McCoy's Creek Trail, MI

Beginning (or ending) in the northeastern end of Buchannon, MI, the McCoy's Creek Trail roughly parallels McCoy Creek for the first 1.5 miles. Starting out on a sidewalk, you cross numerous streets and have to be on the lookout for white arrows or "trail" stenciled on the concrete so as not to go astray.

A little past the the library and the town's amphitheater, you'll leave the sidewalk and start walking on a wide, flat, paved trail that's reminiscent of a "Rail-to-Trail" path. You'll no longer be able to see McCoy's Creek at this point, but the shade and trees offer habitat for squirrels, deer, chipmunks, and numerous birds. Eventually you'll come to a small loop at the southwestern end of the trail where you'll find a tall, wooden viewing deck overlooking a 65-acre fen, owned by the Michigan chapter of the Nature Conservancy.

Along the way there are 12 "points of interest" including a waterfall, a wall that offers a detailed account of the history of Buchannon, a working mill, a winery, and 20 fitness stations. Return the way you came.

Note
Dogs must be on a leash and bicycles are permitted the entire length of the trail.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2018-06-02 Steph_and_Blake