This scenic 26 mi (42 km) converted rail-trail offers a quiet journey through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, following the historic Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic Railway corridor. The southern 5 mi (8 km) share the route with the North Country National Scenic Trail, before continuing north through a mix of pine and hardwood forests, wetlands, kettle lakes, and riparian corridors, ending at Trout Lake.

The crushed gravel path is flat and well-marked, ideal for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and snowmobilers, depending on the season. While not technically challenging, its length makes it a moderately demanding full-day outing, often taking 6–7 hours end-to-end.

Trail Highlights & Features

• Historic route: Follows the former DSS&A Rail Line.

• Chain Lake crossing: ~1 mi north of St. Ignace, known for fishing and riparian scenery.

• Moran: A small community midpoint offering gas, snacks, and rest stops.

• Diverse habitats: Hardwood forests, wetlands, marshes, and marsh-edge vistas.

• Wildlife: Frequent sightings of deer, bald eagles, foxes, trumpeter swans, and migratory birds.

• Shared corridor: Southernmost 5 mi (8 km) are part of the North Country National Scenic Trail.

Trailhead & Access

• Southern Terminus: Little Bear East Arena, St. Ignace (just west of I‑75).

• Northern Terminus: Trout Lake, near State Route 123 (~0.5 mi from railroad crossing).

• Midpoint Access: Forest roads around Moran and Brevort Lake Road.

• Parking: Available at both main termini and limited roadside spots mid-trail.

• Management: Maintained by the Hiawatha National Forest; users are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace.

Conditions & Tips

• Surface: Crushed gravel with occasional rough sections.

• Difficulty: Easy terrain; distance is the primary challenge.

• Season: March–October for hikers and cyclists; open in winter for snowmobiling.

• Supplies: Carry water and snacks—services are limited outside St. Ignace and Moran.

• Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty—offline maps recommended.

• Wildlife & Nature: Bring binoculars for birdwatching.