of Red Pine Avenue scheduled for 2004 and noted below was not completed at request of the DNR. It is uncertain when further relocation will be permitted in the Rogue River State Game Area, if at all. The trail north of 18 Mile Road to 22 Mile Road is well maintained and saw installation of one puncheon bridge over a seasonal drainage this past summer.
Submitted by Paul Haan, Rogue River Maintainer
MI- August 31, 2006 - Spur Trail Re-Opened Map MI-04 North Segment
In the Manistee National Forest, the spur trail from Bowman Bridge Campground to the NCT (5 miles west of Baldwin,Michigan) is now open again.
The spur was closed over a year ago by the Forest Service due to a severe blowdown. The trail has now been cleared of debris. On Labor Day weekend, 2006 it will be freshly blazed with white 2"x6" rectangular paint blazes and a new directional sign post will be placed at the spur-NCT junction. The spur trail corridor will also be brushed to a four foot width and appropiate signage will be placed on the c'posts (brown fiberglass marker posts).
This spur trail and the NCT south of 56th Street is closed to bicycle traffic. Anyone who cycles should make note of this.
Also note that in the same area, the NCT crossing at 56th Steet is being finally relocated to accomodate road and road berm work done several years ago. The NCT south of 56th Street (Bowman Trailhead)is completed. The trail north of 56th Street from the road to the tree line will be built over this Labor Day weekend.
On the north side of 56th Street, the NCT is closed to bicycle traffic between 56th Street and the spur trail to Bowman TH. Signage was installed in June, 2006 but cyclists persist in riding the trail. Anyone who cycles should make note of this.
Contact Rich Krieger, Maintainer
MI- April 8, 2006 - Temporary Reroute Map MI-04 North Segment
Due to the discontinued use of a short section of NCT located on private property, there is a short, temporary reroute located between Freesoil Trailhead and 5-Mile Road. Watch for temporary blazing and flagging, and PLEASE use this alternate route at the current time.
Contact Kathy Bietau, US Forest Service.
MI- July 23, 2002 - Bear Sighting Map MI-04 North Segment
While vacationing in the Baldwin MI area last week I decided to hike the segment from Highbanks Lake to Star Lake Rd. About a mile
north of 16 Mile Rd I came upon a sow Black Bear and her cub. Being an occasional bear hunter, this was not a frightening experience
for me, rather very exciting. I've never seen a bear in Lower MI. She was about 30 yds in front of me on the trail with the cub following
right behind. When she became aware of me she whoofed to her cub and darted off the trail through the ferns with the cub in tow. Contact Dale Rosema.
MI- August 19, 2007- Red Bridge to Marilla Map MI-05 South Segment
Red Bridge to Marilla:
Hiked the NCT from Red Bridge (north of Tippy Dam) to Marilla Trailhead (Hodenpyl Dam)on Friday, Aug 17, 2007. Looped back on the Manistee River trail on east side of Manistee River on Sat Aug 18. NCT was in excellent condition and well marked. Conditions were very dry. The Governor issued at burning ban-- hopefully hikers will comply. The area is very dry. Only encountered 2 other hikers all day, no mountain bikers, however did notice bike tracks on the trail. Just want to remind hikers to "leave no trace". Saw way too much toilet paper tucked near trees off the trail!
All in all, it was a beautiful hike. My recommendation-- if you do the loop, start at Red Bridge and go north on NCT, then back on Manistee River Trail. There's no water sources on the NCT portion of the trail until you get to Eddington Creek. It only took me 3 hours to hike from Red Bridge to Eddington Creek so there's plenty of time to cross the river and find a nice campsite on the Manistee river side. If you want a really quiet night, camp on the west side of the river off the NCT, but you'll have to carry water. Camping on the east side of the river was a bit noisy during the night (lots of people). I'm betting a mid week hike would have been really quiet!
Report made by Laurie Snedeker
MI- May 10, 2007- report from Spirit of the Woods Chapter - Riverside Drive to Koenig Road Map MI-05 South Segment
The North Country National Scenic Trail in Mason County from Riverside Drive (east Campbell Road and southeast of Nine mile Bridge) to Koenig Road (Dead Horse Marsh or FR 5331) has been re-opened. This section was closed by a major wind event last October.
