You’ve Never Experienced Anything Like This Epic Abandoned Railroad Hike In Michigan
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Sophie Boudreau
Author
Since 2003, Michiganders have been enjoying visits to the Clinton River Trail in Oakland County. But this trail isn’t just your average hiking path — instead, it runs along an abandoned rail line for over 16 miles and offers an exciting experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
The Clinton River Trail traces a now-defunct rail line once known as the Michigan Air Line. As its name suggests, the railroad once carried trains along the Clinton River, which stretches through southeastern Michigan.
The CRT is a lengthy trail, stretching through several Detroit suburbs including Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Sylvan Lake, and Rochester Hills. Eventually, developers hope to connect the CRT with a larger cross-state trail that will extend from Port Huron to South Haven.
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The trail’s unique story means that it also has a unique terrain: much of the trail is unpaved, while other areas consist of limestone gravel and pavement. Bicyclists should use caution when riding over the trail’s bumpier spots.
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Visitors will pass through tunnels, over bridges, and along a 4-mile sidewalk bypass. In 2015, a "HAWK" beacon was installed at one of the trail’s most traffic-heavy crossings, making it a safer location for hikers and bikers.
Near the Adams Road segment of the trail in Auburn Hills, visitors will be greeted by "Mastodon Crossing" signs — this is the site where mastodon bones were unearthed in 2006.
When hiking or bicycling through the natural ambiance of the CRT, it’s tough to imagine a loud train car screeching by. This gorgeous trail stands out as an testament to Michigan’s ability to meld the past, the present, the natural, and the manmade.
Have you visited the Clinton River Trail? Tell us about your favorite CRT section in the comments below!
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