Trail Systems
CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE!
Create your own self-supported adventure!
Protect your brain, wear a helmet! Also... your ride should include basic tools, cell phone, plenty of water, snacks and other necessities you may need while out on the trail. While the Mountain Bike Patrol will be around to assist with mechanical failures and medical issues, all riders should be prepared to support themselves while out in the wilderness!
SINGLETRACK - Mountain bike and helmet required
Milford Mountain Bike Trail - Your closest option to all the festival action! The trail is approximately 6 miles in length and intersects with the paved Milford Trail multiple times. Tight and twisty, this intermediate level singletrack loop will test your technical prowess and add some surprises to kick up the fun factor. Take it at slower speeds to make it more beginner friendly. Located just west of downtown, between Commerce and GM Roads.
Proud Lake Recreation Area - Access the ever evolving singletrack network of Proud Lake from the Trailhead at the corner of Childs Lake and Dawson Roads, or ride in on one of the three 2-way connector trails... the Kensington Connector from Milford Rd, The Wixom Road Connector, or the Garden Road Connector. Built over the last several years, Proud Lake has plenty of manageable climbs to get your heart rate up, but you will be rewarded by some of the best downhill in Southeast Michigan. Loop 4 is singletrack sweetness, peppered with everything you could want in a cross country trail. Loop 3 ("Hermann's Dream") is a rollercoaster of flow that you will want to session over and over. Finally, located on the east end of the park and separated from the rest, but connect-able with a two-track road, is the Campground Bypass, a bonus section of beautiful pine covered singletrack that takes you to the Lakes Community Pathway and leads to Hickory Glen.
Kensington Connector - Part of the original Chief Pontiac Trail, a Boy Scout trail built in 1958, it connects Proud Lake (Loop 4 at Old Plank Rd) to Milford Rd on the east side of Kensington Metropark. 2 miles of simple singletrack gets you between two major park systems without having to leave a bike path! Two-way traffic is present on this trail. (Pro-tip: West bound is the fun way!)
Island Lake - A stacked loop, singletrack highway that entertains beginners and advanced riders alike. Lots of flow, mild climbs, and speed if you want it. Nothing too technical but your pace can alter that perception. 18 miles total within three loops: Blue Loop (beginner - 9 miles), Yellow Loop (Intermediate - 6 miles), Purple Loop (sandy & rustic with great views - 3 Miles). While you are welcome to make the drive, it is a 10 mile paved path ride over from Downtown Milford to the trailhead for those trying to put some extra miles in the bank.
Hickory Glen - Tight and twisty, with very little elevation so beginners will find this trail manageable at slower speeds. Great opportunity for advanced riders to test their handling skills at higher speeds! Approximately 6 miles in length, Hickory Glen is accessible from Proud Lake via the paved Lakes Community trail (approximately 3 miles away). It is possible to reach this trail from Proud Lake without riding on any roads thanks to these great pathways!
Highland Recreation Area - These four loops are great for experienced mountain bikers who want to push their limits. The locals describe this network as "old school singletrack." Expect a lot of twists and turns, frequent elevation changes, roots, rocks, and depending on your pain tolerance... lots of gritty smiles! The entire system is 16 miles in length, but thanks to shortcuts and 4 stacked loops, one can choose their own adventure without having to commit to the whole challenge. Its all accessible from downtown Milford by neighborhood and gravel roads, depending on where you cut into the trail.
Not sure where to start? Check out our Guided Rides to explore the trails with local, seasoned ride leaders. If you're more into a self-guided ethos, you can check out some route-starters we put together for you:
- Just getting started or looking to stay close to downtown? This 7-mile loop will take you to Milford Trail and back via the Jankowski Field trailhead.
- If you're ready for a workout and to put your bike skills to the test, then start with your A-B-C-D's with this 19-mile route from downtown Milford to Highland Recreation Area.
- Maybe its time you get to know the Proud Lake Recreation Area trails. Choose from several group rides, that begin from downtown.21 Mile Proud Lake West Exploration route.
- For the true explorer, however, look no further than this 38-mile route to Hickory Glen via the Kensington Connector trails, Proud Lake Recreation Area trails, and the Lakes Community Trail.
And if if just can't choose, and want to see it all, then maybe the 100 (ish)-mile Challenge is for you!