Report made by Ramona Venegas,Manistee Ranger District, Manistee National Forest
MI- June 29, 2005- Hiker Report- NCT, Manistee River Trail Loop Map MI-05 South Segment
NCT Trail was very nice this weekend (May 20-22). We finished the trail on one day on Friday 5/20. Trail was dry, trees and brush were cleared from the trail. The trail was well defined and blue markers were freshly painted on trees. Minimal trail erosion noticed. The one water source at the beginning of the trail was easily accessible. Trail was very serene and peaceful. In the 8 mile section we hiked, we encountered 6 people total.
Submitted by Chris Chevala
MI- April 11, 2005- Manistee National Forest, Marilla TH, Map MI-05 South Segment
Logging is done and the trailhead is again open for public use. The Forest Service has removed the temporary NCT reroute flagging. Some posts they installed to hold signs remain however as the ground is still too frozen for their removal.
Submitted by Rich Krieger, Spirit of the Woods Chapter
MI- October 29, 2004- Temporary reroute and parking at Marilla TH Map MI-05 South Segment
see entry April 11, 2005 |
The Marilla Trailhead on Beers Road, Manistee County, will be closed beginning Nov. 8th thru March 1 for hiker safety during an active timber sale. A temporary route will be flagged with ribbons on trees to the east of the Red pine plantation up a draw. The re-route will be about 1/4 mile in length. Parking will be on the northeast side of the road at the top of the hill as you head east toward Mesick, at a Forest Service two-track. However, this will not be plowed in the winter. Parking along the road is NOT recommended. There will be no parking fee at this temporary trailhead. When the timber harvest is complete, the regular parking lot will be enlarged a bit and some of the Red pine row-effect will be lessoned. The trail will then be returned to it's original route.
Submitted by Ramona Venegas, Manistee Ranger District, Manistee National Forest
|
MI- September 13, 2004- Bees Nest Between High Bridge and Blacksmith Bayou Map MI-05 South Segment
Map MI-04 South Segment: On the NCT north of M55 in the Manistee National Forest between High Bridge Road and Leitch Bayou.....about 2 miles northbound from High Bridge Road the trail follows a knife edge ridge for maybe 100 yards and a person basically has to stay on the trail tread. Right about dead center of this section is a good sized tree with a hollow in it's trunk where honey bees have made a cozy home for the second year. The nest is about 5'6" off the ground and perhaps 24-30" from the center of the trail.
Be cautious here.
Submitted by Rich Krieger, Spirit of the Woods Chapter
MI- Oct 4, 2000- Chicago Ave, Manistee National Forest, Michigan Map MI-05 South Segment
There is a serious problem with a landowner along a section of the trail east of Manistee between the Highbridge and Udell Trailheads (north of M-55). The trail has been temporarily re-routed on roads. If you are walking north to south, when you come out of the forest on to Chicago Ave, stay ON THE ROAD. Turn south on Michigan Ave till Cedar Creek Road. Turn west (right) on this road till you come again to the trail. If you are hiking from the south, about one mile after leaving the Udell Trailhead the trail will temporarily turn east on Cedar Creek Rd, then north on Michigan Ave, and east again on Chicago Ave before turning north again into the forest. This situation is volatile. Please STAY ON THE ROADS. The Forest Service, NCTA, and local Chapter are looking into better solutions. For more information contact Ramona Venegas, Manistee District Ranger, at 231-723-2211. Posted by Joan Young
MI- Sept 23, 2007- Highbanks Rollway Map MI-05 North Segment
Highbanks Rollway overlook eastward to Wexford County No. 31 Road:
Conditions of NCT in northern Wexford County, Michigan, from Highbanks Rollway overlook eastward to Wexford County No. 31 Road as of September 19, 2007:
The Highbanks Rollway overlook is accessible by automobile as well as via the trail. The Grand Traverse Hiking Club Chapter has developed an excellent overlook platform that allows visitors to enjoy the view of the Manistee River and surrounding hills. It is said that one can see 15 miles!
