South 72 Trail

Trail Overview

South 72 Trail is a fun bidirectional trail within the Traverse City Forest Management Unit. Located just northwest of Kalkaska off Highway M-72, this trail is easily accessible. Starting from the eastern end at Old 72 Trail, you'll start on a sandy two-track section of the forest with lush vegetation edging the trail. Shortly into the route, you'll encounter the reason this trail was rated as a 4. There's a sandy washout section that's become progressively more rutted out over time. There is a bypass around this obstacle, but it's a fun spot to tackle. The remainder of the trail is a standard Michigan two-track that would be rated as a 2 only because it's typically wide enough for 1 vehicle with limited places to pass. Otherwise, the trail would be rated as a 1. 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. 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! This is a fun and unique trail to Michigan that contains a lot of beauty and entertainment. This trail also gives access to other great trails nearby. The western end of the trail finishes at Rapid City Rd NW. Regardless of the conditions or rating of this trail, it's a very 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 South 72 Trail

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Difficulty

The Technical Rating & Difficulty of this trail was given a 4 due to one spot on the route towards the eastern end. It's a very washed-out sandy section that's gotten very deep and progressively worse. The remainder of the trail could be rated as a 2 only due to it being typically one vehicle wide with places to pass. Otherwise, the rest of the trail could be rated as a 1.

Technical Rating

South 72 Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

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