Trail Overview
3rd Creek Trail is unlike most trails in Michigan. This is a 3.7-mile (WOAH) bidirectional trail within the Traverse City Forest Management Unit. Located between Plagany Road and Thompsonville Road, this trail is easily accessible whether you are at the beginning or nearing the end of your journey. Most of the trail is a combination of dirt and sand, which transitions to a gravel road. Starting out, you'll begin in a dense portion of the forest with some overgrowth along the trail. As you continue, the trail twists and turns with sandy berms and a few washed-out, rutted sections that are fun to drive. Make sure to take in the scenery along this trail as there is so much to see! You will also come across a bridge that crosses over a creek. This seemed pretty sketchy to us at first, but driving over was no big deal. I probably wouldn't hang out on top of it, but it seems sturdy enough to quickly drive over. This was definitely the highlight of this trail, as you don't typically see anything like that on a Michigan trail. Like most Michigan trails, conditions are dependent on the weather. Recent rainfall can cause downed trees, washouts, & mud holes. There was a pretty decent-sized water/mud hole on this trail, so just be cautious of that, especially after a substantial rainfall. Most of this trail is only wide enough for 1 vehicle, with limited places to pass. The end of this trail finishes with an easy gravel road, but that is welcome after the longer trek. As always, PLEASE TREAD LIGHTLY and be respectful of our public lands so future generations can have access to these trails! This is not a difficult trail, but it is plentiful with beauty and fun around every turn. Regardless of the length or conditions, this is an amazing trail everyone should experience.