The platform and long railing do much to prevent the erosion that would be caused by visitors going down to the river and climbing back up the very high hill. There is evidence, especially at the eastern end of the rail, that some unthinking persons have done so anyway. (The rail on the eastern side of the overlook platform is considerable shorter than the rail on the western side.)
Also, someone has removed the NCT logo on the short spur trail that leads from the parking area to the overlook platform and the NCT itself.
Two kiosks at the overlook area give a good summary of the NCT and the Grand Traverse Hiking Club Chapter. This sort of thing can help to make the trail better known and to build support for it. Visitors are invited to become members of the NCT and/or the Chapter. It would be helpful to have clearer instructions on how to do this, or even a supply of membership forms available, if the logistics of keeping the forms supplied and preventing abuses would not be too burdensome.
Heading east from the overlook, the trail is in very good condition all the way to Wexford County No. 29 1/2 Road just north of Baxter Bridge. Excellent signage at strategic points indicate mileage to various points of interest. Good design, top-notch construction and solid maintenance on the part of the Grand Traverse Chapter are evident.
Only two small trees have fallen over the trail in this section. (I was able to remove a third - smaller - fallen tree, but the other two were too heavy for me to move.) The treadway is clear and not overgrown. Bridges facilitate the crossing of several springs or small streams. Blue rectangular blazes at appropriate intervals show the way. It appears that someone has updated the blue round blazes (which the Michigan Department of Natural Resources seems to prefer) by painting rectangles on top of the circles, sometimes resulting in a slight bulge in the middle of the rectangle. Not a big deal.
Grand Traverse Hiking Club is to be commended for its work both on the overlook and on this section of the trail.
When the trail reaches No. 29 1/2 Road, one must follow the road for a few miles. There is a post with a blue blaze directly across the road from where the trail emerges, but no indication of where to go from there. Hikers not equipped with good directions or a good trail map would be confused.
(One should go north on No. 29 1/2 Road until it ends at County Line Road, then turn east and follow County Line Road to where it ends at No. 31 Road, then turn south on No. 31 Road and take it a very short distance to where the off-road trail starts up again. It is a scenic road walk past old farms and some newer rural residences. It is not an unpleasant walk.)
Besides the single post on No. 29 1/2 Road, I saw no additional blaze or marker visible anywhere on this road. Nor does County Line Road have any visible marker until a mile or so before the end of the road walk, when sporadic blue blazes begin to show up on some roadside electric poles. Finally, just before No. 31 Road, there is even a small NCT logo. But at the intersection of County Line and No. 31 Roads, there is no indication of which way to turn.
The off-road continuation of the trail is well marked, but this part of the trail does not seem to be used as much as the part west of No. 29 1/2 Road.
All in all, it was a most pleasant hike. I came across three other hikers on the trail - a good sign that others know about and enjoy using this part of the NCT. My gratitude to the Grand Traverse Chapter for helping to provide such a good experience.
Report made by Thomas Taylor
MI- May 23, 2007- Baxter Bridge to Highbanks Rollway Map MI-05 North Segment
Baxter Bridge to Highbanks Rollway:
I hiked Baxter Bridge to High Rollaways trail this morning. Trail was in excellent condition. The shades of green are amazing right now. Lots of wildflowers and many song birds singing. Very nice trail. Very well maintained and a nice hike.
Report made by Mark Lindsay
MI- Jan 10, 2007- Dell Road section Map MI-05 North Segment
Dell Road section:
My wife and I did the Dell Road section (south of Summit City, MI) on Jan. 07,2007. Beautiful day, still without snow. We went in, heading east about 4 miles, and aside from standing water in the ruts left by 4 wheelers in old two track, trail was in great shape. Footbridges and steps are in great condition with no erosion. Trail markers are spaced quite far apart but trail is easily followed. Some beaver activity in poplar stands above the Manistee River. Fantastic! Love the section where Sands(?) Creek enters the Manistee. We have to get maps. Kudos to trail maintainer(s).
