A Journey Through History and Nature
The North Central State Trail in Michigan is more than just a pathway through the state’s scenic landscapes; it’s a journey through history, following the tracks of the once-bustling Michigan Central Railroad. This 74.9-mile trail stretches from Waters to Mackinaw City, winding through some of Michigan’s most beautiful scenery and welcoming communities. Today, this historic rail line has transformed into a beloved recreational trail, offering activities for all seasons.
A Glimpse into Railroad History
Tobinabee Library that was once a train depot sit next to the tracks, now trail.
Established in 1882 by the Michigan Central Railroad, the rail line that is now the North Central State Trail was initially built to serve Michigan’s booming timber industry. The railway carried lumber and passengers alike, reaching the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. By the time Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel opened in 1887, this route had become a gateway for tourists from across the country, especially those seeking clean air and stunning natural beauty in Michigan’s Northland.
Throughout the 20th century, the railroad evolved. The railroad remained popular even into the 1950s with the “Timberline” train, which took weekend passengers from Detroit to their northern cottages, offering a leisurely, scenic ride. With the opening of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957, travelers increasingly turned to automobiles, and the demand for passenger train services gradually waned. By the early 1980s, the railway ceased operations and lay dormant until it found new life as a recreational trail in the late 1990s.
The Trail’s Revival and Development
The North Central State Trail officially began its transformation in the late 1990s. Between 1998 and 2000, the Michigan Department of Transportation, the Department of Natural Resources, and over 40 local organizations secured the trail corridor through a series of transactions. With nearly $2 million in federal grants, they developed the trail, completing the resurfacing in crushed limestone by 2007. In 2012, the trail was designated a National Recreation Trail, further solidifying its place as a recreational asset for Michigan.
In 2018, the trail was extended southward by 12 miles, from Gaylord to the Crawford-Otsego County line near the community of Waters. This extension, funded by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, expanded accessibility and connected more communities along the route.
Exploring the Trail: What to Expect
North Central Trail between Indian River and Wolverine Michigan
Surface & Accessibility
The trail is made of packed crushed limestone, which is ideal for most non-motorized activities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Snowmobilers can also enjoy the trail from December 1 to March 31.
Year-Round Activities
Cyclists, walkers, and horseback riders frequent the trail during the warmer months, while snowmobilers take over in winter. The North Central State Trail also forms a part of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail, offering an even broader adventure for avid cyclists.
Breathtaking Scenery
This trail showcases Michigan’s diverse landscapes, passing through rural agricultural fields, the lush Mackinaw State Forest, and alongside the serene Sturgeon River and Mullett Lake. Travelers can visit scenic state parks, including Otsego Lake State Park and Historic Mill Creek State Park near Mackinaw City.
Connecting Communities
The trail serves several welcoming communities such as Gaylord, Vanderbilt, Indian River, and Cheboygan, where it intersects with other major trails like the North Western State Trail and the North Eastern State Trail.
North Central Trail – Bridge over the Sturgeon River
Why Visit the North Central State Trail?
The North Central State Trail is a treasure trove for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers. Following the path of the historic Michigan Central Railroad, the trail lets you journey through Michigan’s heritage and experience its stunning natural beauty up close. Whether you’re biking in the summer, hiking in the fall, or snowmobiling in the winter, the trail offers something for every season and every type of explorer.
More Than a Trail
The North Central State Trail is more than just a scenic trail; it’s a symbol of Michigan’s commitment to preserving history while promoting outdoor recreation. From its roots in the timber industry to its modern role as a recreational escape, the trail reflects the region’s evolution and provides a unique way to connect with Michigan’s landscapes and heritage.
For more information about the North Central Trail visit Adventures in Northern Michigan.
Learn more about the rich history of the Northeast Lower Peninsula.
