Monks Trail

Total Miles
1.5

Technical Rating

1

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Trail Type

Full-Width Road

Accessible By

Trail Overview

Monks Trail is a 1.5-mile bidirectional trail within the Pinckney State Rec Area. Located between Cedar Lake Trail and Kelly Trail just south of Putnam Township, this trail is easily accessible. Starting from the western end of Kelly Road, you'll start out on a dirt/gravel route that is surrounded by trees, tall grass, and some off-trail water. You'll find your way through the trees and come across the Monks Road Equestrian Trailhead. Further down the trail, you'll travel through a thicker section of towering trees and lush vegetation edging the trail. This trail also had the Pinckney Rec Area Equestrian trail as well as the Bridle hiking trail. Be sure to check both of those out. Please TREAD LIGHTLY so future generations can enjoy these public spaces. Like most of Michigan trails, conditions are dependent on the weather. Recent rainfall can cause unfavorable conditions on the trail, including downed trees, mud holes, and washouts. Come Prepared! Most of this trail is wide enough for 2 vehicles, but there are limited places to pass. This is not a difficult trail at all, but it does contain a lot of interesting features. This trail also gives access to other great trails nearby. The eastern end of the trail finishes at Cedar Lake Trail, so if you haven't yet, make sure you check that one out! Regardless of the conditions of this trail, it's a fun route to check out! As always, PLEASE TREAD LIGHTLY and be respectful of our public lands so future generations can have access to these trails!

Photos of Monks Trail

Monks Trail
Monks Trail

Difficulty

The technical rating and difficulty were given a one because it's a dirt road with gentle grades. This trail is safe for all vehicle types and is two vehicles wide.

Technical Rating

1

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

Monks Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High-Clearance 4x4
  • SUV

Access Description

Located between Jackson and Ann Arbor, just north of Highway 94, you'll find this trail. The west end is located at the intersection of Kelly Road and Monks Road, while the east end is located at the intersection of Monks Road and Cedar Lake Road.

Monks Trail Map

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