Report made by Stephen Hammontree
MI- Jan 1, 2007- Baxter Bridge to Highbanks Rollway Map MI-05 North Segment
Baxter Bridge to Highbanks Rollway:
We did the 2.7 mile stretch of trail from Baxter Bridge to the High Rollaways (Grand Traverse/Wexford Counties of Michigan) and although there isn't any snow (Darn) there is some surface clay hill sections that are quite slippery. Markers are great and there are no washouts. Beautiful!!!
Report made by Stephen Hammontree
MI- April 2, 2002- Campground on US 131 to M-37 Map MI-05 North Segment
Old US 131 Campground to Baxter Bridge:
The section of trail between is in great shape and almost totally free of snow. The trail is generally
well marked with the number and frequency of blue blazes about right. We did, however, stumble
across one ambiguous section that had recently been rerouted around private property and was not
obviously marked, resulting in about 1/2 mile of backtracking.
The final 2.5 miles of road hiking can be avoided by spotting a vehicle at the trails end on No. 2 Road and then simply
driving to Baxter Bridge Campground (if that’s your destination). During this time of year the road was a muddy slog but
certainly has the potential to be a dust bowl in the summer months.
Judging by the amount of drive-thru traffic at the Baxter Bridge Campground (we were the only ones
camping), we assumed it to be a favorite destination of local youth (read: party spot). It also appears
to get a great deal of summer use. Don’t expect and peaceful experience in warmer months.
Baxter Bridge to M-37:
Our group worked off Wes Boyd’s trail description and map of this route. Prepared to break up this 14.4 mile section into a
ten mile chunk on Saturday and a short four mile jaunt on Sunday, we were shocked to see the NCT trail mileage sign
indicating 21.6 miles to M-37! I’m trying to verify which of these mileage statements is correct and will report my findings at
a later date.
In either case, the giant hills on this route offer tough hiking and spectacular views. Boyd eludes to this in his description,
but SAYS NOTHING ABOUT THE LACK OF WATER ON THIS ROUTE! The trail follows the top of a several hundred-foot
ridge overlooking the river valley; though you are near the river most of the time, you can’t get to it.
There are only three spots on this segment where water is accessible:
- When the trail first descends from the bluff (a few miles before reaching Anderson Creek).
- Anderson Creek (8.7 miles from Baxter Bridge, according to Boyd)
- Wheeler Creek (3/4 mile before reaching M-37).
Unfortunately, topo maps of this area do not show the location of the NCT—beware! Note there are no campsites or access
to water between Anderson Creek and Wheeler Creek! Our group made the mistake of assuming there would be, and as a
consequence, were forced to hike to M-37, arriving near dark. It would have been nice of Boyd to add this little tidbit in his
description…
some bad spots. A significant number of miles are still
covered in snow. There is also evidence of equestrian traffic (near the newly-constructed overlook deck accessed from an
unknown dirt road--No. 24 Rd.?), ATV traffic on the wider parts of the single-track trail (especially between Anderson Creek
and Wheeler Creek), and snowmobile use (along the majority of the pathway). In my opinion, there should be signs posted
here ASAP prohibiting this activity before the trail is completely taken over and destroyed.
For the most part, the trail here is well-marked and easy to follow. Blazes are about right, but watch
for a section near No. 17 Rd. where some of the blue blazes were at one time painted over in black.
Report made by Bentley Whitman
MI- April 16, 2001- Hiker Report- Manistee National Forest Map MI-05 North Segment
Report made by Bentley Whitman. This trail was hiked over three days April 12th-14th, 2001. I also found the topographic map set (maps B-2, B-1, A-2, and A-1 were used for this
route) of this segment were quite accurate and helpful. These are a great resource I
would recommend anyone hiking this portion of the trail to own. [NCTA Manistee Forest North Mapset no longer available]
NINE MILE BRIDGE TO TIMBER CREEK (US 10)
Whoever recently blazed this segment of the trail did a fantastic job! Blazes and
markers were easily recognizable but not too frequent and the posts marking the road
crossings were all in good shape (the road names on the carsonite posts were a nice
touch). Thank you!
NINE MILE BRIDGE TO CR 5331
This section is in good shape, though there are a few small blow-downs that require
high-stepping to clear them. No major problems.
CR 5331 TO FREESOIL RD.
