Corkpine, Bullwacker, Firetower, and Catamount Loop

The Corkpine, Bullwacker, Firetower, and Catamount Loop is part of the larger Big M Trail System. You can typically find parking at the main Big M Trailhead, which serves as a central access point for this network of trails within the Manistee National Forest.

As this loop is located within the Manistee National Forest, a recreation pass may be required for parking or day use in certain areas. It's always best to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Manistee National Forest (fs.usda.gov) for the most current information on passes and fees before your visit.

The prime mountain biking season for this loop, and the Big M Trail System in general, runs from April to September. During this period, the trails are typically ridden one-way in a clockwise direction. Visiting during spring or fall can offer beautiful scenery with fewer crowds, but always check trail conditions, especially after rain or during early spring thaw.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails within the Manistee National Forest. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out any waste.

This loop offers a diverse and challenging experience, rated as moderate overall. It combines segments of varying difficulty. Corkpine is relatively flat and suitable for beginners, while Bullwacker and Catamount are black diamond singletrack with significant climbs and descents. The Firetower section includes a notable, steep climb that some riders may find challenging to ride entirely.

The terrain is varied, featuring rolling hills, significant climbs, and fast descents. You'll encounter a mix of singletrack and doubletrack. Expect sections with sandy patches, especially at the bottom of hills, and some areas may be overgrown during summer, adding to the rustic backcountry feel. The trails wind through canopied hardwoods, lowland pine plantations, and potentially swampy cedar land.

Riding through the pure wilderness of the Manistee National Forest, you have a good chance of spotting wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and porcupines. Black bears also inhabit the forest, so be aware. The trails are surrounded by diverse flora, including canopied hardwoods and lowland pine plantations.

A notable landmark on the loop is the historic Fire Tower, which offers a point of interest and likely scenic views from its vicinity. The entire route immerses you in the beautiful wilderness of the Manistee National Forest, providing picturesque scenery throughout.

Yes, this route is intricately woven into the larger Big M Trail System. The loop itself covers 100% of the Big M Mountain Biking Trails and also passes through significant sections of the Catamount and Bullwacker trails, which are part of the same network.

While parts of the loop, such as the Corkpine segment, are family-friendly and suitable for beginners, the overall loop incorporates more challenging black diamond sections like Bullwacker and Catamount, as well as steep climbs on Firetower. Beginners might find the full loop quite demanding. It's recommended that less experienced riders stick to the easier segments or consider shorter, less technical routes within the Big M Trail System.

The estimated duration for mountain biking this 20.9 km (13 miles) loop is approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes. However, actual times can vary significantly based on your fitness level, riding speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or navigate challenging sections.