The best running trails in Mason County

The Big M Mountain Bike Trail offers a diverse and challenging jogging experience through the beautiful canopied hardwoods and logged stands of the Manistee National Forest. You'll navigate rolling hills, a mix of singletrack and doubletrack, and encounter a sandy base from glacial moraines, with roots and rocks becoming more prevalent near the North Country Trail. This difficult 16.7-mile (26.8 km) route, with 970 feet (295 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes, making it ideal for experienced trail runners.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Big M Recreation Area trails are well-marked. The parking lot is plowed in winter, and a chalet provides amenities at the trailhead. Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be leashed. While accessible year-round, checking trail conditions, especially for sandy sections or winter snow, is advisable for the best experience.

This extensive trail system, known for hosting the Lumberjack 100 endurance mountain biking race, is a popular year-round destination. Its varied terrain, shaped by glacial retreat, offers segments ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring a suitable challenge for different fitness levels. The connection to the broader North Country Trail also adds to its appeal for longer adventures.

The Lighthouse Trail offers a refreshing escape for joggers, leading you towards the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. This moderate 6.5-mile (10.4 km) route features a gentle 116 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, making it a great option for a consistent run. Expect to complete the journey in around 1 hour and 14 minutes, enjoying the path that also incorporates the scenic Island Trail.

For your visit, ensure you're prepared for a moderate jogging effort. While specific parking details aren't provided, plan to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot. Always carry sufficient water, especially if jogging during warmer parts of the day, and check local conditions before you head out.

This trail stands out as a fantastic option for those seeking a rewarding destination without a demanding climb. Its designation as a jogging route suggests a generally runnable surface, providing a straightforward and enjoyable experience for runners of various fitness levels in the Mason County area.

The Sable River Trail – Big Sable River loop offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, perfect for a moderate 8.7-mile (13.9 km) jog. You'll find yourself gliding along accessible boardwalks and paved paths beside the Big Sable River, where interpretive panels share local history and wildlife like river otters and Bald Eagles might make an appearance. The route then expands into the scenic sand dunes of Ludington State Park, providing a varied and engaging experience over its 1 hour and 40 minute duration.

To enjoy this route, head to Ludington State Park. While the Sable River Trail itself is quite easy, the full loop is rated moderate due to some sections involving stair climbs and steeper inclines, particularly if you explore the dunes. Parking is available within the state park, but it's wise to arrive early during busy times to secure a spot. The trail is enjoyable in all seasons, with winter offering a chance to spot Bald Eagles.

This trail system is notable for its blend of natural beauty and accessibility, making it a popular choice among Ludington State Park's trails. The improved sections along the river are even wheelchair-friendly in parts, while connecting trails offer stunning Lake Michigan viewpoints from elevated boardwalks. It's a fantastic way to experience the unique ecosystem where Hamlin Lake meets Lake Michigan, with opportunities to extend your run on the park's 21 miles of marked trails.

The Pentwater State Game Area loop offers a delightful jogging experience through heavily wooded terrain, characterized by medium-aged mixed woods on stabilized dunes. You'll navigate soft rolling hills and pass by ephemeral marshes, enjoying the serene atmosphere and abundant wildlife. The mixed forests of red and white pine, oak, and aspen create a beautiful backdrop for your run, especially around the significant Pentwater River Marsh wetland.

This moderate 5.0-mile (8.1 km) jogging route, with its gentle 97 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, can typically be completed in about 59 minutes. The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, with maps at junctions to guide you. As part of the larger Pentwater State Game Area, this loop is exclusively for foot traffic, ensuring a quiet and uninterrupted experience.

The Pentwater State Game Area is ecologically vital, providing critical habitat for a diverse range of species and featuring small wetland vernal pools important for amphibians. The broader Pentwater Pathways system offers various loops, including the more challenging Red Loop with its steepest inclines, allowing you to tailor your jogging adventure. This area retains much of its historic character despite past logging, making it a unique natural escape.