Another fairly dry stretch of trail with a few more blow-downs. In the denser-forested
areas, the trail can be somewhat difficult to follow due to the high number of fallen
leaves and the lack of traffic.
A very wet section of the old railroad grade just before Freesoil Rd. is passable but at
least one boardwalk lies a few inches under water.
FREESOIL RD. TO FIVE MILE RD.
The beginning of this segment is quite dry and crosses a larger number of two-track
roads than indicated on the map. Our first camp was made at the northeast end of
the unnamed L-shaped lake roughly halfway between the two roads. There are fair
campsites in this area and the lake is a good source of water (though I’ve drank
better). Immediately south of the L-shaped lake, however, the trail gets wet and must be
skirted around in a few place where it comes too close to the marshlands.
FIVE MILE RD. TO FIVE MILE RD.
There are many regularly-spaced Carsonite posts along this uneventful road hike.
FIVE MILE RD. TO THREE MILE RD.
The bridge over the Grand Sable River is in great shape and well above the level of
the river. The trail is solid on either side of the bridge. Even in spring, this high spot on the trail is nearly dry of any water.
THREE MILE RD. TO CENTERLINE RD.
We made our second camp on the north side of McCarthy Lake. There are several
good sites here with easy access to the lake. Since the area is accessed by a
two-track, however, expect heavy use in the summer months. Though this flooded area is higher than normal due to spring run-off, the trail around
Beaver Pond is high and dry
CENTERLINE RD. TO TIMBER CREEK (US 10)
The highest segment of our hike, the trail climbs into the Ward Hills and is easily discernable from the numerous game trails nearby. As expected, this area is also quite dry.
MI- October 8, 2006- Twentytwo Creek to Scheck's Place, Map MI-06 South Segment
We started off through scrubby, second growth young oak and pine on a bluff above the south side of the valley of Twentytwo Creek, which at this point was a wide wetland. While the new trail is hiking (and biking, unfortunately) only, since this is a state forest with many uses allowed, we crisscrossed a motorcycle trail several times in this first mile. 3 motorcycles passed by as we had parked. Luckily, we neither encountered nor heard any further ATV's. We did encounter and cross many current and past ATV and horse trails throughout
the hike, however.
We passed a marked campsite/drinking water access site called "John's" that had been designated as part this project, named for our hike leader, John H. About a mile in, down in the valley to our right, a massive beaver dam had widened Twentytwo Creek into a large pond.
Here we descended two switchbacks down to the creek, and entered the "spectacular area where 22 Mile [sic] Creek flows past stands of large old pine and hemlock." I was not disappointed, as I walked beneath some of the tallest white pines, red pines and hemlock I have ever seen in lower Michigan, and along the sandy-bottomed stream gurgling over fallen trees. We also followed a short, puncheoned side trail to a spring in the boggy ground. Also there were several possible campsites
down here. What an absolutely gorgeous and beautiful place...I was gaping
open-jawed as I walked!!! I suspect that the narrowness of the valley here deterred the loggers of a century ago, ensuring the survival of these residents of the "valley of the giants," a new sign proclaimed as we climbed out of this mile-long gorge. We were also able to see for miles as we climbed back atop the bluff.
The next mile was more scrubby, open second growth crisscrossed by dirt roads and trails of varying usage. As we began the final mile, we had to cross a very sandy and open gas pipeline corridor. John, absorbed in conversation with another hiker, missed the sparse blazes here, so most of us took an unplanned break (I think we were supposed to turn left onto the sand dune covered gas line corridor and hike 100-200 yards or so to the new NCT...oh, well).
We hiked up the hill into mature second growth forest, past several signs that read "Please, no horses" (actually there were such signs about 6 feet over the trail at every point wherever the STS passed close by) and two horse barriers (large branches forming vertical X's across the trail) built by the GTH NCTA crew. We reached the edge of the bluff 100 feet above the Boardman River, where there is a newly-built bench offering a great view of the Boardman River valley. We descended the hill to Brown Bridge Road, past several more horse barriers,
crossing the rushing Boardman River back into Scheck's Place Campground.
