Trail Overview
FS 8580 is a laid-back and scenic bidirectional trail within the Manistee National Forest. Located right off River Road from the west side, this trail is easily accessible. If you choose to come from the east side, you will first need to go down FS 8783. This trail surface consists of a dirt, gravel, sand, grass, and leafy combination. This route twists through a beautiful portion of the forest, high above the nearby Manistee River. The trail is easy going with no obstacles to note. There are a couple of places along the route where the track narrows with some tighter trees, but that's about it. Like most Michigan off-road trails, conditions are dependent on the weather. Recent rainfall can cause unfavorable conditions on the trail, including downed trees, mud holes, and washouts. This is not a difficult trail at all, but it contains a lot of beauty and gives access to local hiking, hunting, and recreation. The trail finishes at a large opening in the forest with plenty of space to turn around and/or park to see the Manistee River Viewpoint. Be sure to check out the nearby North Country hiking trail that runs along the ridge right off the turnaround.
