Woodpecker Lake Overlook

This touring cycling loop offers a pleasant journey through Commerce Township, primarily utilizing the flat, well-maintained surfaces of the Michigan Air Line Trail. You'll ride through a mix of suburban landscapes, wooded sections, and past local green spaces, with the highlight being the M-5 Pedestrian Bridge, which provides a safe crossing and connects you to a wider network of trails. It's a moderate 24.1-mile (38.7 km) ride with a gentle 365 feet (111 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 24 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Starting from Temple Israel, you'll find convenient parking to begin your ride. This route is best enjoyed during fair weather, from spring through fall, when the paved surfaces are clear and the scenery is vibrant. As it's a suburban route, access is generally straightforward, and you won't need any special permits or worry about seasonal closures, allowing for flexible planning.

The Commerce Township Bridge – West Maple Road loop is a testament to the region's commitment to non-motorized recreation, leveraging infrastructure like the M-5 Pedestrian Bridge to create a cohesive cycling experience. This bridge is a key part of the larger Great Lake to Lake Trail – Route 1, showcasing how local efforts contribute to a broader vision of interconnected trails across Michigan. It's a great way to explore the expanding network of popular bike trails in Commerce Township, Michigan.

The proposed "Woodpecker Lake Overlook – Heron Rookery Overlook loop from Temple Israel" is listed as a moderate touring cycling route, covering 21.5 miles (34.6 km) with 369 feet (112 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 21 minutes. However, it's important to note that this specific loop is not suitable for touring cycling because the Heron Rookery Trail, a central part of the route, explicitly prohibits bicycles. While the Heron Rookery is known for its spring wildflowers and birdlife along the Little Calumet River, you'll need to explore it on foot.

If you're considering this route, be aware that you cannot cycle the Heron Rookery section. For those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, plan to visit the Heron Rookery as a hiker, especially from late April to mid-May for the best wildflower displays. For cycling, you'll need to find alternative, bike-friendly routes starting from Temple Israel, as this particular loop is not viable for bikes.

The Heron Rookery Trail itself is an easy 3.3-mile hiking path, featuring a packed dirt and clay surface that can get very slippery when wet. It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with kingfishers and woodpeckers often sighted, and was historically home to a large Great Blue Heron rookery. However, its designation as a hiking-only trail means cyclists must seek other options to explore the region.