The best MTB trails in Forestville Recreation Area
4.6
(13)
1,215
riders
61
rides
Forestville Recreation Area mountain bike trails traverse a landscape characterized by dense forests and rolling hills, offering a classic Upper Peninsula natural setting. The area features varied terrain, including picturesque riverside paths along the Dead River. This extensive network provides a diverse range of mountain biking experiences.
Best mountain bike trails in Forestville Recreation Area
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Blue Heron Overlook – Forestville Recreation Area loop from NTN Forestville Trailhead, a 10.2 miles (16.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers scenic views, including the Blue Heron Overlook.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is View of Dead River loop from Trowbridge Park, a moderate 8.3 miles (13.4 km) path. This route follows riverside paths and provides views of the Dead River.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Top of the World Overlook – Hogback Mountain North Trail loop from Dead River, a 27.7 miles (44.6 km) trail leading through challenging terrain, often completed in about 4 hours 3 minutes.
- Mountain biking in Forestville Recreation Area is defined by dense forests, rolling hills, and riverside paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in Forestville Recreation Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 1000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Forestville Recreation Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
51
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
35
riders
13.4km
01:06
120m
120m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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38
riders
11.5km
01:01
130m
130m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
16
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
11
riders
9.56km
00:52
120m
120m
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
To reach this point, you'll encounter some significant elevation changes, but the effort is rewarded with a breathtaking view of Lake Superior and the Huron Mountains.
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Discover the Lake Superior & Ishpeming Railroad, a historic short line railroad in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Once a major player in the region's iron ore industry, it continues to operate today, though on a smaller scale. From time to time you can catch a line of cars coming through.
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You get a pretty good view of the Dead River (which appears more like a collection of lakes) from the EZ-PZ Trail in a number of spots. There are a bunch of trails crisscrossing each other in this area, but they are all pretty well-marked.
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There are a handful of trails that pass through the area. A bunch of them travel along the shores of the river, and a couple even cross over the river via bridges. The Blue Heron Trail is one of those trails, and it is technically separated into an upper and lower section of trail.
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This part of the Noquemanon Trail is part of the greater Noquemanon Trail System. These are a collection of well-maintained paths that are open to a variety of trail users. Some trails are built with more mountain bike specificity, while others are smooth and wide open.
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You get a pretty good view of the Dead River (which appears more like a collection of lakes) from the EZ-PZ Trail in a number of spots. There are a bunch of trails crisscrossing each other in this area, but they are all pretty well-marked.
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Top of the World is one of Marquette's most renowned overlooks. You can almost drive all the way to the summit when the roads are open and dry, but you can also hike the double-track forest road, which is the more popular approach. You can also connect from the summit to singletrack trails that are popular for creating loops.
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The Hogback Mountain North Trail offers access to the viewing area on the summit of Hogback Mountain from the Clark's Gravel Pit Parking area at Wetmore Landing. This is a longer, more gradual approach up Hogsback compared to the shorter, more popular southern trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Forestville Recreation Area?
The Forestville Recreation Area boasts an extensive network of over 50 miles of trails, with 55 mountain bike routes available on komoot. These trails offer a diverse range of experiences for riders.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Forestville Recreation Area?
Yes, the area provides options for all skill levels. You'll find beginner-friendly paths and wider, less technical trail options, making it a great spot for those new to the sport or looking for an easier ride. Komoot lists 4 easy mountain bike routes in the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails in Forestville Recreation Area?
The trails traverse a landscape characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque riverside paths, particularly along the Dead River. You'll ride through quiet pine forests and rolling hardwoods, offering a classic Upper Peninsula natural setting.
Are there any mountain bike trails with scenic viewpoints or natural features?
Absolutely. Many trails offer scenic views, including the Blue Heron Overlook – Forestville Recreation Area loop from NTN Forestville Trailhead. You can also find routes that follow riverside paths with views of the Dead River, such as the View of Dead River loop from Trowbridge Park. The area is also known for the Dead River Falls, which can be explored via nearby hiking routes.
Are electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) allowed on the trails?
Yes, Class 1-eMTBs (pedal assist up to 20 mph) are permitted on the mountain bike trails within the Forestville Recreation Area.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Forestville Recreation Area?
The Forestville Recreation Area offers all-season trails. While mountain biking is popular during warmer months, the area also transforms in winter, providing groomed trails for fat biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Forestville Recreation Area?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes are designed as loops. For example, the Blue Heron Trail – Upper Blue Heron loop from Trowbridge Park is a popular moderate option, and the Top of the World Overlook – Hogback Mountain North Trail loop from Dead River offers a more challenging loop experience.
Is there parking available for mountain bikers?
Yes, trails are accessible from various points, including the NTN Forestville Trailhead and Trowbridge Park, where parking is available for trail users.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Forestville Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic natural features like the Dead River, and the extensive network that caters to different skill levels.
Are there options for camping near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, the Forestville Rustic Campground offers 15 primitive sites suitable for tents, vans, or small pop-up trailers. These sites provide direct access to the trails and are equipped with fire pits and picnic tables.
Are there any permits or passes required for mountain biking in the Forestville Recreation Area?
The Forestville Recreation Area is part of the Noquemanon Trail Network (NTN). While specific permit requirements can vary, it's advisable to check the NTN's official website for current information regarding passes or fees for trail usage.
Are there any advanced or technical mountain bike trails in the area?
Yes, the Forestville Recreation Area offers technical sections and routes that require advanced riding skills, with some even involving brief bike pushes due to challenging terrain. Komoot lists 37 difficult mountain bike routes for experienced riders.
Most popular routes in Forestville Recreation Area
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