Paint Creek Trail – Rochester River Walk loop from Shelby Charter Township
Paint Creek Trail – Rochester River Walk loop from Shelby Charter Township
4.8
(8549)
8,550
riders
Paint Creek Trail – Rochester River Walk loop from Shelby Charter Township
03:26
56.6km
210m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
8.42 km
Stony Creek Metropark Trolley Trails
Highlight • Trail
11.6 km
Nice view on Creek
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
15.3 km
Stony Creek MTB Trail (#15–#39)
Highlight • MTB Park
32.7 km
Paint Creek Trail Northern Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
45.3 km
Paint Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
47.3 km
Rochester River Walk
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
50.0 km
Bridge Over Paint Creek
Highlight • Bridge
51.8 km
Macomb Orchard Trail: Rochester Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
56.6 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
34.5 km
14.1 km
4.27 km
3.22 km
476 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
34.3 km
9.03 km
7.30 km
5.16 km
700 m
104 m
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (210 m)
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Weather
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial mountain biking adventure that blends natural beauty with urban charm, the Paint Creek Trail – Rochester River Walk loop from Shelby Charter Township is a moderate 35.2-mile (56.6 km) route with 689 feet (210 metres) of climbing, taking around 3 hours and 25 minutes. It's an excellent choice for riders who appreciate a diverse journey through Michigan's pioneering rail-trail network, offering a rewarding day out without overly technical challenges.
What to expect on Paint Creek Trail – Rochester River Walk loop from Shelby Charter Township
This extended route offers a journey through varied landscapes. You'll likely begin on connecting trails like the Clinton River Trail, featuring asphalt or crushed stone surfaces as you head towards Rochester. The Rochester River Walk section, a short paved path, guides you alongside Paint Creek and through Rochester Municipal Park, complete with flower gardens. The heart of the ride is the Paint Creek Trail, Michigan's oldest rail-trail, where you'll cruise on crushed limestone through a scenic, wooded corridor. Expect gentle grades, with a slight uphill heading north and an easier descent returning south, making it suitable for mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, and even e-bikes, offering a generally easy to moderate experience for most riders.
Planning your visit
Starting from Shelby Charter Township, you'll find ample parking to begin your ride. The trail network is well-equipped with amenities; along the Paint Creek Trail, you'll encounter restrooms, water stations, and even free bike fix-it stations at locations like Rochester, Tienken Road, and Goodison. For a mid-ride treat, the Paint Creek Cider Mill is conveniently located along the trail. Wildlife spotting, including muskrats, herons, and deer, is particularly good during early mornings or dusk, making these ideal times to visit.
Trail details
- Distance: 35.2 miles (56.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 689 feet (210 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 25 minutes
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