The best cycling routes in Newaygo County

Newaygo County offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes. Our guide features 7 routes, including 1 easy, 4 moderate, and 2 difficult paths, catering to various skill levels. Overall, the region provides over 150 miles of trails suitable for cyclists.

You can expect varied terrain, from dedicated trails winding around large bodies of water like Hardy Pond to sections of longer scenic routes through extensive national forests. Many trails incorporate gravel roads and paved connectors, offering a mix of surfaces ideal for touring cyclists. The region is characterized by its numerous rivers, streams, and inland lakes, providing picturesque backdrops.

Newaygo County's routes often feature stunning natural beauty. You can cycle alongside the world-class Muskegon River, the designated Michigan Natural River, White River, or around large bodies of water such as Croton Pond and Hardy Pond. The region also includes over 100,000 acres of national forest, offering immersive experiences in nature. The Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary is another notable natural attraction.

Yes, for those seeking a long-distance experience, the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail is a prominent option, stretching over 111 miles (179.6 km) and typically taking over 10 hours to complete. This route offers a comprehensive journey through diverse Michigan landscapes.

Yes, Newaygo County offers several excellent loop routes. A popular choice is the Fred Meijer White Pine and Pere Marquette Trails Loop, a challenging 55-mile (88.7 km) path combining two major trail systems. For a shorter option, consider the Hardy Dam Pond loop from Hardy Dam, which is about 19 miles (30.5 km).

Many routes offer convenient access. For example, the Hardy Dam Pond loops can be accessed from areas like Hardy Dam itself, Newaygo State Park, or Big Prairie Township. The North Country Trail also has access points, such as near the White Cloud Campground. Additionally, county parks often provide day-use and campground facilities. For more information on county parks, you can visit newaygocountymi.gov.

The Dragon at Hardy Dam is a significant trail system winding around Hardy Pond, with plans for nearly 50 miles of singletrack. While primarily known as a mountain bike trail, its length and scenic route around the pond, with sections offering excellent flow, can be appealing for touring cyclists looking for a dedicated, off-road experience, especially on gravel or off-road touring bikes. Sections around Newaygo State Park and Brower Park are part of this trail.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, including extensive national forests, picturesque rivers like the Muskegon, and large inland lakes such as Hardy Pond. The variety of routes, from easy to difficult, also contributes to its appeal, with over 140 touring cyclists having explored the region using komoot.

Yes, several moderate routes are ideal for a half-day tour. The Rockford Dam – White Pine Trail loop from Troy is a moderate 24-mile (38.9 km) route that can be completed in around 2 hours 15 minutes. Another option is the Hardy Dam Pond loop from Big Prairie Township, which is about 24 miles (39 km) and takes approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.

Newaygo County offers great cycling opportunities across multiple seasons. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring showcasing wildflowers and fall displaying vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, offering opportunities to combine cycling with water-based activities on the numerous lakes and rivers. While some trails may be accessible, winter biking would require specific gear and conditions.

Yes, Newaygo County offers trails suitable for families. For an easier ride, consider the Hardy Dam Pond loop from Big Prairie Township, which is about 10 miles (16.1 km) and has an easy difficulty rating. Many of the county's over 150 miles of trails are well-marked and offer wide-open spaces, making them enjoyable for various skill levels, including beginners and families.