Michigan Air Line Trail — Attraction in Commerce Charter Township

This past week, I completed the challenging and incredibly rewarding Michigan US Bike Route 1, also known as the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail, this time heading from east to west. Spanning 275 miles from Port Huron on Lake Huron to South Haven on Lake Michigan, the route offers a fantastic cross-section of southern Michigan's landscape, culture, and charming small towns. My goal was a three-day push, which meant long days in the saddle but a profound sense of accomplishment at the end.

Day 1: Lake Huron to the State's Interior The journey began in Port Huron, with the impressive Blue Water Bridge and the expansive St. Clair River providing a dramatic start. The first leg of the trip followed the paved Macomb Orchard Trail, a straight and scenic ride through suburban and rural areas. This section was a great warm-up, a chance to get the legs spinning and settle into a rhythm. The trail eventually gives way to a combination of trail and road segments, offering a taste of the varied terrain to come. I pushed through to the heart of the state, setting up for a long ride on day two.

Day 2: Rail Trails and the Air Line Day two was the longest of the trip, a long haul through the middle of the state. This day was defined by a series of interconnected rail trails, including the Calhoun County Trailway and the Battle Creek Linear Park. The highlight of the day, however, was the section on the Air Line Trail.

Review: Michigan Air Line Trail The Air Line Trail is a gem in the Great Lake-to-Lake system. This rail trail, built on the remnants of the old Michigan Air Line Railroad, is a testament to the state's commitment to non-motorized travel. The surface is exceptionally smooth and well-maintained, perfect for a road bike or hybrid. It provided a fast, comfortable ride, allowing me to cover significant ground without the stress of vehicle traffic. The trail is beautifully scenic, passing by several small lakes and through peaceful wooded areas. It’s a quiet, family-friendly route that feels like a world away from the busy roads just a few miles away. The one drawback for "serious" riders attempting a quick pace is the frequent road crossings, which require a full stop and a eye for traffic. However, for a leisure rider, these provide natural breaks and a chance to take in the surroundings. Overall, the Air Line is a high-quality trail that is a true pleasure to ride and a vital lengthy portion in the cross-state route.

Day 3: The Final Push to Lake Michigan The final day was a test of endurance, with a final long stretch from near Battle Creek to the final destination of South Haven. The route here becomes a mix of dedicated trails, most notably the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail and the Kal-Haven Trail State Park. The final miles on the Kal-Haven felt like a victory lap, a long, straight, and well-paved path through beautiful woods. The landscape began to change as I approached the shores of Lake Michigan. The sight of the iconic lighthouse and the vast freshwater ocean at the end of the trail was a welcome and emotional finish line. Completing the Lake-to-Lake trail in three days, heading west, was an unforgettable experience. It's a challenging journey that showcases the best of Michigan's cycling infrastructure and the state's diverse geography, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a multi-day...

This is a great new rail-to-trail. It is smoothly paved with asphalt. It is a fast 5.5 mile trail from Haggerty Rd. ending at Wixom Rd. in downtown Wixom. It is going to be completed in a year or two and will then connect to the paved rail-to-trail called Huron Valley Trail and so on and so on. It can be a bit too straight and lacking trees. At times you can see the trail for about 1.5 miles ahead of you. Seeing that far ahead of you is not a runner's favorite thing to...

Features a number of street crossings, but they are well-marked so trail users can push the button to cross safely. Trail is well-paved and stretches nearly 6 miles across the communities of Wixom, Walled Lake and...