Trail Overview
License Plate Required! Ridge Runner Trail is an awesome Michigan two-track trail, located on the south side of the Manistee River in the Cadillac Forest Management Unit. This trail is very much like its nearby sibling trails, 35-1/2 Trail & Buttermilk Creek Trail. To get to the start of the trail, you'll come down No. 6 Road and be presented with awe-inspiring views of the countryside. This is a unique spot for the area. Logging operations have and do take place here. It has given this area an otherworldly appearance. Once you descend to the start of 35-1/2 Trail, you'll travel 0.6 miles before turning right onto the start of Ridge Runner Trail. The start of the route surface consists of a combination of sand and dirt along a stunning section of towering pine trees. Shortly after the pine row portion of the trail, the track transitions into a dirt and grass classic two-track as it weaves through a thick portion of the forest. There's a lot of lush plant life along this trail to be seen. Like most of Michigan trails, conditions are dependent on the weather. Recent rainfall can cause mud/water holes that can get rutted out quickly. Come prepared! Most of this trail is only wide enough for 1 vehicle, with limited places to pass. The end of the trail finishes with a small space to turn around, and is also home to a small dispersed campsite for 2 vehicles max. This spot is pretty cool as it's near a steep ravine that goes down to the Manistee River. If you plan on utilizing this spot, PLEASE TREAD LIGHTLY, and seek more information at the local DNR Office/Ranger Station before camping here. Regardless of the conditions or length of the route, this is a fantastic trail for everyone to enjoy!
