Kal-Haven Trail State Park

The trail primarily features a surface of crushed slag and limestone, or hard-packed clay. It's known for being consistently maintained and relatively smooth. While largely flat with minimal elevation changes, you'll encounter a few gentle rollers. Mountain bikes or hybrid bikes with wider tires are well-suited for the surface. In wet conditions, especially during spring thaw, wider tires are recommended as the crushed limestone can soften.

Yes, the Kal-Haven Trail is widely regarded as an easy and family-friendly trail. Its design as a rail-trail means it follows a predictable, almost flat grade without significant elevation spikes or technical terrain, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for a steady, restorative ride.

The Kal-Haven Trail spans 33.5 to 34 miles, connecting the cities of Kalamazoo and South Haven. You can start from either end; the western terminus is in South Haven, and the eastern end is in Kalamazoo. The Kalamazoo trailhead even features an old red caboose.

Riders can expect beautiful and varied scenery, including rural areas, open farmland, orchards, delicate wetlands, and mixed hardwood forests. Approximately 70% of the trail is shaded by a mature tree canopy. Notable features include a covered bridge, the unique 'Camelback Bridge', and more than a half-dozen old railroad towns. The trail itself is a significant highlight: Kal-Haven Trail.

The trail offers a great experience throughout the warmer months. The mature tree canopy provides excellent shade on hot days, and autumn brings vibrant colors, making fall a particularly scenic time to visit. Spring can be beautiful, but be aware that the crushed limestone surface can soften in wet conditions.

Yes, as a State Park, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry. This can be purchased when renewing your license plate or at the park entrance. For e-bikes, Class I e-bikes are permitted, while Class II e-bikes require a separate permit.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Kal-Haven Trail. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Parking is available at both the Kalamazoo and South Haven trailheads, as well as at various access points in the towns along the route. Some old depots in towns like Bloomingdale and South Haven now serve as visitor centers and often have parking facilities.

Yes, the Kal-Haven Trail is part of The Great Lake-to-Lake Trails. The eastern end of the Kal-Haven Trail also offers the possibility to connect with the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, extending your cycling adventure.

You'll find amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables conveniently spaced every 4-6 miles. Additionally, there are 31 interpretive panels detailing local history, and you can even find a fresh produce farm, Bumbleberry Farms, along the way.

Yes, the trail is multi-use and accommodates winter activities. When there are at least 4 inches of snow, it's open for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing.