Island Lake MTB

Welcome to Trail's Edge
Island Lake State R.A.
mountain biking guide
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WARNING: Mountain Biking is Potentially Dangerous!

Introduction
Island Lake State Recreation Area, is located just West of Kensington Metropark. Near the US-23 / I-96 interchange. There are 2 trails beginner friendly trails available. A 9+ mile loop and a 5+ mile loop. these can be combined easily for a longer ride. The Blue loop (9 Mile) is the more technical of the 2, while the Yellow (5 mile) is more rolling and fast. Both trails are relatively flat and are very well marked (a large map is posted at the trail hear parking lot). All trails are directional! Please follow the signs accordingly. The actual trails are mostly flat with gentle rolling grass lands and some medium length gradual climbs. Weekends are very crowded the trails are almost completely empty during the weekdays (except for evenings). More experienced riders will find these trails a great place for speed, or to bring there less technical riding friends.

NOTE: Please be advised that the direction of travel at Island Lake Recreation Area should be ridden in the clockwise direction.

Click HERE For current weather conditions and the five day weather forecast.

Season
All year long, park hours only. The summer is great, the humidity can be unbearable but if you are going to sweat anyhow have fun doing it. Temps are usually in the high 70's & 80's. Wear bright breathable clothing, bring some form of bug repellent and as Dr. Lisa always says "Wear Sunscreen".

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

Organizations:
Metro South Chapter of the MMBA
President: Joe Foy
Vice President: Frank Bean
More information about the MMBA mmba.org

Directions & Maps

Amenities
Island Lake is a well maintained state recreation area with a pump for water and outhuses at the trail head parking lot. The park also boasts some great paved paths (bike, blade, walk), fishing, picinicing, and organizational camping. If you need supplies South Lyon is very close with a variety of shops and restaurants.

Typical Summer weekend parking lot

Support The MMBA

Plea for Responsibility: With the growing number of new Mountain bikers, trail erosion has become very evident at several popular trails. 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 somthing. 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.