Polly Ann Trail

The terrain varies significantly. In Oakland County, you'll find predominantly crushed stone, with some urban sections featuring asphalt. Other parts have hard-packed earth or smooth dirt. The Lapeer County section, however, is much rougher, often with an unimproved ballast surface that can be uneven, rough, and wet. North of Dryden, it can turn into mown grass with muddy patches, though sections within Dryden Township, Dryden Village, and Imlay City are maintained and include paved stretches.

The Oakland County portion of the trail is generally considered easy to ride, with minimal hills, making it enjoyable for beginners on gravel or hybrid bikes. The Lapeer County section is significantly more challenging due to its rougher surface and is better suited for mountain bikes or fat-tire bikes, especially in unimproved and muddy areas.

The trail offers various access points along its length as it passes through communities like Orion Township, Oxford Township, Oxford Village, Addison Township, Leonard Village, Dryden Township, Dryden Village, and Imlay City. Specific parking areas can be found at trailheads within these communities, such as the Imlay City trailhead.

Yes, the Polly Ann Trail is dog-friendly. It is a multi-use trail open to a variety of non-motorized activities, including walking with dogs. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail for all users.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking on the Polly Ann Trail, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter allows for cross-country skiing, but biking conditions will depend on snow and ice. The Lapeer County section can be particularly wet and muddy in spring or after heavy rains.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to use the Polly Ann Trail. It is a publicly accessible "Pure Michigan Trail" open year-round for non-motorized activities.

The trail offers diverse scenery. In Oakland County, it winds through wetlands and wildlands of the Bald Mountain State Recreation Area, as well as rural landscapes with farms and woodlands. As it progresses into Lapeer County, it becomes more rural, providing views of woods and farms. You might spot wildlife such as horses, deer, and turkeys along the way.

Yes, you can find convenient amenities along the trail. Bike repair stations are available in Civic Center Park, Oxford, and Leonard Village. Restrooms and picnic areas are also located at various points, particularly in the communities the trail passes through.

Yes, the Polly Ann Trail provides crucial connections. Notably, it connects to the Paint Creek Trail via the Amber's Heart Orion Township Connector Trail, expanding biking opportunities. The route also passes through sections of the Iron Belle Trail and the Paint Creek to Polly Ann Trail Connector.

The trail itself is a highlight, known as the Polly Ann Trail, following a historic railroad corridor. You'll also pass by the Indianwood Gold & Country Club and can access the Imlay City trailhead, which serves as a key access point.

Yes, the trail offers direct access to several communities, including Orion Township, Oxford Township, Oxford Village, Addison Township, Leonard Village, Dryden Village, and Imlay City. These communities provide opportunities to easily stop for food, drinks, and other services.