Near Mason Tract Pathway
Fall colors on the Mason Tract Pathway

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Mason Tract Pathway

No rating
A point-to-point trail of intermediate difficulty, through mixed forest and following the South Branch Au Sable River.
8.9
mi
Distance
211
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFishingHistoricalRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
8.87mi
Distance
211ft
Elevation Gain
211ft
Elevation Loss
10%
Max Grade
1,148ft
High Point
1,082ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This is a well-marked point-to-point trail on the Mason Tract property (managed by the Michigan DNR). The terminal trailheads are at the Chase Bridge Road crossing over the South Branch Au Sable River at the south end, and along M-72 on the north side. There are sand and gravel roads paralleling the Mason Tract Pathway that offer access points along the route. This trail closely follows the South Branch Au Sable River and is popular with anglers, so don't be surprised if you encounter men and women with chest waders and fly rods. In fact, the property is named after George Mason, one of the founding members of Trout Unlimited. The trail is open for cross-country skiing during the winter.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
Some Issues
Downed Tree
Overall not bad. Some spots you had to walk around the water. Last two miles towards chase bridge road were flooded.
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Contributors
Josh Leisen