The best cycling routes in Highland State Recreation Area

Highland State Recreation Area offers a good selection of touring cycling routes, with over 15 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging rides.

The park features diverse terrain, including rolling hills, forests, and wetland areas. While some trails are geared towards mountain biking, touring cyclists can enjoy multi-use pathways like the Cedar Creek Trail, which has a crushed limestone surface and moderate inclines. Routes such as Kent Lake – West Buno Road bridge loop from Milford also offer varied terrain around the lake.

Yes, Highland State Recreation Area has several easy options suitable for families. The North Loop is an easygoing 2.1-mile multi-use trail winding through woods and open fields. Additionally, the Hubbell Pond loop from Milford Charter Township is a shorter, easy route that takes you through forested areas and near Hubbell Pond.

Cyclists can enjoy diverse landscapes including over ten inland lakes, such as Teeple Lake and Hubbell Pond, and various forest types like swamp, beech-maple, and oak-hickory. The Haven Hill Natural Area, a 721-acre National Natural Landmark, preserves a largely undisturbed character and offers glimpses of the former Edsel Ford estate, including a restored gatehouse. Routes like Hubbell Pond loop from Milford provide views of these scenic areas.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Highland State Recreation Area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Kent Lake – West Buno Road bridge loop from Milford and the Wooden boardwalk – Trail Bridge loop from Milford Charter Township, offering convenient circular journeys.

The park is beautiful year-round, but late April and early May are particularly good for viewing warblers and spring wildflowers in the Haven Hill Natural Area. The diverse forests offer stunning foliage in autumn. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as Michigan seasons can vary.

Yes, Highland State Recreation Area provides various parking areas throughout the park. Specific trailheads, such as those near the Haven Hill Gatehouse for the Cedar Creek Trail, offer convenient access points for cyclists. It's advisable to check the park's official website or signage for designated parking locations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the lakes and forests, and the well-maintained multi-use paths that make for an enjoyable touring experience. The tranquility and natural setting are frequently highlighted.

Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, including Highland State Recreation Area, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Always ensure to clean up after your pet to maintain the natural environment for everyone.

While the recreation area itself is primarily natural, the nearby towns of Milford and Highland offer various dining options, including cafes and restaurants, where you can refuel before or after your ride. These towns are typically a short drive from the park's main entrances.

The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Hubbell Pond loop from Milford Charter Township is a shorter 4.0-mile route that can be completed in about 27 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Buno Road bridge loop from Concrete Podium, which is nearly 30 miles, might take around 1 hour 54 minutes.