Rolling Hills Perimeter Loop

The trail is located within Rolling Hills County Park in Ypsilanti, Michigan. You can find parking within the park itself, which provides direct access to the various trailheads, including the start of this loop.

Yes, as part of the Washtenaw County Parks system, Rolling Hills County Park typically requires an entrance fee. It's best to check the official Washtenaw County Parks website for current fee schedules and any permit requirements before your visit.

While the park is generally welcoming, specific rules for dogs on trails can vary. It's common for county parks to require dogs to be on a leash at all times. Please check the official park regulations for the most up-to-date information regarding pets on the trails.

The loop offers a great experience year-round. Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers like trilliums and violets. Autumn is particularly stunning with breathtaking views of changing foliage. Even in winter, the trail can be enjoyed, though conditions may vary.

The terrain lives up to its name with "rolling hills" formed from glacial deposits, creating a continually undulating path. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including a 3-mile soft surface hiking trail and singletrack sections. These singletracks, originally for mountain biking, feature quick ups and downs and sharp turns, but often have easier "ride arounds" for less experienced hikers.

You'll experience diverse and picturesque scenery, including open meadows, dense woodlands (with oak, maple, and hickory trees), and serene wetlands. There's a large pond with fish and turtles, and observation decks offer great views. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as white-tailed deer, red foxes, woodpeckers, and warblers, especially during migration seasons.

Yes, the trail offers several notable features. Along the singletrack sections, you might encounter landmarks like an "S-bend", a "Crater", and a "Bluff". There's also a large log pile around the 2.5-mile mark. Observation decks and an open boardwalk over the pond provide scenic viewing points.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails within Rolling Hills County Park. You'll find yourself on parts of the Rolling Hills MTB Trail, the North Meadow Trail Loop, the Woodland Trail, the Sassafras Trail, and the North Meadow Trail Connector.

Absolutely! The park aims to cater to a range of skill levels. While some singletrack sections can be technical, there are also easier soft surface paths and "ride arounds" for obstacles. The varied terrain and diverse scenery make it an engaging option for both novice hikers and families looking for an outdoor adventure.

Yes, the loop can be hiked in winter. The park's diverse trails remain accessible, offering a different kind of beauty with snow-covered landscapes. Be sure to dress appropriately for cold weather and check park conditions for any specific winter advisories.

Yes, as the name suggests, it is a loop trail. This means you'll end up back at your starting point without having to retrace your steps, offering a continuous and varied hiking experience.