Smith Lake Trail

Trail Overview

Smith Lake Trail is an exciting and fun bidirectional trail within the Traverse City Forest Management Unit. Located just west of Kalkaska near highway US-131 & M-72, this trail is easily accessible. Starting from the western end of LP 55 Trail, you'll start on a thick section of the forest with lush vegetation edging the trail. 0.5 miles in, this route crosses over the North Country National Scenic Trail (Hiking Trail)-NCT. If you're unfamiliar, it's the longest national scenic trail in America at 4,800 miles across eight states. As you continue down the trail, you'll twist and turn as you change in elevation. Be sure to take it all in and TREAD LIGHTLY so future generations can enjoy these public spaces. It's extremely sad to see others using these incredible places as their trash disposal spots. So please TREAD LIGHTLY. The route passes by Smith Lake at mile marker 1.1. There's a trail down to the water to check it out. Smith Lake Trail will surely keep you entertained and engaged. There are several places along the trail available for dispersed camping. If you plan on utilizing these spots, again, PLEASE TREAD LIGHTLY, and seek more information at the local DNR Office/Ranger Station before camping here. Use caution when navigating this track, as several hiking & mountain biking trails in the area are part of the Smith Lake Loop & NCT. Hikers & mountain bikers have been seen directly on this route, so please use caution. Like most of Michigan's 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. Come Prepared! Most of this trail is only wide enough for 1 vehicle, with limited places to pass. This is not a difficult trail at all, but it contains a lot of fun and beauty. This trail also gives access to other great trails nearby. The eastern end of the trail finishes at Kalkaska N Mtn Bike Trail. Regardless of the conditions of this trail, it's a really fun route to check out! As always, again, PLEASE TREAD LIGHTLY and be respectful of our public lands so future generations can have access to these trails!

Photos of Smith Lake Trail

Want to see more?

Login

Difficulty

This was only given a Technical Rating & Difficulty of 2 due to the trail typically only being wide enough for one to two vehicles. Otherwise, this trail could be rated as a 1.

Technical Rating

Smith Lake Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike