EXPLORE THE EUP

North Country National Scenic Trail

Trailhead located west of Castle Rock and Castle Rock ponds takes hikers along the North Country Trail. Off I-75 (Castle Rock exit) take Lant Road to Castle Rock Road.

Cut River Roadside Park

A beautiful roadside park area where you can view the Cut River Bridge and Lake Michigan. Short trails take you down to a sandy beach area along Lake Michigan or along the river. From the intersection of US-2 and I-75, drive west 24 miles on US-2. 

Maple Hill Trail

Enjoy all or a part of this winding trail between the towns of Moran and Rudyard. Hikers can walk along the Niagara Escarpment, a rare rock formation, or enjoy wildlife at the beaver dam. From St. Ignace to I-75, take exit 352 for M-123. Turn right onto 

Charles Moran Rd. Turn left onto East Lake Rd. 
Signs for the North Country Trail are along here.

Huron Boardwalk

A picturesque walk along the historic St. Ignace downtown waterfront, connecting unique shops, restaurants, waterfront parks, and museums. Interpretive signs portray the history, lifestyles, and industries of the Straits of Mackinac. Downtown St. Ignace.

St. Ignace Rail Trail to Trout Lake

This 26 mile trail is almost entirely within the Hiawatha National Forest. It follows an abandoned rail corridor from St. Ignace north to Trout Lake. The trail passes among woodlands, wetlands, and open green spaces. Open to cyclists, hikers, ORVs, and snowmobiles. Park at Little Bear East Arena on Marquette Street.

Sand Dunes XC Ski Trail

A popular destination for cross-country skiers. Trails accommodate beginners to advanced skiers. Groomed for classic style cross country skiing. From the intersection of US-2 and I-75 drive west 12 miles on US-2 to Brevort Lake Road. Turn right (north) and drive 0.4 mile north to the trailhead on the left (west) side of the road.

Straits State Park 

Within this state park are picnic areas, and observation platforms that offer superb views of the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac. Trails and history of the area make it a popular destination in St. Ignace. Located on Church Street, in the City of St. Ignace, south of US-2.

Native Plant Garden & Trails

The Hiawatha National Forest St. Ignace Ranger Station is home to a beautiful array of native wildflowers and has three scenic trail loops to hike. From the intersection of US-2 and I-75 in St. Ignace drive west about 5 miles. Parking lot/driveway is on the right/north-side of the road.

Foley Creek & Horseshoe Bay Wilderness Area

An often overlooked area of Lake Huron shoreline, this trail system is accessed from Foley Creek National Forest Campground. A 2.5 mile trail leads out to the 7-miles of protected shoreline. Located just north of St. Ignace, the Foley Creek National Foreset Campground entrance is off County Road 320. 

St. Ignace XC Ski Trail

Seven-mile ski trail which traverses woods and some pipeline clearing along a scenic route that skirts four lakes. Begins across from the high school on Portage Road; ends at Doc Holle’s Winter Recreation Area on US-2 and Cheeseman Road.