Midland to Mackinaw Trail

The Midland to Mackinac Trail, a historic 210-mile Native American footpath, has been restored by members of the Boy Scouts' Auburn-based Lake Huron Area Council No. 265 and other volunteers. A trail reopening and dedication were held in the Spring of 2001 in Midland County.  The hiking and cross-country skiing trail stretches from Midland County to Mackinaw City at the tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

For hundreds of years, this trail was used by Native Americans as a seasonal path for hunting, trapping and gathering foodstuffs.

The trail is relatively isolated, passing through parts of only two communities -- Cheboygan and Mackinac City. With few organized campsites along the way, hikers and riders are urged to carry water.

Camping is allowed on National Forest land, however, no developed campground occur near this segment of pathway. Camping along the trail on public lands is free, but Michigan DNRE permits are needed on state land.

The pathway weaves through a variety of forest types and landforms. The trail is marked with blue paint and does not provide a return loop. Users must retrace their steps or shuttle.

Midland to Mackinaw Trail Map

At a Glance