Introduction
      Bald Mountain Recreation Area has 2 completely separate parks with 2 completely separate mountain bike trails. Both "Units" (North and South) are located near Lake Orion, just west of Rochester, MI. The South unit which is the lesser used of the 2 is just north of the Palace, located off Lapear and Greenshield roads (see Bald Mt. South Page). The North unit offers 2 smaller loops which total 8 miles of fun wide trail riding. The trail is great for beginners through expert riders, with a few challenging hills (both up and down), semi-technical riding, and the occasional roots. The North unit is mainly a wide version of a single track trail which allows you to carry a good amount of speed through it. Please be courteous of other trail users. There are a good number of hikers, runners, hunters, and families out to enjoy the trail as well. This trail is also directional! Follow the numbered signs and obey any trail closures. In the event you need to back track, please be cautions or walk you bike. There is also plenty of scenery while weaving through the rolling terrain.
       Completing both loops of the North trail can take 1-2 hours, bring plenty of water, food and supplies. The state does require a parking permit, if you do not have a seasonal pass, you must purchase a daily permit by filling out the envelope, adding money, and deposit it into the self registration canister. Please keep in mind the Guidelines for safety and etiquette.

Note: Michigan DNR asks that you don't use trails during wet weather or during spring thaw, this will damage the trails and possibly hurt MMBA/DNR relations.

Organizations
Metro North Chapter of the MMBA
President: Nick Shue
Vice President: Mike Moss

More information about the MMBA
mmba.org

Amenities
There is absolutely NO WATER available, on the trail or in the parking area. An outhouses can be found shortly after you cross the last bridge and pass behind the ranger's house by the lake, and shortly after beginning the trail (from Harmon Parking lot). And head down a straight hill, up and left are the cabins and an outhouse (just before you cross a small make shift log bridge).

Directions & Maps

Misc: A nice fall color hike through t the scenic 4,637 acres. The colors are best during the first 2 weeks of October. A stop at one of the cider mills in Goodison always finish off a fall day nicely.

Contact:
Bald Mountain State Park
1330 Greenshield Rt. 1
Lake Orion, MI 48360
Phone # (810) 693-6767
TDD #(517) 335-4623

Local Bike Shops:
Located in Lake Orion, Oxford, or Rochester

Hunting
Approximately 3,500 acres in Bald Mountain Recreation Area are open to hunting. Hunter safety courses are taught at the shooting range each fall.

Plea for Responsibility: With the growing number of new Mountain bikers, trail erosion has become very evident at several popular trails (Pontiac Lake, and Poto). The weekend traffic has grown heavier and less concerned, This has taken its toll. Trails that were handling challenges, have become speedways for the out of control masses. Even Highland, which is only a few years old is showing signs of misuse, I could barely ride A and B loops in 1996, now they are easily traversed. The many chapters of MMBA do a fantastic job on maintenance and access, but as riders we should share the burden and ride sensibly. Stay in control, ride on the beaten path (avoid short cuts), and try not to destroy any vegetation.

Also, If you see someone tearing it up with total disregard for the trail and those who maintain it, SAY SOMETHING. When taking beginners on any trail, always try to teach some etiquette. You can use following the MMBA, and IMBA's Guidelines for trail etiquette.