Submitted by Dave Goodman, hiker
MI- October 25, 2007- Co Rd 612 to Starvation Lake Rd, near Kalkaska Map MI-06 North Segment
Trail continues to be in excellent condition. Blazing was completed. Additional road crossing carsonite and 4x4 post signs where installed late this summer. Infrequent legal mountain bike use has not been any problem. Drinking water, swimming and campsites are avaiable at the Pickeral Lake campground. Enjoy.
Submitted by Dennis Hansen, maintainer
MI- July 7, 2007- Pinney Bridge Campground near Alba Map MI-06 North Segment
Pinney Bridge Campground is closed. Since there is a no camping ban in the Jordan Valley, it is now a day pack area. It is closed till September 30, 2007, at which time the DNR will review the situation (the budget) and decide if it will be open for the next season.
The closing of Pinney Bridge Campground presents a real problem to backpackers who want to hike the 18 mile loop trail. Usually backpackers leave from Deadman's Hill and hike the 8.5 miles to Pinney Bridge Campground for the night and then continue to hike the rest of the loop trail back to their car the next day. Pinney is a walk in campground and no cars have access to it, only hikers are able to use the campground. There is a no camping ban in the rest of Jordan Valley.
It is a catch 22-- this is a backpacking trail with no camping along the whole length of it. The Appalation Trail isn't as severe as that!! Other backpacking trails allow dispersed camping, which means you can camp any where as long as you are 200 feet off the trail and 200' away from water sources. (Some places require 500')
Submitted by Cora Killinger, Tittabawassee Chapter
MI- Oct 24, 2005- E. Jordan Valley, Map MI-06 North Segment
The East Jordan Valley trail which is part of a the north country trail, 45 minutes from the Deadman hill trail head is flooded, need to navigate arround the trail to continue.
Submitted by Ryan Parrish, hiker
Response from the Tittabawassee Chapter- Due to current issues with the Michigan DEQ, we are not able to do trail maintenance in that area at this time. We hope for a successful resolution to the problem soon.
Submitted by Cora Killinger, TBW Trail Work Coordinator
MI- June 2, 2005- Warner Creek Crossing, Map MI-06 North Segment
The Tittabawassee Chapter completed a simple crossing at the O'Brien's Pond outlet in Sept. 2004. It should be passable.
Submitted by Peg Jones, Tittabawassee Chapter
MI- Oct 25, 2003- Warner Creek Bridge Map MI-06 North Segment
see entry June 2, 2005 |
We parked at the Warner Creek Pathway
trailhead on M-32 in Antrim County,Michigan to hike the portion of the NCT which also shares with the Warner Creek Pathway Loop, proceeding on the NCT southwards to where the NCT joins up and shares with the Jordan River Pathway. At O'Brien's Pond and the headwaters of Warner Creek, that bridge or footbridge over Warner Creek is completely out.
Submitted by Heidi Daniels
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MI- July 10, 2003- The NCT in Antrim County Map MI-06 North Segment
west of US-131 that goes through the Jordan Valley has a problem area. The trail between Penny Bridge Campground and Deadman's Hill is under water because beaver have dammed the river by the walk bridge. It is still navigable, but you wade water that is flowing over the walk way that is about 6 inches deep in some places.
North of M-32 there is active logging taking place, but the trail is being monitored and so far a hiker can get through the area by following the blue blazes.
Contact Cora Killinger, Trail Work Coordinator, Titabawassee Chapter
MI- Nov 12, 2007- Johnson to Taylor Roads Map MI-07 South Segment
Cleared several small blow-downs, but there are 5 that require chain saw - 1 with main trunk diameter of nearly 2 feet - should maybe be reblazed around. Intended to do the walk thru w/ Gary Johnson, who had a chainsaw, but unfortunately Gary broke his leg the night before our hike. Of course, after dragging himself out of the woods and driving himself to the hospital, Gary was very apologetic for not being able to participate in our walk-thru the following day! NCTA and especially the Tittabawassee Chapter is very fortunate to have him.
Overall trail condition was pretty good, but there are a few places where a blaze or two could be added. During summer conditions the tread would be easy to follow, but when covered with fall leaves and snow it requires close attention.
Submitted by Dennis Mashue, Maintainer, Tittabawassee Chapter
