Fred Meijer White Pine Trail

The trail is a 'rail-trail,' meaning it follows a former railroad bed. This results in a generally flat surface with no grades steeper than 5%. As of spring 2025, the entire 92-mile length is expected to be paved, making it very smooth and easy to navigate.

Yes, absolutely. Its flat grade and largely paved surface make it an easy and accessible trail for hikers of all skill levels, including families with children and those with accessibility needs. It's also ADA-compliant.

The trail offers diverse scenery, transitioning through bustling communities, rural farmland, forests, and natural areas. You'll pass through 15 towns and cities, and can enjoy scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Notable features include historical railroad trestles, like the one over the Muskegon River, and the picturesque Rogue River Dam Overlook.

Beyond the diverse scenery and towns, you'll find several historical railroad trestles, including the longest over the Muskegon River north of Big Rapids. The Rogue River Dam Overlook between Rockford and Cedar Springs is a great spot to pause. There's also a shelter and bike repair stand available, and many towns along the route offer amenities like food, lodging, and camping.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer bring wildflower blooms, while fall offers vibrant foliage. In winter, parts of the trail are open for snowmobiling with sufficient snow, and the southern portion is plowed for hiking, making it accessible even in colder months.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trail. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash and follow any posted regulations or local ordinances regarding pets in state parks or specific sections of the trail.

As the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail is a linear state park, a Michigan Recreation Passport is typically required for vehicle entry to state parks and recreation areas. This passport supports the maintenance of trails and facilities. You can purchase one when renewing your license plate or at state park entrances.

Given its 92-mile length and connection to 15 towns, there are numerous parking areas and trailheads along the entire route from Comstock Park (near Grand Rapids) to Cadillac. Many towns cater to trail users, so you'll find convenient access points in most communities it passes through.

Yes, the route is primarily known as the White Pine Trail State Park, which covers 100% of the route. It also includes sections identified as White Pine Trail (53% and 25% of the route respectively) and a small portion of the Rogue River Trail (1%).

It's Michigan's second-longest rail-trail and the state's longest single paved trail, spanning 92 miles. It's also recognized as the third-longest single paved trail in the country. Its flat, accessible nature, historic rail-trail heritage, and connection to numerous communities make it a significant and popular resource.

Absolutely! While excellent for hiking, the trail is multi-use and also accommodates other non-motorized activities such as biking, jogging, and in-line skating. In winter, certain parts are open for snowmobiling when there's sufficient snow cover.