Trail Overview
The Old M-26 Trail is a short, scenic offroad route near Trimountain, Michigan, perfect for four-wheel-drive vehicles and SxSs looking for a quick, historical connector. Spanning roughly 0.7 miles, this route climbs from an elevation of 1,178 feet to 1,325 feet with a cumulative elevation gain of 144 feet. The trail follows an abandoned stretch of highway that was bypassed in 2006 due to hazardous winter driving conditions. Today, the paved surface has given way to dirt and mud, making for an engaging drive with a technical rating of 4. A short, steep hill climb of approximately 100 feet requires high clearance and low range, particularly when wet weather turns the slope slick and muddy.
Navigating the trail reveals several large humps and obstacles that demand careful tire placement and adequate ground clearance. In the winter months, this steep hill serves as a popular local sledding spot, reflecting its deep integration into the community. After conquering the climb, travelers can cross the new M-26 highway to directly access a larger network of local ATV and SxS routes leading into Trimountain. This short but rugged route offers a unique opportunity to drive a piece of retired highway history while transitioning into the wider trail systems of the Keweenaw Peninsula.
History
This route was originally a paved highway until 2006, when it was decommissioned and bypassed. The winding road was notorious for causing winter vehicle accidents, leading to the construction of the new M-26 highway and the abandonment of this section to the elements and local offroaders.
