Trail Overview
NFS 9712 is a beautiful out-and-back off-road trail located within the Manistee National Forest. The trail starting from the north at West 11 Mile Road begins with a sandy washboard. As you weave down the trail, you'll surely encounter a couple of mud holes. 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! If conditions are favorable, there is a bypass around the first deep rutted-out mud hole, but there is no bypass for the second mud hole. Most of this trail is only wide enough for one vehicle, with limited places to pass. Be sure to soak up the gorgeous landscape around these areas. This is an awesome trail for all to enjoy with other great trails nearby!
Difficulty
This was given a Technical Rating & Difficulty of 3 due to the trail typically only being wide enough for 1 vehicle, with places to pass, and two deeply rutted out mud holes. Otherwise, this trail could be rated as a 2.