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Baldy Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Michigan

Benzie County

Baldy Trail

Easy

3.3

(12)

hikers

Baldy Trail

Q: Where is the Baldy Trail located?

This particular Baldy Trail is nestled within the beautiful Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve. It offers a peaceful and accessible outdoor experience.

Q: What is the terrain like on this trail?

The trail is generally easy, with a gentle elevation gain of about 16 meters. You can expect a well-maintained path, suitable for a leisurely hike through the natural preserve.

Q: Is the Baldy Trail suitable for beginners or families?

Absolutely! With its easy difficulty grade and short distance, this trail is perfect for beginners, families with young children, or anyone looking for a relaxed stroll in nature.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Baldy Trail. We kindly ask that you keep your furry friends on a leash at all times and clean up after them to preserve the natural beauty for everyone.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve?

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official preserve website for any updated regulations or special event requirements before your visit.

Q: Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Specific parking information for the Baldy Trailhead within Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve can usually be found on the preserve's official website or local signage. Look for designated parking areas near the main access points to the preserve.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Baldy Trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also great, though it can be warmer, while winter provides a serene, snowy landscape for those prepared for colder weather.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, while primarily following the Baldy Trail, this route also briefly intersects with sections of the 35 (Michigan) trail. This can offer opportunities to explore a bit further if you wish.

Q: What kind of wildlife or plants might I see?

As part of the Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve, the trail offers a chance to observe local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and diverse plant life native to the Michigan dunes and forests.

Q: What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given its easy nature and short length, you'll primarily need comfortable walking shoes, water, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather. Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic views!

00:24

1.50km

20m

Hiking

Baldy Trail offers an easy hiking experience through the natural beauty of Arcadia Dunes. This gentle path is perfect for a refreshing, leisurely stroll, covering 0.9 miles (1.5 km) with a modest elevation gain of 54 feet (16 metres). You can expect to complete this easy route in about 23 minutes, making it ideal for a quick outdoor escape. As you walk, keep an eye out for the Overlook Trail section, which promises scenic views of the preserve and potentially Lake Michigan in the distance. The atmosphere here is peaceful, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Michigan landscape.

Planning your visit to Baldy Trail is straightforward, as it is generally accessible within Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve. You should find parking available directly at the trailhead, making access convenient. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this easy route, which simplifies your preparations. Always remember to check local conditions before you head out, especially if you are visiting during different seasons, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

This trail is situated within Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve, a significant natural area that contributes to the rich Michigan landscape. The preserve itself is known for its natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape into nature. While the Baldy Trail provides a short, accessible path, it connects you to the broader ecological context of the dunes. This makes it a great starting point to experience the region's unique environment and perhaps explore other sections of the preserve if you have more time.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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1.50 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

956 m

530 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.49 km

Elevation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Baldy Trail located?

This particular Baldy Trail is nestled within the beautiful Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve. It offers a peaceful and accessible outdoor experience.

What is the terrain like on this trail?

The trail is generally easy, with a gentle elevation gain of about 16 meters. You can expect a well-maintained path, suitable for a leisurely hike through the natural preserve.

Is the Baldy Trail suitable for beginners or families?

Absolutely! With its easy difficulty grade and short distance, this trail is perfect for beginners, families with young children, or anyone looking for a relaxed stroll in nature.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Baldy Trail. We kindly ask that you keep your furry friends on a leash at all times and clean up after them to preserve the natural beauty for everyone.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve?

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official preserve website for any updated regulations or special event requirements before your visit.

Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Specific parking information for the Baldy Trailhead within Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve can usually be found on the preserve's official website or local signage. Look for designated parking areas near the main access points to the preserve.

What is the best time of year to hike the Baldy Trail?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also great, though it can be warmer, while winter provides a serene, snowy landscape for those prepared for colder weather.

Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, while primarily following the Baldy Trail, this route also briefly intersects with sections of the 35 (Michigan) trail. This can offer opportunities to explore a bit further if you wish.

What kind of wildlife or plants might I see?

As part of the Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve, the trail offers a chance to observe local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and diverse plant life native to the Michigan dunes and forests.

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given its easy nature and short length, you'll primarily need comfortable walking shoes, water, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather. Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic views!

Are there any viewpoints or notable features along the way?

While not featuring dramatic peaks, the trail offers pleasant views of the surrounding natural preserve. The gentle elevation provides subtle changes in perspective, allowing you to appreciate the diverse landscape of Arcadia Dunes.