Fife Lake Loop

The loop design of the Fife Lake Loop makes parking convenient, as you'll return to your starting point. You can find parking at various access points around the trail, including near the Old US-131 and Spring Lake State Forest Campgrounds. These are popular spots to begin your hike.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Fife Lake Loop. As it's located within the Pere Marquette State Forest, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all users.

The Fife Lake Loop offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. In winter, the trail is suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though it is not groomed.

Hiking the Fife Lake Loop itself does not require a specific permit or fee. However, if you plan to camp overnight at one of the state forest campgrounds, such as Old US-131 or Spring Lake, fees will apply for those amenities. Dispersed camping is permitted in designated areas within the Pere Marquette State Forest.

The Fife Lake Loop is approximately 31.7 km (21 miles) long. For an average hiker, completing the entire loop can take around 8-9 hours of active hiking time. Many choose to break it into a multi-day backpacking trip, allowing for a more leisurely pace and overnight stays.

The terrain is quite varied, featuring mixed hardwoods and conifers, wetlands, and rolling hills. You'll traverse sections along the Manistee River and Fife Lake Creek, including old railroad routes with straight stretches and boardwalks. While much of the eastern side is described as mostly flat and well-maintained with a soft, padded surface of pine needles, the western side can have sandy washouts, hills, and potential mud or water holes, especially after rain.

The trail offers diverse scenery, including crystal clear lakes, towering pines, and varied ecosystems. You'll skirt the scenic Manistee River for several miles, with overlooks from elevated bluffs. One notable highlight is the View of the Manistee River. You might also spot wildlife like white-tailed deer and red foxes, and various bird species.

Yes, the Fife Lake Loop integrates significantly with the North Country Trail. It was formed by combining sections of the original North Country Trail (NCT) with a newly discovered, more scenic route. You will follow both the traditional blue blazes of the NCT and orange blazes for the Fife Lake Trail segment. Specifically, the route also passes through sections of the North Country National Scenic Trail (MI) and the Fife Lake Trail.

Many hikers find the eastern side of the loop to be more scenic, featuring more water features and single-track footpath compared to the western side. If you're looking for the most picturesque views, consider focusing on or starting your hike on the eastern portion of the loop. Be aware that water sources can be scarcer on the western side.

Given its length and varied terrain, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike the western side where sources are less frequent. Sturdy hiking boots, appropriate layers for changing weather, navigation tools (like a map or GPS), and insect repellent are also advisable. If backpacking, ensure you have all necessary camping gear.